Since joining Apple and Pear Australia (APAL) two and a half years ago, Claire Fitchett has been working to instil an export culture in the industry in her position as market development manager.
Now, she is looking forward to putting the policy into practice in her new role as international trade development manager at grower-packer-marketer Montague Fresh.
Fitchett finishes with Apple and Pear Australia today (19 December) to take up the new position at Montague Fresh, and she is excited by the challenge.
“Horticulture is an industry I am very passionate about and I believe has a very bright future,” said Fitchett. “I am looking forward to working in the commercial space in a great team at Montague Fresh and practising what I’ve been preaching, by exporting more fruit.”
Fitchett told Asiafruit she looked forward to continuing to work with APAL and stakeholders in Australia’s apple and pear industry in her new role.
“I have really enjoyed working with Australian apple and pear growers as they explore new export opportunities in South East Asia,” she said. “A real highlight for me has been working with a range of very professional importers and retailers in Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia to promote high-quality Australian apples and pears to consumers.”
While Australia’s apple and pear industry faces a number of challenges to develop exports in a highly competitive marketplace, Fitchett said she is confident that the industry can build on its recent gains.
“Our growers are committed to delivering high-quality fruit and I believe the industry will continue to increase exports,” affirmed Fitchett. “With a range of new varieties coming to the market, it’s an exciting time to be involved in exporting Australian apples and pears.”
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