Grape import programme increases by 44 per cent following integration with Dole Diversified North America, adding 1.25mn boxes from Peru and Chile
Leading fresh produce group Oppy has revealed that it is expanding its grape import programme, despite the decline seen in Peruvian grape exports to North America early in the season.
The group said it is ”charting a different course” thanks to its long-term supply base and the advantages of aligning with Dole Diversified North America (DDNA) in October 2025.
The strategic integration of DDNA brings an additional 1.25mn boxes of grapes to Oppy’s programme from Peru and Chile, up 44 per cent over the prior year.
Oppy ranks among the top ten importers of Peruvian grapes into the US and Canada.
“This is a milestone season for Oppy,” said executive director of grapes and stonefruit Bill Poulos.
“By expanding our programme through Dole, we’re not only increasing volume, but adding depth and resilience to our supply.
”We have exceptional grapes coming from Peru, and our team’s visit to Ica in November confirmed the fruit is outstanding,” Poulos explained.
”We are very happy with the quality, and we’re set up for a strong season.”
This year will also see an influx of high-demand varieties, including Sun World variety AutumnCrisp arriving from Peru, followed by availability from Chile through the end of April.
“As the import grape season gets into full stride, the market is primed for promotable green and red grapes,” noted director of domestic grapes and sales manager Marc Serpa
”Shoppers are eager for grapes with green stems, great sizing and outstanding flavour profiles coming from Sun World and BloomFresh.”
Oppy expects ”excellent availability” across a wide spectrum of colours and varieties, including red varieties like Allison, Jack’s Salute and Scarlotta Seedless, and green varieties like AutumnCrisp, Timpson, Sweet Globe and Great Green.
“Our strategic grower-partners are rated very highly for the quality of their AutumnCrisp, and have the acreage and scale to deliver more than last season,” said Oppy’s vice president of South American operations David Nelley.
”Red and green fresh crop grapes will be available in volume from mid-January till the end of February.
“With trusted brands in our portfolio including Dole, Ocean Spray and Sun Grape, Oppy’s grape programme offers consistency and quality shoppers will be looking for at shelf,” he added.
