NZ New Zealand Arguta kiwiberry lunchbox

New Zealand horticulture group Freshmax is putting its weight behind supply chain development work for kiwiberries into Asian and European markets, working with crown researcher Plant & Food Research.

Improved storage techniques to extend shelf life and quality are the focus of the project.

The results will be shared by Plant & Food Research with companies who have planted the researcher’s proprietary kiwiberry varieties, for which Freshmax is the exclusive New Zealand licence holder.

Freshmax is also bolstering is kiwiberry business with the appointment of a new staff member. Former grower Rodger Bayly will join the Freshmax team to aid Tracey Burns in development of the kiwiberry category, the company said in a statement.