New Zealand kiwifruit growers have overwhelmingly supported the expansion of Zespri Global Supply (ZGS).
Growers have approved the allocation of up to 420 additional hectares of Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit per year over six years across Italy, France, Japan, South Korea and Greece.
The producer vote result followed extensive discussions between Zespri and the industry to design a resolution that growers supported. This enabled Zespri to lift supply in line with forecast demand in the context of intensifying competition and an increasingly dynamic category.
“The process that has brought us to this point, along with the result of the vote, reflects the ability of our industry to come together on pressing issues with a focus on delivering strong grower returns and maintaining Zespri’s position as leaders in a competitive category,” said Zespri CEO, Jason Te Brake.
“The outlook for Zespri Kiwifruit is positive. I’ve spent much time in the markets with our customers in 2024. They want more of our fruit, and they want it all year. The result of this vote is crucial as we continue working towards a 12-month supply for key customers in key markets, filling more demand and supporting New Zealand grower returns into the future.”
Under the Kiwifruit Export Regulations, a producer vote must receive at least 75 percent support (by individual votes and fruit weight) from those who vote to be successful. The resolution was supported by 90.6 percent of growers who voted and 93.29 percent by fruit weight count.
“The benchmark for a successful producer vote is high, so the final count is an encouraging sign of the level of grower support for ZGS. We had almost 72 percent grower turnout by the entity and almost 85 percent by production, which shows how engaged growers have been in this process.”
The result has come towards the end of a strong season for Zespri, with a record 190-million tray crop volume delivered and November forecast Orchard Gate Returns (OGRs) up across almost all categories compared to the August forecast.
Forecast per hectare returns have been at record levels for Green and Organic Green due to improved yields while maintaining strong market value.
The allocation and planting of the additional SunGold hectares will begin in early 2025.
