Post-harvest solutions that allow produce to stay fresh during long transit times have been around for quite some time and continue to gain interest. "We're seeing growers and shippers from around the globe benefit from our plant-based protective solution," says Denise Junqueiro with Apeel Sciences. To support these growers using Apeel's technology, the company has been enhancing its in-country representation. "No matter where they are based, we are committed to helping growers ship fruit with confidence, increase their market share and give them access to markets they wouldn't have access to otherwise. To show our commitment, we are building in-country teams in our key markets."
South America presence
Outside North America, Apeel has a team in Europe with representatives based in Spain and the U.K. In addition, there is a team in South Africa and most recently, the team in Latin America has expanded. Luis Diaz heads up the team in Latin America and has been instrumental in building up Apeel's business in Brazil. Most recently, the company further enhanced its presence in Brazil, Peru, and Chile with two new appointments. Vinicius Biasibetti is country sales manager for Brazil, and Renzo Ostolaza will serve as country sales manager for Peru and Chile. "With these appointments, we hope to expand our footprint in these important South American markets."
South American growers ship their produce around the world with North America, Europe, and Asia being key destinations. "These are all long-haul destinations and growers see the value in using Apeel as it prevents dehydration and shrink, resulting in produce arriving in optimal condition." While South America is a basket for many different fruits and vegetables, citrus is one of the key products for Apeel, followed by avocados and other commodities currently in pilot R&D programs. "Right now, there is a lot of momentum around limes, resulting in higher demand for our technology."
Value exceeds cost
All in all, using Apeel's technology increases the percentage of sellable fruit. The application supports 10 to 15 percent more fruit and prevents growers from having to overpack. In addition, rejection rates are lower. "While there is a cost involved in using our technology, it is lower than the value it generates. It's a very marginal add-on but creates a lot of efficiencies within the supply chain," Junqueiro mentioned. "In the past our costs were a lot higher, but due to the changes in our operational efficiencies we've been able to reduce prices and the value outweighs the marginal input costs of using our technology."
Fruit Attraction and IFPA Global Show
In October, Apeel Sciences will be exhibiting at two international trade shows: Fruit Attraction in Madrid as well as IFPA's Global Produce & Floral Show in Atlanta. "We've adjusted our old model and fine-tuned our processes. We are excited for people to experience Apeel differently compared to the past and invite visitors to stop by our booth." In Madrid, Apeel can be found in Hall 3, stand 3A26. In Atlanta, the company will be exhibiting in booth B1915.
For more information:
Denise Junqueiro
Apeel Sciences
[email protected]
www.appelsciences.com