Building Better Blueberries in Southern Africa

Southern Africa’s blueberry industry has entered an exciting new chapter. What was once considered an emerging category has rapidly evolved into one of the region’s most dynamic agricultural sectors, driven by strong export demand, ideal growing regions, and a growing appetite for premium-quality fruit. Fall Creek® has played an important role in this journey by bringing world-class blueberry genetics, technical expertise, and grower-focused support to the region.

At the center of Fall Creek®’s approach is a simple but powerful philosophy: Breed. Grow. Serve. These three pillars guide the company’s commitment to helping growers succeed through advanced genetics, premium plant production, and hands-on support throughout every stage of the blueberry journey.

As Southern Africa continues to establish itself as a key player in global blueberry production, Fall Creek® remains focused on building long-term partnerships with growers across the region. From South Africa, Namibia to Zimbabwe and beyond, the company continues to invest in people, innovation, and grower success while working toward its mission of “Building a World with Better Blueberries™.”

Breed: Advancing Blueberry Innovation

Innovation has always been at the heart of Fall Creek®. With almost 50 years of experience in blueberry breeding and research, the company continues to develop varieties tailored to different growing environments, chill levels, and market demands.

Southern Africa presents unique production opportunities and challenges. From cooler high-altitude regions to low-chill coastal environments, growers require varieties that can consistently perform under diverse conditions while still meeting the expectations of export and retail markets.

One of the newest varieties attracting significant attention is Fall Creek® Collection APEX ‘FCM14-057’. Recently launched as part of the Fall Creek® Collection platform, APEX ‘FCM14-057’ represents the next generation of blueberry breeding innovation.

APEX ‘FCM14-057’ was developed to address growing demand for premium-quality blueberries in the early- to mid-season export window. The variety combines several highly desirable characteristics, including:

• Large, uniform berry size
• Excellent firmness and shelf life
• High yield potential
• Strong flavour profile

APEX ‘FCM14-057’ has demonstrated shelf life performance of up to 45 days while maintaining fruit quality and firmness throughout the supply chain. Its adaptability across diverse production environments globally makes it particularly relevant for growers across Southern Africa’s varied climatic regions.

As global demand for premium blueberries continues to rise, Fall Creek® remains committed to breeding varieties that support grower profitability while delivering the eating experience consumers increasingly expect.

Grow: Supporting Growers with Quality Plants and Expertise

At Fall Creek®, growing extends far beyond plant production. The company’s philosophy focuses on helping growers build successful, sustainable blueberry businesses through premium plant quality, technical expertise, and practical field support.

The Southern African Grower Support team plays a critical role in this mission. Working closely with growers throughout the production cycle, the team provides guidance on varietal selection, orchard establishment, pruning, production management, and overall performance.

The regional Grower Support team includes:

• Stegmann Hanekom, Senior Grower Support Representative
• Louise van der Merwe, Grower Support Representative - Western Cape and Namibia
• Mark Pretorius, Grower Support Representative - Limpopo and Kenya
• Anthony Bingly, Grower Support Representative supporting growers in Zimbabwe

Together, the team works alongside growers to help optimize production outcomes across a wide range of growing environments. Their local expertise, combined with Fall Creek®’s global knowledge base, allows growers to make informed decisions with greater confidence.

Fall Creek® has consistently emphasized the importance of applied research and real-world field performance. Through initiatives such as the Plant Preview Programme and regional grower engagement activities, growers gain access to new genetics, technical insights, and ongoing support that help reduce risk and improve long-term success.

The company’s investment in Southern Africa reflects its belief in the region’s long-term potential. As Herman Louw, General Manager for Fall Creek® South Africa, recently noted, blueberry production in Southern Africa continues to evolve rapidly, creating new opportunities for innovation, learning, and partnership.

Serve: Building Strong Relationships Across Southern Africa

Serving remains one of the defining pillars of the Fall Creek® business. Beyond supplying genetics and plants, the company focuses on building aligned, long-term relationships with growers and industry partners.

As part of this continued investment in customer support, Fall Creek® recently welcomed Yolandi Copeland as the new Area Manager for Southern Africa. Her appointment strengthens the regional leadership team and reinforces Fall Creek®’s commitment to supporting growers throughout the region.

Yolandi joins the business at an exciting time for the Southern African blueberry industry. As production expands and export opportunities continue to grow, strong regional leadership and close customer relationships remain essential to long-term success.

Fall Creek® is also expanding its customer service capabilities with the appointment of Charlene Langtrey, who will work alongside Melise Ferreira to support customers across the region.

Together, the customer service and technical support teams help ensure growers receive timely assistance, clear communication, and ongoing support throughout every stage of their Fall Creek® journey.

This customer-focused philosophy is deeply embedded within Fall Creek®’s global operations. The company’s “We Go Where You Grow” approach reflects its commitment to providing localized expertise backed by international experience and research.

Looking Ahead

The future of blueberries in Southern Africa continues to look incredibly promising. With increasing global demand, expanding export opportunities, and continued investment in genetics and grower support, the region is well-positioned for sustained growth.

Through its commitment to Breed. Grow. Serve., Fall Creek® continues to strengthen its role as a trusted partner to growers across Southern Africa. Whether through innovative varieties like APEX ‘FCM14-057’, experienced technical support teams, strengthened customer service, or ongoing investment in the region, Fall Creek® remains focused on helping growers succeed today and into the future.

As the industry evolves, one thing remains clear: successful blueberry production is built on innovation, relationships, and support. At Fall Creek®, those principles continue to guide every step forward as the company works toward Building a World with Better Blueberries™.