XX  Hero  News Yellow watermelon how Tropical Sunshine RZ adds colour to retail shelves

News - 28-01-2025

Yellow watermelon: how Tropical Sunshine RZ adds colour to retail shelves

Innovation is the only way to stay ahead of the game. That is why South African growing companies, supermarket chain Woolworths and Rijk Zwaan collaborated closely to bring customers something special in both the core fruit and the prepared fruit category: yellow watermelon Tropical Sunshine RZ. “It stands out because of its colour and amazing taste.”

Give customers something special

“I’m thrilled to present our exclusive Tropical Sunshine watermelon – a bright yellow, uniquely sweet variety that’s been in the making for over three years. I couldn’t be prouder to give our customers something truly special.” This is how Konrad Marais, Senior Procurement Specialist at Woolworths, presented this brand-new product on LinkedIn in November 2024.

Incredible support

“This unique watermelon is the result of our growers’ dedication and commitment to our crazy retail ideas, the incredible support from our seed partners, and a massive team effort to bring this exclusive offering to both core and prepared fruit categories,” he continued. Woolworths is selling four variants of Tropical Sunshine: as a whole, half and quarter watermelon, and as a fresh-cut option.

Real magic happens on the farms

“While we create the stage, the real magic happens on the farms,” Konrad added. One of those farms is production company Habata, located in the Sunday’s River Valley in the Eastern Cape. In addition to the responsibility it feels for the environment and community, the company fosters excellence and innovation. “We believe you must always strive for something better,” comments Gary Webb, Production Director.

Amazing taste

Gary believes this unique watermelon truly deserves a place in the market.“Like most ranking crops, it comes with its challenges. However, it stands out as a variety because of its yellow colour and amazing taste. Sales seem to be going well at our partner Woolworths. They always go the extra mile, which is why they do so well.”

Watermelon

True collaboration

Rijk Zwaan played a crucial role in initiating this project and has been a truly collaborative partner. “They led from the front, and we highly commend them for that. They are always looking for new opportunities. In fact, both our companies are always seeking better varieties and ways to deliver what our customers are looking for,” Gary concludes.

At Rijk Zwaan, we aim to create a sustainable, positive impact for the world’s food supply by caring for innovation, caring for our partners, and caring for your growth. Visit our team in Hall 1.2, D-13 at Fruit Logistica 2025 to explore how our commitment to care can help you thrive in today’s ever-evolving market. You can also arrange a guided tour in the Retail Centre in Berlin – our company’s very own retail experience facility.

For more information, please contact:
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For more information, please contact:
Jan Doldersum
Manager Chain & Retail