product management
Managing the markets
The Special Fruit organisation is characterised by grouping per product rather than grouping per business function. In other words: based on outgoing market orientation rather than inner-directed bureaucracy. Our product managers know all there is to know about their own specific types of produce, and get involved in the entire chain: from sourcing and buying to packaging and logistics. They not only ensure specialised quality in all business processes but also expand our range, adding new varieties and specialties as these become available –or as market demand grows.
The key to their performance is product-oriented innovation across the board. Recent examples of such successful innovation include:
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Special Fruit’s Ready-To-Eat range of mango, papaya and avocadothe previously obscure pomegranate that appeals to changing tastes and new markets multi-fruit packaging forms (e.g. presentation trays) that appeal to exclusive markets and add value
Growing produce and growing business
When dealing with perishable goods, quality begins at the source. Planters and growers are carefully vetted in terms of expertise, experience, reliability and continuity. Particular attention is given to the use of fertilizers, additives and pesticides, and to the sustainability of their operations.
Market demands are becoming tougher in terms of fair trade, hygiene, working conditions and sustainability. Special Fruit has specialist staff members scouring the world in search of new sources, better sources, innovative sources and more effective sources. They not only look at plantation facilities but include process speed and shipping procedures in their evaluation as they seek ever-more ‘perfection in freshness’.
At the supply end, we seek long-term relationships with business partners; from buyers to truckers and from retail outlets to logistic service providers.
It is all part of our firm belief in durable partnerships. We are pleased to see most of our partners have similar preferences.
