South African consumers warm to kiwifruit

It is almost kiwifruit season in South Africa and local producers will be ready to harvest from the beginning of May. Over the years kiwis have become increasingly popular, not only in the hospitality industry but for home use as well. This increased awareness of kiwifruit is due to promotions and marketing by means of wet demos and in-store promotions.

"Kiwi production has always been good in South Africa even though in the past there was not a huge demand for the fruit. This has changed in recent years and demand has definitely increased, especially as the consumer is realising what amazing health benefits they contain," says John Rahme, from Kiwi King South Africa. "Kiwi King together with RSA Market Agents have worked hard on the market to change the consumers buying patterns for kiwis from a need-to-have to a must-have purchase," added John Rahme.

South Africa does not produce large volumes of kiwifruit, and currently is not in the top ten of world producers. As a result, kiwis are imported from Italy and Greece in the Northern Hemisphere and New Zealand-Zespri in the Southern Hemisphere to cope with the local demand. Prices are determined by the market but unfortunately the fluctuation in the Rand can and has affected the price of imported kiwifruit.

Last year eighty containers were received from New Zealand-Zespri and from European countries by Kiwi King. This year volumes are a little lower from New Zealand-Zespri but similar volumes are expected from Italy and Greece so Kiwi King will again continue to give their clients the same service and quality, twelve months of the year.

For more information:
John Rahme
Kiwi King
jonrahme@tiscali.co.za
Office: +27 116 131 663