More than 90 per cent vote to increase global production of SunGold over next six years
New Zealand kiwifruit growers have voted overwhelmingly to support the expansion of Zespri Global Supply (ZGS), approving the allocation of up to 420ha of new SunGold plantings per year over six years across Italy, France, Japan, South Korea and Greece.
Zespri said the result follows an extensive period of discussion to design a resolution that growers supported, and that would enable Zespri to lift supply in line with forecast demand in the context of intensifying competition and an increasingly dynamic category.
CEO, Jason Te Brake, commented: “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.
“The outlook for Zespri Kiwifruit is positive. I’ve spent a lot of 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 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 per cent support (by individual votes and by fruit weight) for it to be successful. The resolution was supported by 90.6 per cent of growers who voted, and 93.29 per cent 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 per cent grower turnout by entity and almost 85 per cent by production which shows how engaged growers have been in this process,” Te Brake added.
The result comes towards the end of a strong season for Zespri, with a record 190mn-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 are at record levels for Green and Organic Green on the back of improved yields while maintaining strong value in the market.
Zespri said the allocation and planting of the additional SunGold hectares will begin in early 2025.
