Zespri kiwifruit sales soar 46 percent, leading the fastest-growing fruit category

Zespri’s 2025 kiwifruit season outperformed previous sales periods, reporting a retail sales increase of 46 percent year over year. 

“2025 was a milestone season for Zespri in the US, not just in terms of sales, but in how kiwifruit is performing within the fruit bowl,” said Darren LaMothe, the company's President for North America. “We saw exceptional results driven by expanded distribution, brand-led programs, and strong in-store execution.”

In a press release, the company attributed part of this success to its expanded retail network and continued marketing efforts, including “strong retail partnerships, standout in-store displays and packaging featuring the Zespri KiwiBrothers™.”

Additionally, the company says that expanded distribution of its Green and Organic kiwifruit, the West Coast trial of the RubyRed™ variety, and strong consumer demand for SunGold™ helped drive strong retail performance. 

Kiwifruit is the fastest-growing fruit category in the department, says the company, posting 34 percent dollar growth versus a year ago. Zespri is leading the category. 

“Entering the new season, we’re excited to reinforce what makes Zespri unique in produce: our kiwifruit ranks among the most nutritionally dense fruits, giving shoppers an easy and delicious way to boost their nutrition,” said Bianca Fiedler, the firm's Trade Marketing Director for North America.

Zespri’s banking on nutrition and wellness

The kiwi giant is gearing up for a bold new campaign that taps into what consumers need most today: real nourishment in a world crowded with empty-calorie snacks.

The 2026 marketing strategy features the now-produce-aisle staples KiwiBrothers, which the company says are “on a mission to show shoppers there’s a better way to fuel their full, fast-paced lives.” According to the company, the mascots’ impact was unmistakable in 2025, driving one billion digital impressions, two million samples, and 50,000 in‑store displays that contributed to a 21 percent sales lift for SunGold Kiwifruit. But not all is marketing, as this year Zespri also benefited from positive growing conditions in New Zealand, which rendered consistent product quality. 

The kiwifruit giant will be celebrating this momentum at Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure (SEPC) trade show in Orlando, Florida, from February 26 to March 1, at booth #825. The company will use the opportunity to preview its new campaign and present attendees with information about the merchandising shippers and bulk bins. 

*All images courtesy of Zespri.

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