Zespri sets SunGold kiwifruit record in 2026

ORANGE COUNTY, CA (October 6, 2026) – Zespri’s BB #:197845 SunGold Kiwifruit reached an important milestone in the U.S. this season, surpassing 10 million tray equivalents, further demonstrating its continued growing demand with shoppers and retailers.

Kiwifruit remains one of the fastest-growing fruit categories in produce and has continued climbing within the fruit bowl as consumer demand for fresh, nutrient-dense fruit grows. Kiwifruit category sales continue to accelerate, with dollar sales up approximately 31% and volume sales up approximately 36% year-over-year, demonstrating strong consumer demand and category momentum.¹

“Zespri continues to outpace category growth, with brand sales increasing approximately 40% in dollars and 44% in volume,² reinforcing our leadership role in expanding the kiwi category,” explains Darren LaMothe, President, North America. “Our growth is on track to more than double the market in the next few years.”

Helping attract shoppers and grow the category, the KiwiBrothers increased awareness and interest through Zespri’s ‘Jam-Packed’ consumer campaign. Tapping into growing consumer interest in health and wellness, the campaign highlighted kiwifruit’s exceptional nutritional benefits, encouraging consumers to choose a fruit that delivers more nutrition in every bite.

Consumer interest was activated through sampling, retail programs, digital engagement, and shopper-focused initiatives, generating more than 1.5 billion impressions; distributing approximately 2.5 million kiwifruit samples; and supplying +30% more display units versus a year ago, attracting shoppers in-store by creating a destination.  

The season’s strong performance supports the ambitions of Zespri’s 2035 Strategy, launched this year to drive future growth and value creation. It is centered on growing the category alongside retail partners through increased consumer demand, expanded supply and innovation designed to keep shoppers coming back for more.

The strategy comes to life through Grown for Good, Zespri’s platform for creating healthier choices for consumers, reducing its environmental impact, and delivering long-term value and growth across the retail value chain.

“Zespri will showcase its growth strategy and Grown for Good brand platform at the International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce and Floral Show (IFPA) this year with a new booth design, fresh retail opportunities, and our tailored trade program designed to help retailers build excitement, increase shopper engagement and create additional opportunities for category growth,” said Laura Wood, director of trade marketing at Zespri.

The new Zespri booth #342 invites show attendees and industry partners to immerse themselves into a New Zealand kiwifruit orchard experience and discover what makes Zespri Kiwifruit so special. They will experience orchard-inspired storytelling as they sample delicious SunGold Kiwifruit.

Zespri merchandising displays and exciting booth giveaways will add to the energetic booth atmosphere that Zespri exemplifies every year.

“IFPA is the perfect opportunity for retailers to join the fun at our booth; connect with our team; discover what’s next for Zespri; and build plans that deliver growth and value in the upcoming season,” suggests Wood.

As the Welcome Reception sponsor, Zespri will kick off IFPA by bringing the beloved KiwiBrothers to the foyer for a meet-and-greet and attendees can enjoy delicious menu items featuring Zespri Kiwifruit. Zespri is also proud to sponsor the IFPA 5K race, with team members joining the fun in creative costumes as they run, cheer on participants, and celebrate the event’s spirit. After crossing the finish line, runners can refuel with a sweet, juicy SunGold Kiwifruit, packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

As the industry plans for next season, Zespri remains focused on expanding the kiwifruit category through innovation, increased consumer demand, and strong retail partnerships. IFPA attendees and industry partners are invited to visit Zespri’s booth #342 to meet with the team and learn more about merchandising opportunities; seasonal planning; and category growth initiatives for 2027, for both  Zespri Green Kiwifruit and Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit. For a scheduled meeting, reach out to your Zespri representative in advance of the show.

IFPA attendees and industry partners are invited to visit Zespri’s booth #342 to meet with the team and learn more about merchandising opportunities, seasonal planning, and category growth initiatives for 2027.

Data Sources: ^1,2Circana Total US MULO+ (2026 NZ Season WE 9/6/26)

ABOUT ZESPRI GROUP, LTD.

Zespri is 100 percent owned by current and former kiwifruit growers and has a global team of 850 based in Mount Maunganui and throughout Asia, Europe and the Americas. Our purpose is to help people, communities and the environment thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit, and we work with 2,800 growers in New Zealand and 1,500 growers offshore to provide consumers with fresh, healthy and great-tasting Zespri Green, SunGold Kiwifruit and Zespri Organic Kiwifruit. Please visit zespri.com/en.US.

Contact: Jill Netzel
JN Communications
jillnetz@ca.rr.com