Friday, 28 May 2021 09:05

Record result for Zespri

Written by  Sudesh Kissun
Zespri has marked a record season. Zespri has marked a record season.

Kiwifruit exporter Zespri has reported a record 2020-21 season, with bumper tray returns across all categories.

The farmer-owned company puts the solid result down to increased sales, the ongoing expansion of Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit production and great quality fruit underpinned by strong international demand.

The company’s financial results how total global revenue generated by fruit sales reached $3.58 billion, up 14% on the previous year, while total global operating revenue increased by 16% to $3.89 billion. Global sales volumes were up 10% on the previous year to 181.5 million trays.

Direct returns to the New Zealand industry increased 15% to $2.25 billion, overcoming uncertainty generated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earnings are spread through many regional communities including the Bay of Plenty, Northland, Nelson, Gisborne, and the Waikato, providing support to people, communities and businesses across the country.

There were strong returns on both a per tray and per hectare basis:

  • The average return for Zespri Green per tray increased to $7.51, with the average return per hectare reaching $76,722.
  • Zespri Organic Green reached an average return per tray of $10.53, and an average per hectare return of $66,453.
  • The average return for Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit increased to $12.46 per tray, and the average return per hectare was also a record $177,846.
  • Zespri Organic SunGold Kiwifruit saw a per tray return of $15.36, with the average per hectare return reaching $158,599.
  • Zespri Sweet Green achieved an average return per tray of $10.14 and an average return per hectare of $56,853.

Zespri chairman Bruce Cameron says the results reflect the continued strong demand for Zespri Kiwifruit around the world, boosted by the industry’s hard work and investment to increase demand and supply. 

“After a season where we were forced to make such significant changes to our operations with a focus on keeping our people safe, getting our fruit to the world, and continuing to invest for the future, it’s pleasing to see such encouraging results for the industry,” says Cameron.

“Demand for both Zespri Green and Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit increased and we’re pleased to see growing interest in our newest variety, Zespri Red, which is a testament to our industry’s ongoing investment in innovation and finding new ways to add value for New Zealand and our international production bases.”

Zespri’s chief executive officer Dan Mathieson says the 2020-21 season again showcased the strength of the Zespri brand in delivering value, attracting new consumers and supporting communities.

“The unity of our industry allowed us to respond effectively to incredibly difficult conditions around the world. That response was underpinned by our investment in the Zespri brand, the trust we have built up with our customers and consumers globally and the resilience and adaptability of our supply chain and sales and marketing teams.

More like this

Featured

'One more push' to eliminate FE

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is calling on farmers from all regions to take part in the final season of the Sheep Poo Study aiming to build a clearer picture of how facial eczema (FE) affects farms across New Zealand.

Winston Peters questions Fonterra divestment plan

Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has joined the debate around the proposed sale of Fonterra’s consumer and related businesses, demanding answers from the co-operative around its milk supply deal with the buyer, Lactalis.

National

Hort industry dishes out awards

Research and healthcare initiatives, leadership and dedication to the sector have been recognised in the 2025 Horticulture Industry Awards.

Machinery & Products

Yamaha acquires Robotics Plus

New Zealand based company Robotics Plus, a specialist in agricultural automation, has announced an agreement for it to be acquired…

Ecorobotix announces NZ dealership

Swiss-based Ecorobotix has announced its entry into the New Zealand market through a strategic partnership with Canterbury-based New Zealand Tractors.

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

Quid prod quo?

OPINION: Ageing lefty Chris Trotter reckons that the decision to delay recognition of Palestinian statehood is more than just a fit…

Deadwood

OPINION: A mate of yours truly recently met someone at a BBQ who works at a big consulting firm who spent…

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter