The Asia Fruit Awards 2024 have been presented to four distinguished recipients, recognizing excellence in various sectors of the fresh produce industry. The winners, announced during a ceremony at Asia Fruit Logistica, include Australian Avocados, Joy Wing Mau Group, Sam’s Club China, and Hortifrut IG Berries.
Marketing Campaign of the Year: Australian Avocados
Australian Avocados won the Marketing Campaign of the Year Award for their extensive international campaign across seven markets: Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, India, and the GCC region. The campaign, managed by Hort Innovation and Avocados Australia, featured a robust mix of B2C and B2B activities. B2C efforts included in-store promotions, sampling, online advertising, and social media engagement, while B2B activities involved retail training, trade show participation, and partnerships with restaurant chains and importers.
Importer of the Year: Joy Wing Mau Group
Joy Wing Mau Group, a leading global fruit distributor based in China, received the Importer of the Year Award. Recognized for its significant advancements over the past year, Joy Wing Mau has enhanced trade relations with key supplying countries, including New Zealand, Thailand, and Chile. The company has also innovated in logistics, employing methods such as chartered ships and flights, sea-air combination transport, and decentralized customs clearance to streamline fruit imports.
Produce Retailer of the Year: Sam’s Club China
Sam’s Club China was honored with the Produce Retailer of the Year Award. Since its first store opened in Shenzhen over 28 years ago, the membership-only warehouse chain has expanded to nearly 50 locations across China. Amid the growing e-commerce trend, Sam’s Club has maintained its edge by catering to China’s expanding middle class with high-quality produce and a distinctive shopping experience.
Impact Award: Hortifrut IG Berries
The Impact Award went to Hortifrut IG Berries for their groundbreaking work in developing the blueberry category in India. Established in 2017 as a joint venture between IG International, Mountain Blue Orchards (MBO), and Mano D Babiolakis, IG Berries has built a comprehensive blueberry production and marketing operation from the ground up. Their achievements include establishing a tissue culture laboratory, nursery facilities, and managing the entire supply chain from cultivation to consumer delivery.