Beverage firm penetrates New Zealand market

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Investment Fiji CEO Kamal Chetty, left, Juice Fiji founder Panapasa Daunakamakama and Investment Fiji Manager Trade Promotion Ananaiasa Vunituraga. Picture: SUPPLIED BELOW: Juice Fiji’s health juice sits on a supermarket shelf in Suva. Picture: JUICE FIJI
Investment Fiji CEO Kamal Chetty, left, Juice Fiji founder Panapasa Daunakamakama and Investment Fiji Manager Trade Promotion Ananaiasa Vunituraga. Picture: SUPPLIED BELOW: Juice Fiji’s health juice sits on a supermarket shelf in Suva. Picture: JUICE FIJI

Locally-owned beverage manufacturer Juice Fiji has expanded its market to New Zealand securing distributorship in major cities there.

The company now has its products available in Auckland, Hamilton and Rotorua with plans for further growth.

Founder Panapasa Daunakamakama noted the overwhelming demand for the product by Fijians living overseas.

“As we were doing our local marketing, our customers, especially those in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States of America began requesting that we export our product,” Mr Daunakamakama said.

“Some were even taking it with them on their personal trips, but we knew we had to meet the demand more formally.

“We have sent 5000 bottles to our distributor this week alone. The demand is growing, and we are getting excellent feedback from customers.

“Every week, our stock is being restocked, and that is a great sign that our product is resonating with people.”

He commended the Fijians in New Zealand for supporting a local business that believed in boosting the local economy, support local farmers, and promote better health through nutritious options.

“Our product is not just a regular juice. It combines herbs and superfoods such as ginger, turmeric, beetroot, watermelon, pineapple, and black pepper, along with rock salt. It is a unique product aimed at improving gut health, which is the foundation of overall well-being.”

Juice Fiji products are available in major supermarkets in the country.

Investment Fiji CEO Kamal Chetty said Juice Fiji’s expansion into New Zealand was a great example of the potential of local Fijian businesses in the global marketplace.

“Juice Fiji’s success highlights the importance of diversifying Fiji’s exports and supporting local businesses in achieving their global potential,” Mr Chetty said.

“We are excited to witness more Fijian companies expanding internationally and contributing to the economy.”

Fiji Consulate General and Trade Commissioner to Australia and New Zealand Daniel Stow said: “It is always encouraging to see export ready brands meet the demands and quality standards of the international market.

“We look forward to continue working with Panapasa Daunakamakama and other export ready companies.”