“We recognize the different specifications our customers are looking for”

Grape harvest in California’s San Joaquin Valley started the first week of July and will continue until the end of November. Sutherland, S.A. works with about ten different grape growers-shippers in the region and supports them with packing and exporting grapes to different destinations around the globe. “We have been involved in packing and shipping grapes for about eight years,” says Tad Brusseau with Sutherland, S.A. “From the start, we have been able to grow export volumes by 40 to 50 percent every year,” he added.

This season, Sutherland exports 28 different grape varieties including many new varieties: Sweet Sapphire (pictured right), Candy Heart and Jack’s Salute. More well-known varieties such as Scarlet Royal and Red Globe are also part of the portfolio. “One of the reasons our grape program is so successful is that we recognize the different specifications our customers are looking for,” mentioned Brusseau. “We spend a lot of time on making sure our customers receive exactly what they ordered, and we pack according to their specifications.” One grape variety may get shipped to several different countries, depending on size, color and firmness.

The Asian continent is Sutherland’s number one destination for grapes. China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam as well as India are important destinations. In addition, California grapes make their way into Australia and to a lesser extent Europe.

“This season’s fruit quality is fantastic,” commented Brusseau. It hasn’t been as unseasonably hot and as a result, California’s grape volume is expected to be up this year. “Last year was more challenging,” he said. “It was very hot and we also had a day of rain in the middle part of the season. The hot weather was hard on the younger vines with some of them just being two or three years old. More pleasant temperatures result in better quality. Besides, the younger vines are a year older and a year stronger.”

In partnership with a California grape grower, Sutherland is building an indoor grape packing house that will be operational as soon as next season. “Usually, grapes are packed in an outdoor environment, but the advantage of an indoor packing house is that we will be able to control the climate and ensure a longer post-harvest life,” shared Brusseau. “Being able to maintain the cold chain will also enable us to pack grapes in our premium Smiling Buddha label.” 

Please visit Sutherland, S.A. at Asia Fruit Logistica, Hall 3b, booth D26.

Contact:

Tad Brusseau

Tel: (+1) 559-304-0286