SummerFruit

Opportunity
Hort Innovation faced significant challenges with two key Summerfruit R&D projects: the Stone Fruit Usage & Attitude (U&A) Survey and the national Retail Quality Education Program. Delays and lack of alignment with key retail stakeholders had led to industry frustration, with key stakeholders, including supermarkets and industry representatives, questioning the program’s effectiveness. There was a need to rebuild trust, foster collaboration, and ensure that the R&D investments would drive measurable results.

Solution
Reservoir Partners led a comprehensive strategic review, re-establishing strong relationships with key industry stakeholders, including industry leaders and major retail partners. We recommended implementing the U&A survey with amendments, incorporating valuable input from retailers Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi to align the study with their needs. By facilitating open dialogue and involving key stakeholders throughout the process, we secured buy-in and renewed their commitment to the program. Additionally, we supported the execution of the Retail Quality Education Program, which focused on improving in-store merchandising and ensuring consistent quality across 795 stores nationally, while furthering collaboration with retailers to drive success.

Results
Implementation of the U&A was a success, with active input from key industry stakeholders and retailers, resulting in actionable insights that aligned with both market needs and consumer preferences. The Retail Quality Education Program was rolled out across nationally, delivering education of store staff, POS implementation whilst improving the consistency of in-store displays and fruit quality. These initiatives, underpinned by strong stakeholder management and collaboration, not only strengthened relationships with retailers but also helped restore industry confidence, setting the stage for sustainable growth and improved consumer engagement.

Testimonial
“David has ​helped steer program delivery via strategic program review, u&a research oversight and retail training and education program oversight. His strong retail experience and relationships are evident and he has been a welcome extension of the team.” - Karina​​​​ Keisler, GM Marketing & Communications, Horticulture Innovation Australia.