The Waikiki melon variety was honoured with the 2024 Flavour of the Year award in Portugal. This accolade was awarded by a panel of consumers and validated by a specialised external laboratory, who rated their satisfaction with the Waikiki as 'exceptional', placing it in an outstanding position.
The Waikiki, a variety from the Spanish seed company Semillas Fitó, is grown in Portugal by the producer Planicie Verde. "This melon has demonstrated an unrivalled quality that has won over the taste buds of Portuguese consumers. The jury, made up of real consumers, highlighted the exceptional freshness, flavour and quality of the Waikiki, which thus became the first melon to win an award, joining other recognised and valued exotic fruits such as pineapple and mango," says Semillas Fitó.
"This brand recognition is testimony to the commitment to excellence that we maintain in the production and distribution of Waikiki in order to offer quality fruit that relates to consumers and their expectations," they add.
In 2024, the brand is expected to expand significantly to meet the demand of Portuguese chains and consumers. 'Meeting Portuguese demand is a major challenge and we are expanding our resources to continue offering Waikiki in quantity, quality and continuity throughout the campaign,' says Luís Correia, general manager of Planície Verde.
In addition to the Flavour of the Year award, the two companies will continue to invest in the communication and marketing of the brand, with a view to increasing awareness, which will contribute to its consolidation and added value in the market.
