Hortgro is the South African deciduous fruit industry’s knowledge partner. We aim to keep our growers informed and grow and transform the industry.
At the same time, we care about where our food comes from and how it is produced. We care about the people in our industry and the environment. We set high standards for ourselves in what we do. We encourage our growers to do the same and abide by independent certification from ethical standards organisations.
The aim is simple – to supply the best-tasting high-quality fruit produced under safe working conditions and within fair labour practices while also considering Mother Nature. Hortgro actively participates in industry forums addressing social, ethical, health and safety, and environmental issues. Download our vision and mission infographic here: Hortgro Infographic Pome Stone.
Hortgro is part of the bigger Fruit South Africa (FSA) family. We subscribe to the FSA Value Statement. Please download it here: Fruit SA Values Statement.
SIZA
We encourage our growers to subscribe to the Sustainability Initiative of South Africa (SIZA) – a platform for agricultural stakeholders to ensure ethical and environmentally sustainable trade. SIZA monitors and cares for the environment and compliance with labour legislation. Find out more, here: https://siza.co.za/
Modern Slavery
Many people might think they heard wrong when we mention the concept of ‘modern slavery’. Unfortunately, unlawful labour practices continue to pose a real challenge and devastate lives. Modern slavery is real. At Hortgro, we encourage all our growers to support the Stronger Together initiative to help eliminate modern slavery in all its forms. Identifying and eradicating modern slavery and unlawful practices is something everyone in the industry should strive for. Find more information here: https://www.stronger2gether.org/za/
Confronting Climate Change
The Confronting Climate Change (CCC) initiative is a carbon footprint project developed to support the South African fruit sector by identifying and responding to the risks and opportunities associated with carbon emissions.
Find more information here: https://www.climatefruitandwine.co.za/