Global leader Zespri drives double-digit growth and revs its engines for IFPA 2025
New Zealand-based Zespri is celebrating record-breaking results this season, cementing its role as the global leader in the kiwifruit category.
Despite economic headwinds and stiff competition, overall category growth has surged by 32 percent in dollar sales and 28 percent in volume, far outpacing the total growth of the fruit department. The company continues to hold the #1 kiwi brand position, outselling the next competitor by more than four times.
“Our 2025 results prove the power of our portfolio and retail partnerships,” said Darren LaMothe, General Manager, North America. “By investing in distribution and shopper programs, we’re not just growing Zespri—we’re growing the entire kiwifruit category.”
The company's SunGold Kiwi remains the most significant driver, posting a 36 percent increase in dollar sales and a 30 percent hike in volume compared to last year.
“This momentum sets the stage for us to more than double the market over the next five years,” added LaMothe.
The return of Zespri's KiwiBrothers
The grower and distributor boosted both awareness and purchase through strong retail partnerships, standout in-store displays, and packaging featuring the iconic KiwiBrothers™, along with robust marketing programs, which created a highly successful season for Zespri's kiwifruit.
With nearly one billion digital impressions, two million samples distributed, and 50,000 in-store displays, the campaign successfully enticed consumers to join the KiwiBrothers and taste the obsession for themselves.
“Our KiwiBrothers did it again!” said LaMothe. "We’re seeing a surge in engagement. People love spotting our mascots at events, catching them on the big screen, and then discovering them in-store. It’s a fun, memorable way to connect with our audience and keep the brand top of mind."
3, 2, 1... IFPA!
The kiwifruit powerhouse will bring this same bold energy to the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) Global Show, now in its eighth year of exhibiting.
At booth #1891, visitors can experience Zespri Kiwifruit samples, a new interactive, show-stopping giveaway activity, and a walk-through of their “dream store” experience while meeting with Zespri’s global and regional teams to reflect on 2025 and strategize for 2026.
“We're anticipating another highly engaging booth with non-stop traffic,” explains Bianca Fiedler, Trade Marketing Director, North America. “It’s exciting to meet with retail partners during the show to help unlock new ideas and start planning for the upcoming season.”
The company is the event sponsor of the Breakfast and General Session, where attendees can taste kiwi-inspired dishes and see Zespri featured on the big screen, and take a picture with the KiwiBrothers.
Zespri will also bring its energy, creative costumes, and refreshing SunGold Kiwi samples to the 5K race sponsored by the company.
Zespri invites all attendees and industry friends to connect at IFPA and learn more about their merchandising opportunities and how the company is shaping the future of the kiwi category.
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