Rob Hollier, the domestic representative on the Summerfruit NZ Board, has been out and about talking to a lot of growers and the common theme is that we have a fantastic crop this year.
This is a chance for New Zealand summerfruit to make a statement this 2020-21 season on the domestic retail scene. Last season proved what fantastic taste does to get consumers back for more.
Size, colour and, most importantly taste, will be needed to help sell our crop this season. New improved varieties will also be a key to ‘Growing the fruit basket’ this summer.
We all have a BIG part to play in the supply chain in making sure we supply quality fruit that’s eating awesome, as the repeat purchase from the consumer is going to be very important to the success of the year.
Labour may become a pressure point and you may be faced with decisions on what to pick versus what to leave behind in the orchard, so please talk to your marketer when trying to navigate through those decisions. Just like the export crop, getting the best quality to market gives the greatest opportunity to satisfy customers and deliver sustainable returns.