After 18 months as the global ambassador for Rockit Apple, Black Cap Kane Williamson is extending his partnership with the company and investing in the Longlands Rockit apple site just south of Hastings. His partnership with the company has led to inroads in the Indian and subcontinental markets, with efforts in other cricket-loving nations set for the remainder of 2022 and 2023.
“This is an awesome product, grown and marketed by great people to work alongside. I love what Rockit has done with its world-leading brand, along with the technology that goes into growing each apple – from geo-mapping trees, so that correct nutrients are delivered at the right time, to the robotics in the packhouse, ” said Williamson.
He has participated in digital marketing campaigns, shared apples with his teammates and driven omnichannel sales, social media growth and brand awareness.
“From the moment we first met with Kane, it was clear his ambassadorship meant more to him than an emblem on a bat. Kane’s spent time with us in Hawke’s Bay, learning firsthand about the innovation we’re rolling out across our orchards, and into our packhouse. He’s taken time to ask questions and understand how we’re growing our fruit and what the company’s doing to support our orchardists, along with our goals and aspirations as a brand. And he has skin in the game,” said Mark O’Donnell, Rockit Global Limited CEO.
“Of course, many of our growers, our board and our global team are cricket mad. So having Kane on board with Rockit is a real delight for them too, and we’re all very proud of the association,” said Julian Smith, Rockit General Manager Global Marketing.
“The fact that it’s a healthy product that my family, friends and I love is great. But to also be involved in the journey, from growing Rockit™ apple in our orchards, right through to being in partnership and sharing this awesome product with the world, there’s something kind of special in that,” said Williamson.
