Zespri boxes

Zespri International has been recognised for its comprehensive logistics and distribution strategy in China after picking up the award for the Best Logistics Strategy for China at the New Zealand-China Trade Association award ceremony.

The group was handed the award for a strategy that incorporates a number of different partners including local New Zealand kiwifruit growers, packhouses, coolstores, shipping and transport companies, and a network of wholesale and retail distribution outlets in China.

'These awards recognise the value of trade partnerships with China and foster stronger ties between our two countries. It is an honour and a privilege for Zespri to be recognised for our work in China,' said group director corporate and grower services Carol Ward.

'China currently accounts for six per cent of Zespri kiwifruit sales and is a key market for growth,' she added. 'Based on current growth rates, it is realistic to anticipate that within a 10-year timeframe, China and Hong Kong could form up to 20 per cent of our total business.'

The efficiency of Zespri's Chinese strategy has already reaped rewards for the group and its growers, with sales up 28 per cent in 2008/09 on the previous season.

'Zespri's success in China and the recognition of that success by the New Zealand China Trade Association Award is reflective of both the strength of our current marketing structure and Zespri's strong performance within that structure,' said Peter Ombler, president of New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc.