When Enza Zaden entered the watermelon market seven years ago, it did so with the intention of doing things differently, the company says. As the Dutch company looks ahead to 2024 and beyond, it plans to add to its watermelon portfolio with more top crimsons, minis, specialty melons and pollinizers, according to a news release.
From a foundation of premium genetics and a talented team, Enza Zaden has focused on understanding the market and the distinctions of regional production areas, the release said. The company says a combination of speed to market, outstanding fruit quality and taste, as well as understanding its customers’ needs, has earned the trust of growers, shippers, dealers and retailers.
With the success of dark mottled striped varieties such as cracker jack, Rio Grande and red garnet, new additions — including a seedless crimson to be released early in 2024 — will continue to push the boundaries of expectation, the company says.
“We’re winning customers with the strength of our portfolio, the combination of our fruit quality and taste, our reliability as a supplier and the depth of our awareness of customer needs in all major production areas,” Justin Lanier, product manager for watermelon, melon and summer squash, said in the release. “We don’t need to overpromise, because we’re confident about what we can and will do to add value and improve operations. Customers appreciate our innovation and enjoy the experience of working with us as much as we enjoy working with them.”
The cross-functional watermelon team includes dedicated regional sales representatives, research and development experts, logistics specialists and customer service professionals that all play a role in delivering the “refreshing” experience of working with Enza Zaden, the release said.
“The quality and consistency of our offering demonstrates our investment in both the program and the talented people that make it happen,” Ian Botes, commercial director, U.S., said in the release. “Together we take immense pride in having one of the best watermelon programs in the country, and we look forward to making it even better as we work to complete our assortment with segment leaders.”
