Capespan has announced it is to restrict the use of the Cape brand to products grown in South Africa and Namibia. However, according to Capespan's procurement director Martin Dunnett, this decision could reverse again in the future.
The decision means that New Zealand apples will not be marketed under the Cape brand during the forthcoming season. Fresh New Zealand CEO Lew Dagger said: "As one of the original supporters of the Cape brand in New Zealand I am disappointed with the decision but I do understand and respect the wishes of the South Africans."
Dunnett said that although Capespan have been looking at internationalising the brand, it has been decided that now is not the right time. "We recently reviewed our position and after discussions with our South African growers it was agreed that we could not move any further at this stage. Last season of our total exports from New Zealand approximately 30 per cent were under the Cape brand," he said. "We are looking to push further ahead with our juice range and sliced and diced offer, but for the time being fresh produce is on hold."
