Chilean companies join Samboa Network to boost apple production in Central Valley

CHILE – Three Chilean companies—Frusan, Unifrutti Chile, and Magna—have committed to planting 150 hectares of apples each in Chile’s Central Valley as part of the Samboa project.

This partnership was officially announced by Marco Rivoira, Managing Director of the Italian Rivoira Group, at Fruit Logistica 2025.

This expansion is a significant step in broadening the reach of Samboa’s apple network, which has already seen success in Europe.

This move coincides with the appointment of Giulia Montanaro as the new General Manager of the Samboa Network.

Montanaro, who brings over a decade of experience in the apple industry, expressed excitement about her new role and the direction the company is heading. “I’m very happy with my new role. I like the project because it is a work in progress and because of the concept behind it, that is, to offer a product (three, to be exact) that meets consumers’ tastes under a brand that guarantees consistent quality,” Montanaro said.

The Samboa Project is an innovative initiative by the Italian Rivoira Group, aimed at revolutionizing the apple segment with three new apple varieties: Luiza, Venice, and Isadora.

These varieties are designed to offer exceptional taste, texture, and agronomic performance, making them well-suited for warmer climates and providing a consistent supply throughout the year

The collaboration with Chilean companies is part of a broader strategy to grow the Samboa Network globally.

“This collaboration with Chilean companies represents a key step in our strategy to expand the Samboa Network globally,” Rivoira said.

“By planting these specialized varieties in Chile, we are responding to market demand while also addressing the unique challenges faced by local growers.”

The three apple varieties—Luiza, Venice, and Isadora—are harvested at different times to ensure a steady supply.

The plantings in Chile’s Central Valley will contribute to the overall production goals for 2025, with expectations to reach 7,000 tons across 300 hectares.

Samboa is also set to expand to 500 hectares, both in Italy and Chile, which will allow for greater market reach.

Samboa has already made waves in Italy and Spain, where its apples, known for their super sweetness and long shelf life, have been well received. Montanaro noted, “The supersweet segment is of particular interest to market trends, and Samboa aligns seamlessly with this category.”

Along with the global expansion, Montanaro is also focusing on strengthening marketing strategies. “The network will play a crucial role in facilitating coordinated efforts and enhancing the company’s overall marketing and promotional effectiveness,” she added.

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