IG International, one of India’s leading fresh fruit importers, has announced it has signed a joint venture with RK Growers (Rivoira & Kiwi-Uno group, Italy) for the production of superior fruit varieties in India . The joint venture, known as Fresh Genetics India Private Limited, has been signed in Berlin during the Fruit Logistica, the annual fresh produce trade show that is one of the premier events in the industry.
The objective to join forces is to become the world's leading fruit genetics firm on multiple cultivars firstly kiwis, grapes, apples, and many others. The inked alliance would assist in carving India's place on the world map as a hub for best-of-breed kiwifruits. The partnership also has a blueprint for expansion in the production side of the cultivars.
RK Growers has been in the fruit business for over 40 years, working closely with growers and packhouses all over the world to select the most innovative and great-tasting varieties to meet consumers' ever-changing demands. The pioneering fresh produce company consolidates the expertise of the major growers and customers across the globe.
Acclaimed as the leading fresh fruit importer in India, IG International is entrenched with a renowned reputation for more than 50 years in this market segment. The company’s organized and strategic sourcing system, augmented by a seamless supply chain with a well-connected overseas procurement network, enables them to import best-of-breed fruits from 22 different countries.
Speaking about the alliance with RK Growers, Tarun Arora, Director of Finance and Operations of IG International, said, “RK Growers has been in the fresh produce industry for more than four decades; experience cannot be purchased. Their best-of-breed fruits are enjoyed all over the world. With this alliance, we at IG International want to get the Indian customer the freshest, pulpiest, and top-quality kiwis. Fruit Genetics India envisions being the stewards of fruit genetic science and breeding for kiwis, apples, and grapes in the world. Our partnership would also propel India to become one of the prime exporters of first-grade kiwis in the world.”
Referring to the joint venture with IG International, Paolo Carissimo, President of RK Growers, said, “Our collaboration with IG International gives us a panoptic view of the length and breadth of the Indian fruit market. Indian customers adore fruits, and they are an essential part of their daily diet. Kiwis are particularly popular."
“However, they are seen as a foreign fruit in the Indian subcontinent, albeit enjoyed a lot for their ambrosial taste. That all changes with Fresh Genetics India. Kiwis are primed to become Indian natives with our association. Due to their unrivaled quality and commitment to customer satisfaction, IG International has made a name in India and overseas, and we’re thrilled to join hands with them. It is time for India to get its own Kiwi connection.”