Arabfields, Farah Benali, Economic Correspondent in China — T&G Global has delivered impressive results for its New Zealand apple growers in the 2025 season, driven by robust global demand for premium varieties and effective strategic investments. The company announced it will distribute a total of NZ$172 million in returns to its grower network for Envy, Jazz, and commercial variety apples, marking a substantial increase of NZ$34 million, or 25 percent, compared to the previous season. This uplift continues a positive trend observed in recent years, underscoring the resilience and growth potential of T&G’s integrated apples business.
Shane Kingston, T&G’s chief operating officer for apples, highlighted how these returns demonstrate the effectiveness of the company’s long-term strategy. Over the past seven years, T&G has developed a comprehensive end-to-end operation, encompassing superior varieties, automation-ready orchards, and a sophisticated demand-building framework that aligns global consumer interest with supply timing. With a strong emphasis on maximizing grower value, the achievements in 2025 are particularly noteworthy amid challenges such as US import tariffs and subdued consumer sentiment in certain Asian markets. The rapid sales velocity this year further illustrates the solid momentum propelling the apples division forward.
Both flagship premium brands contributed significantly to these gains. Envy apples saw returns rise by NZ$0.70 per average tray carton equivalent, while Jazz delivered an even stronger increase of NZ$4.24 per average TCE compared to the prior year. These improvements stem from enhanced performance in key international markets. Envy continued to excel across Asia, with standout demand in China, Thailand, and Singapore, where consumers increasingly seek high-quality, premium fruit experiences. Meanwhile, Jazz achieved a remarkable 32 percent year-on-year growth in sales volumes and maintained its status as the leading imported apple brand in Japan, a market known for its exacting standards.
The commercial apple export program also posted robust results, with volumes sold 63 percent faster than the previous year and total volumes rising 41 percent. Leading varieties included Pacific Rose, which enjoyed a 29 percent uplift in returns, and Fuji, up 27 percent. Across the broader commercial portfolio, T&G secured an average 5 percent increase in grower returns, supported by consistent crop quality that sustained strong sales momentum throughout the peak season.
Looking ahead, the foundations laid by T&G position the company for continued expansion in the coming years. Global demand for premium apples shows no signs of slowing, fueled by rising consumer preferences for flavorful, high-quality options in both established and emerging markets. With Envy and Jazz already established as powerhouse brands, and ongoing investments in orchard efficiency, variety development, and market access, grower returns are likely to see further elevations in 2026 and beyond. Industry forecasts suggest New Zealand’s overall apple exports could contribute significantly to horticulture revenues approaching NZ$1 billion annually, reflecting broader sector growth. As T&G expands its presence, including new offices in key regions like Taiwan and partnerships for innovative varieties, the outlook remains optimistic, promising even greater value creation for growers and sustained leadership in the premium apple category worldwide. This trajectory not only rewards current efforts but also signals a vibrant future where premium New Zealand apples capture an increasing share of global consumer enthusiasm.
