Kiwifruit Marketing business updates

Western Fresh adds growers

Madera, Calif.-based Western Fresh Marketing has added a couple of growers, which could lead to a substantial increase in kiwifruit volume in the coming years, said Chris Kragie, import and deciduous sales manager.

This year, the added production will mean the addition of 60,000 20-pound cartons to Western Fresh’s normal output of 500,000 cartons, Kragie said. In coming years, it could mean as much as 250,000 more cartons.

Wild River upgrades packing

Marysville, Calif.-based Wild River Marketing Inc. has enhanced its packing facility this year, said Mike Noland, president.

“We expect to pack most of the 2017 crop of Wild River kiwifruit on our new sizing machine that is equipped with both weight and optic capabilities,” he said.

Zespri hires general manager

New Zealand-based Zespri recently had a traditional Maori blessing for its North America office in Newport Beach, Calif.

Zespri CEO Lain Jager and director Bruce Cameron, along with the Newport Beach Mayor Kevin Muldoon, were in attendance, said Sarah Deaton, marketing manager for North America.

Zespri also has appointed Ben Hughes to a newly created role of general manager for the Americas.

“He will be focused on the business structure and building the team to help our customers grow their business and developing local supply options to become a 12-month brand,” Deaton said.