Sun World expands AUTUMNCRISP network with five new Italian marketers

ITALY – Sun World has announced that five leading produce companies in Italy have joined its network of authorized marketers.

This move aims to ensure wider availability of AUTUMNCRISP grapes, a variety known for its crisp texture and sweet flavor. As consumer demand for high-quality table grapes continues to grow, Sun World is increasing efforts to make this variety more accessible in international markets.

AUTUMNCRISP grapes have gained a strong following due to their appealing taste and texture. With more retailers looking to stock premium table grapes, Sun World’s decision to expand its list of licensed marketers is expected to enhance supply chain efficiency.

By working with additional partners in Italy, the company is positioning itself to serve both new and existing markets more effectively.

“This expansion comes at an important time for the market – which has shown an increasing demand for AUTUMNCRISP. Whether it’s someone who is tasting these grapes for the first time or consumers who actively seek them out in their local retailers, the expansion of licensed marketers strengthens our ability to meet growing global demand for premium table grapes,” said Maurizio Ventura, Europe licensing manager for Sun World International.

Sun World’s collaboration with these Italian produce companies is not just about increasing production; it is also about maintaining consistent quality for consumers worldwide. Ventura emphasized that partnering with established industry players allows the company to ensure its grapes remain a preferred choice among retailers and shoppers.

“By partnering with these five industry leaders in Italy, we are ensuring that more consumers can consistently experience the exceptional quality of AUTUMNCRISP grapes while creating greater opportunities for our growers and retail partners,” he said.

Sun World International has been actively promoting its AUTUMNCRISP green seedless grapes as a globally branded table grape available year-round. In 2024, the company launched a robust marketing campaign that included digital outreach, in-store promotions, and collaborations with food influencers.

The campaign achieved over 2.3 million impressions on social media and featured sampling events at major food festivals like the Winter Fancy Food Show in Las Vegas and the New York City Wine and Food Festiva

Expanding the AUTUMNCRISP network

The five newly authorized Italian marketers are Op Palmieri, 2 Erre S.r.l., Royal Fruit Ltd., Lozupone Import – Export S.R.L., and Sant’Andrea Company. Op Palmieri, founded in 2019, is known for its expertise in high-quality stone fruit and table grapes, constantly adapting to market trends.

2 Erre S.r.l., based in Polignano a Mare, manages 150 hectares of table grape production and has a strong retail presence in Germany, Northern Europe, and Saudi Arabia.

The company is also committed to sustainability and has published Apulia’s first agricultural sector Sustainability Report.

Royal Fruit Ltd., established in 2004, specializes in table grapes, stone fruit, and artichokes, supplying major retailers in Italy and abroad.

Lozupone Import – Export S.R.L. focuses on distributing seedless and seeded table grapes across Europe, with operations in Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands.

Sant’Andrea Company, a prominent producer in Apulia, cultivates table grapes, stone fruit, and vegetables, ensuring a year-round supply for large-scale distributors.

 As part of Sun World’s global network, these new marketers will have access to various business resources, including marketing support, variety development updates, and a dedicated licensee portal.

The company remains committed to expanding its international presence, ensuring that AUTUMNCRISP remains widely available to consumers who appreciate high-quality table grapes.

For a full list of Sun World’s current licensees, visit the company’s official website.

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