Zespri has begun its 2024 sales season in China, introducing the KiwiBrothers mascots in local marketing efforts for the first time. The season started at Nangang Port, where the mascots welcomed the first shipment of New Zealand kiwifruit.
An official launch event was held in Shanghai, attended by Zespri CEO Dan Mathieson, Board Chairman Nathan Flowerday, former Chairman Bruce Cameron, and New Zealand officials including the Consul-General to Shanghai, Ardi Barnard.
Mathieson expressed excitement over the 40% increase in fruit for Greater China this season. He highlighted the importance of the Chinese market and the company’s efforts to deliver high-quality fruit as quickly as possible.
This season, over a third of Zespri SunGold will be sent to Greater China, up from 25% last year. Four Zespri charters have already unloaded three million trays in Shanghai.
The company is focused on maintaining fruit quality, with positive feedback from local customers on the first shipment. With more fruit available, marketing activities, including the KiwiBrothers, will support a strong start to the season.
Mathieson also mentioned the strong start to the season in other Asian markets, including Japan and Korea. The RubyRed kiwifruit, popular for its berry-like taste, is available for the first time this year in South Korea, Malaysia, and Hong Kong.
