Asia Fruit Logistica preview: Americas, Part Two

Novem

As a first-time exhibitor at Asia Fruit Logistica, the British Columbia-based Novem will promote its newly launched “Big Air Foods” brand of freeze-dried fruit snacks at the Hong Kong show. “We are so proud of this launch and thought it would be special to announce it at Asia Fruit Logistica 2024,” says spokesperson Bri Sauve. Big Air Foods freeze-dried snacks are offered in apple, blueberry, strawberry, cherry and a variety of other fruits. According to Sauve, Novem’s specialised processing equipment ensures that its products have a long shelf-life without compromising flavour and nutritional value.

Washington Apple Commission

Aa a 20-year participant at Asia Fruit Logistica the Washington Apple Commission (WAC) clearly sees plenty of value in exhibiting in Hong Kong. “We have found Asia Fruit Logistica to be a key place to meet current and potential Washington apple importers, wholesalers, and retailers from Asia, India, and the Middle East,” says spokesperson Jennie Strong. This year, the WAC will be showcasing the state’s leading varieties including Cosmic Crisp and Honeycrisp along with many proprietary club varieties. “Cosmic Crisp, our most recent release, is increasing in production, which will continue to climb annually. Last season was the second largest Washington apple crop in history but we are hoping to see a ‘return to normal’ crop size this year.”

Chelan Fresh Marketing

According to Chelan Fresh spokesperson Lorinda Oscarson, SugarBee apples will be on display at its Asia Fruit Logistica booth for the first time this year. “SugarBee is a new variety that has been grown in the US for the last four years,” Oscarson says. “The sales desks of CMI Orchards, Sage Fruit as well as Chelan Fresh are excited to bring this apple to the attendees of Asia Fruit Logistica.” According to Oscarson SugarBee apples are now available year-round. “We think the sweet but complex flavour profile and the crisp nature of this premium apple will be well received by consumers in Asia and the Middle East,” Oscarson says.

US Highbush Blueberry Council

This is the US Highbush Blueberry Council’s (USHBC) third consecutive year exhibiting at Asia Fruit Logistica. “We are looking to promote the many ways USHBC serves as the global leader and one-stop shop for blueberry inspiration and support,” says director of communications Kristy Babb. “Asia Fruit Logistica provides us with a great way to inform and educate participants about the extensive work the USHBC does to drive demand for all forms of US highbush blueberries with consumers, foodservice operators, food manufacturers and retailers around the world. This includes providing insightful research, connecting buyers to suppliers, supporting R&D teams, and offering full-service assistance for blueberry-based products and menu items.”

California Fresh Fruit Association

California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) will exhibit for the second time this year and use the opportunity to continue to boost its networks in the Asian market. “We find great value in the number of attendees from all over Asia coming to the show at a time where we can showcase California stonefruit,” says spokesperson Caroline Stringer. The association will showcase its primary fresh categories peaches, plums and nectarines following recent news the stonefruit has gained access to Vietnam (see p12, Asiafruit July/August 2024). “California peaches and nectarines were just granted market access to Vietnam – a desirable market for California’s premium peaches and nectarines,” says Stringer.

Sekoya

This is the second year running blueberry varietal breeder, Sekoya, will exhibit at Asia Fruit Logistica. “Last year we did a ‘try out’ to better understand the potential of blueberries in Asia and get a better understanding of the Asian consumer,” says value chain and retail manager Hans Liekens. “(This year) we will show all Sekoya varieties, both high chill and low chill, which creates the opportunity to have fruit available for 52 weeks.” Sekoya will also display its new blueberry dispenser. “It’s an ‘eye catcher’ and a new way of selling snacking blueberries in a hygienic, convenient and fun way,” Liekens says.