Turners & Growers : Pioneer of pipfruit retires

Tony Fissette

T&G Global announces the retirement of Tony Fissette, the Managing Director of T&G Global's European unit, Enzafruit Continent.

A pioneer of New Zealand pipfruit sales into Europe, Tony has worked passionately for T&G Global and New Zealand apple and pear growers for the past 45 years.

He has played a pivotal role in positioning New Zealand apples and pears on the European stage.

Tony, and his team, successfully introduced New Zealand Royal Gala and Braeburn varieties onto the European market, and in more recent years premium JAZZ™ and Envy™ apples.

Just 10 years ago, Tony and his team celebrated selling 100 million cartons of New Zealand apples in Europe. Last year, they reached 10 million carton sales of JAZZ™ alone thanks to Tony's leadership and passion.

Tony's drive and commitment has been acknowledged through various awards including the Horticulture NZ - 2018 New Zealand Apples & Pears Award for Outstanding Contribution.

Steve Maxwell

Following Tony's retirement Steve Maxwell Chief Executive of Worldwide Fruit (T&G's UK subsidiary), will oversee the European business. Steve has been CEO of Worldwide Fruit for the past five years and has 20 years' experience in the fruit industry.

'I'm incredibly proud to represent some of the finest apples in the world. We have a fantastic basket of varieties including JAZZ™ and Envy™,' Steve says, 'Our aim is to ensure we deliver fantastic service and a fantastic product to our customers and our suppliers year-round.'

Tony has built a fantastic team. Sales & Marketing will continue to be led by Didier Groven and Finance & Operations by Suzy Janssis. Both have worked for Enzafruit Continent for a number of years, giving continuity to suppliers and customers following Tony's retirement.

Tony has been a wonderful ambassador for our business and we wish him a long, healthy and happy retirement.