European growers are increasing their role in supplying kiwifruit as part of an expanded production network aimed at maintaining year-round availability. Production in Italy, France, and Greece has grown from 500 hectares to 7,500 hectares, with about 1,200 European growers now involved. The program includes 170 hectares of the Ruby Red variety and a European health claim for green kiwifruit.
At the EU/NZ Business Summit in Auckland, company chief executive Jason Te Brake outlined the long-running relationship with European partners. He noted that New Zealand kiwifruit has been exported to Europe for more than 60 years and that one of the original importers remains a partner. The first European office opened in Antwerp 35 years ago, with partnerships with Italian growers beginning 25 years ago.
"If we look at our business today in Europe, we've got more than 150 people that we employ throughout Europe, we've got seven offices and 1200 growers producing kiwifruit for us," Te Brake said.
He stated that European production is used to complement the New Zealand supply once the domestic season ends. "Being able to produce kiwifruit in New Zealand, we have a limited shelf life, so we can produce it for about eight months of the year, and then we use our Italian, Greek, and French growers to be able to complement our supply."
European-grown kiwifruit is also exported to North America and Asia during periods when New Zealand fruit is not available. Te Brake described the arrangement as a partnership across the regions.
Work is also underway to reduce emissions within the global supply chain. One in three New Zealand-grown kiwifruit will be exported to Europe this year, equal to about 75 million trays. Te Brake said shipping remains the largest component of the supply chain footprint and is an area of focus. The company is in discussions with shipping and logistics operators about a possible green shipping corridor into Antwerp.
Te Brake added that health attributes remain a priority. "We want to make sure our brand is healthy for our consumers and is really founded on natural nutrition and health," he said.
Source: RuralNews
