BIG interview: Jingold on traceability, sustainability, and staying ahead in kiwifruit

Global fresh produce markets are entering a critical phase. Retailers are demanding consistent supply, transparent traceability, and branded products that stand out in crowded aisles, while consumers increasingly look for innovation, flavour, and health value. For kiwifruit, the pressure is even sharper: competition from new origins is rising, margins are tight, and differentiation through varieties and branding has become essential.

Jingold, one of the leading names in premium kiwifruit, is stepping into the 2025/26 campaign with confidence. Backed by a decade of steady expansion in production, the company is not only increasing volumes of gold, green, and red kiwifruit but also preparing to expand in new growing regions. With important international trade shows on the horizon, including Madrid, Jingold is ready to show partners how it plans to keep meeting — and exceeding — expectations.

We spoke to Moreno Armuzzi, Sales Manager, and Federico Milanese, Marketing Director at Jingold, about the company’s expectations for the 2025/26 kiwifruit campaign and future strategies for global growth.

What are your expectations for the 2025/26 kiwifruit campaign in terms of volumes, varieties, and quality?

Moreno Armuzzi: Our latest projections confirm what we had anticipated earlier this summer: production is set to rise across all Jingold kiwifruit lines. Yellow kiwifruit, which is the backbone of our business, should see the biggest increase — around 20% — supported by crops in Italy, as well as additional volumes from Greece and Portugal.

The red-fleshed Exotic Red is also expected to expand, with growth in the range of 10%. For the classic green Hayward, we predict a stable season, possibly with a slight uplift in volumes.

From a quality perspective, early indicators gathered during fruit development are encouraging and point to better results than last year at the same stage. Overall, we are preparing for a very promising season, especially for yellow kiwifruit, where demand in the market continues to outpace supply. That’s why boosting volumes remains our primary target.

Which varieties — yellow, green, or red — will be the main growth drivers this season?

Federico Milanese: Gold remains the strongest driver, but red kiwifruit is also showing very good potential. Our diversification of varieties allows us to respond to different consumer tastes and market needs.

What can partners and clients expect from Jingold’s participation in Fruit Attraction Madrid this October?

FM: Madrid is becoming a key moment for our season, as it happens just before the start of harvest. The show is growing bigger each year, and it’s an ideal occasion to meet all our partners worldwide, share strategies, and exchange ideas. Of course, we will have news to present, but we cannot anticipate any details yet.

Are there new markets or regions where you see strong potential for Jingold kiwifruit in the coming months?

FM: Jingold is expanding production and entering new countries such as South Africa, Chile, and Greece. We are becoming a multinational company, but always with the same mission: to exceed consumer expectations. At the same time, we are very attentive to sustainability — we are close to completing our first sustainability balance report.

Retailers increasingly demand transparency and traceability. How is Jingold using data not only for compliance but also for marketing and consumer engagement?

FM: We constantly work on improving traceability from orchard to shelf, integrating sustainability and innovation into our processes. This is not only about compliance but also a way to strengthen consumer trust and brand loyalty.

What message would you like to share with buyers and distributors ahead of the new campaign and upcoming trade events?

FM: We are confident about the new season, with strong volumes and premium high quality fruit. Our message is simple: Jingold is here to support our partners with consistent supply, innovative varieties, and a commitment to sustainability.

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