Primland welcomes smooth transition from North to South

French kiwifruit marketer Primland is setting its sights on Southern Hemisphere production, as the Northern Hemisphere season comes to an early close.

The company’s Oscar Greece campaign ended positively, while French kiwifruit will be marketed until the end of May.

Volumes are slightly higher this season for yellow-fleshed Oscar Gold kiwifruit from South Africa, Primland stated, providing continuity following the end of the Northern Hemisphere yellow kiwifruit season.

“The partnership forged with South African producers over the last few years has allowed us to reinforce both the volumes and the quality of this premium product,” the company said. “Cultivated in strict compliance with the Oscar specifications and in accordance with the brand’s values, this kiwifruit meets the requirements of both customers and consumers who are looking for a kiwifruit of great flavour.”

Primland expects to distribute 45,000 trays of Oscar Gold from South Africa. Meanwhile, Oscar Green kiwifruit from Chile is reaching maturity on the trees, with average sizes looking good at around 100g.

“Conducive production conditions resulted in superior fruit quality,” the company revealed. “Indeed, plants enjoyed good irrigation conditions. While water availability remains a recurring threat to global agriculture, it was not a major issue this season.”

Despite a predicted drop in Chilean production of around 15 per cent, Primland said the early close to the Northern Hemisphere season will ensure a smooth transition.

“Furthermore, the impact of the logistical disruption caused by the health crisis is gradually wearing off,” the company added. “A return to normal maritime traffic, essential for this provenance, can now be expected.”

Primland’s traditional Oscar Hayward variety is available in both conventional and organic, while the company’s Oscar Gold plantations in Chile are apparently developing well and will be marketed in the coming years.

Through social media and partnerships with influencers, Oscar Kiwi continues to develop its brand awareness, with dedicated programmes planned for Latin America and Asia this season to promote the Oscar range at points of sale.