Kiwifruit giant Zespri partners with SAP for second phase of digital transformation

Zespri, the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit, has launched the second phase of its digital transformation in partnership with SAP.

This move follows the successful completion of the first stage, which yielded significant benefits for the company.

The initial phase resulted in avoiding more than NZ$1 million in infrastructure costs over six years, saved 15,000 hours in productivity, and generated NZ$2.2m in profit and loss savings.

Zespri's focus on a 'clean core' - cloud-based ERP infrastructure separating core applications from custom modifications - enabled a recent seamless upgrade of its SAP S/4HANA platform.

"Zespri's transformation is entirely focused on creating sustainable, long-term value for our kiwifruit growers by ensuring robust digital platforms enable offering consumers the world's leading portfolio of branded kiwifruit all year round", said David Scullin, chief digital officer at Zespri.

The partnership with SAP has facilitated the distribution of more than 193 million trays of kiwifruit across 51 countries through digital platforms, meeting growing global demand.

"The next phase of our work will see greater focus on data to improve decision-making, simplify operations, modernise with innovation, and provide higher returns to our grower community," Scullin added.

As part of its RISE with SAP implementation, Zespri has purchased SAP Sustainability Control Tower.

This solution will enable the company to record, report, and act on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) data embedded into its business processes.

Zespri's transformation journey with SAP began in 2021, with the implementation of SAP S/4HANA Cloud, private edition and SAP Integrated Business Planning in 2022.

The implementation also includes various SAP Business Technology Platform capabilities and SAP-endorsed partner solutions.

"Our Horizon transformation programme is designed to amplify and enhance our business capabilities and creating a seamless, user-friendly experience across our operations", Scullin explained.

The company has also invested in an innovative artificial intelligence-powered Quality Control software with SAP-partner Clarifruit.

This implementation has modernised quality control processes, achieving a 5 per cent improvement in supply chain quality and efficiency, enhancing inspection productivity by 25 per cent, and ensuring rigorous quality standards for every piece of fruit.

"As we begin the next phase of their ambitious RISE with SAP programme, I look forward to the innovative ways Zespri will continue to grow and delight consumers, boost sustainability, and maintain its amazing returns for growers," Angela Colantuono, managing director of the ERP giant, about the partnership.