Zespri™ Kiwifruit delivered record-breaking results this season. Despite economic headwinds and stiff competition from other fruit categories this summer, the company fueled double-digit growth with an earlier start to the season, expanded distribution of Zespri green, organic, and Zespri RubyRed™ and continued strong consumer demand for Zespri SunGold™ kiwifruit.
Since the season began, overall category growth has surged by +32 percent in dollar sales and +28 percent in volume–outpacing the total growth of the fruit department.¹ The company continues to hold the #1 kiwi brand position. "By investing in distribution and shopper programs, we're growing the entire kiwifruit category," said Darren LaMothe, general manager, North America. Zespri SunGold Kiwi remains the biggest driver, posting +36 percent in dollar sales and +30 percent in volume versus last year.² "This momentum sets the stage for us to more than double the market over the next five years."
Zespri boosted both awareness and purchase through retail partnerships, in-store displays and packaging featuring the Zespri KiwiBrothers™, along with marketing programs. This year marked the second season for the KiwiBrothers. They continued their mission to spread awareness of Zespri kiwifruit with a Hollywood-inspired campaign of trailers and cinematic assets that sparked consumer engagement nationwide.
© Zespri
"We're seeing a surge in engagement. People love spotting our mascots at events, catching them on the big screen, and then discovering them in-store. It's a fun, memorable way to connect with our audience and keep the brand top of mind," said LaMothe.
The company will bring this same energy to the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) Global Show in its eighth year of exhibiting. Visitors can experience fruit samples, a new interactive giveaway activity, and a walk-through of their "dream store" experience while meeting with the company's global and regional teams to reflect on 2025 and strategize for 2026. "We anticipate another highly engaging booth with non-stop traffic," said Bianca Fiedler, Zespri's trade marketing director, North America.
The company is also sponsoring the Breakfast and General Session, where attendees can taste kiwi-inspired dishes and see the company on the big screen. The Zespri KiwiBrothers will be outside of the breakfast room for a meet-and-greet. The company will also bring creative costumes, and SunGold Kiwi samples to the Zespri-sponsored 5K race.
The company invites show attendees to visit its booth, #1891, to learn more. For a scheduled meeting, reach out to a Zespri representative in advance of the show.
¹ Circana Total US MULO+- CY 2024 (WE 08/10/25)
² Circana Total US MULO+- CY 2024 (WE 08/10/25)
For more information:
Zespri
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www.zespri.com