Collaboration with Italian importer represents kiwifruit marketer’s first foray into European ready-to-eat category
Kiwifruit marketer Zespri and Italian importer Spreafico have launched a new line of fresh-cut SunGold kiwifruit packs.
The 150g product marks Zespri’s first commercial foray into the ready-to-eat fresh fruit segment in Europe, and is designed to boost sales among consumers looking for the extra convenience of pre-cut kiwifruit.
Spreafico, which has been a long-term distributor of Zespri-branded kiwifruit for many years, has invested in cutting technology and packaging processes in recent years to help capitalise on new opportunities in the market.
“With this new product, we aim to combine the distinctive expertise of two leading companies in the fruit and vegetable sector, offering the market a high-value offering that combines premium quality, innovation, and convenience,” said Raffaele Spreafico, CEO of Spreafico Francesco & F.lli.
“Our experience in the fresh-cut market, combined with the strength of a sales and distribution network built over decades, allows us to fully leverage an iconic product like the Zespri SunGold kiwifruit, expanding its consumption opportunities and bringing it even closer to people’s daily needs.”
Emanuele De Santis, marketing manager for Italy and Mediterranean countries at Zespri, commented: “For Zespri, this collaboration represents a targeted co-branding initiative, designed to strengthen the relevance of Zespri SunGold and encourage its use through a high-service format.
“The initiative allows us to showcase the variety in a complementary consumption context, leveraging the strength of the brand to support an additional product in the Spreafico range.”
