News & Analysis | FRUITNET CITRUS CONGRESS 25 & 26 MARCH 2025

Fruitbox 113 · Franka Rodriguez, Aldi South Group

Franka talks to Chris about the extension of Aldi South Group’s ethical sourcing model into avocados, with more categories on the horizon

Vanguard Direct expands into citrus imports
Group will source mandarins and oranges from growers in South America, Egypt, Israel, Morocco and South Africa
Further growth in Spanish fresh produce imports
New figures for 2024 show year-on-year increase in both volume and value
Leanri open days “a resounding success”
Growers in Seville and Castellon had the opportunity to visit local production sites to learn all about the mandarin variety
Australian horticulture production value reaches A$17bn
Annual Horticulture Statistics Handbook shows total production value up 4.3 per cent year-on-year
Citrus industry reveals true cost of South African port inefficiencies
Study says the cost of inefficient logistics to the country’s citrus industry was a ”staggering” R5.27bn in 2024 alone
Delassus pursues B-Corp certification
Moroccan fruit and veg grower demonstrates commitment to social and environmental responsibility with new accreditation

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