New Zealand kiwifruit marketer is to relocate northern European hub to Vlissingen amid concerns over recent disruption
Kiwifruit marketer Zespri will no longer use the Belgian port of Zeebrugge as its entry port into northern Europe as of 2028, and is expected to move instead to Vlissingen in the Netherlands.
The news, which was announced on Friday, signals the end of a partnership with logistics company Belgian New Fruit Wharf that stretches back to the mid-1980s, and one which today sees more than two billion individual pieces of New Zealand-grown kiwifruit pass through the port each year.
The company explained that recent disruption, including pilot strikes and other interruptions, were a key factor in the decision.
Zespri’s marketing manager for Europe, Nele Moorthamers, said in a statement: “Following an extensive review of our European network and in preparation for the expiry of the current contract in 2028, Zespri will transition to a structure comprising three central hubs: in the Netherlands, Italy, and Spain.”
In the statement, Zespri said: “We appreciate the significant contribution BNFW has made over the years and recognise what we have achieved together.”
It added: “We will work closely with BNFW to ensure business continuity until 2028. We consider this to be the best decision to further support Zespri’s growth in Europe and to deliver strong results for both customers and growers.”
