Despite facing numerous challenges, including adverse weather conditions, Zespri reported a 2% increase in global kiwifruit sales, amounting to $3.99 billion for the 2023-24 season. This growth in revenue is attributed to enhanced fruit quality and robust pricing strategies throughout the season. However, the volume of kiwifruit sold saw a decrease of 10.5%, totaling 164.2 million trays, down from 183.5 million trays in the previous season. The net profit after tax for Zespri stood at $173.3 million, a decline from $238.7 million in 2022/23, primarily due to diminished licence revenue.
Grower returns varied across different kiwifruit varieties. Producers of Zespri green, Zespri green 14, and SunGold experienced an increase in returns per hectare, whereas organic green and organic SunGold growers saw a decrease. Returns for Zespri Ruby Red were similar to the previous season. Zespri's CEO, Dan Mathieson, highlighted the industry's efforts to enhance fruit quality and the strong consumer demand for Zespri Kiwifruit as positive indicators for the future.
Source: ruralnewsgroup.co.nz