Big Island Organics has been actively engaged in WUSATA events since 2017, achieving notable success in exporting to markets like Japan. Their latest accomplishment involves expanding their exports to Fiji, marking a significant milestone for the company.
In the autumn of 2023, WUSATA coordinated a substantial inbound mission targeting consumer-oriented buyers from Australia and New Zealand. The management of this initiative was entrusted to skilled project managers from California and Washington, with strong support from the USDA’s Market Access Program (MAP). The mission's central objective was to showcase a diverse range of retail-packaged consumer goods, perfectly aligning with the offerings of Big Island Organics.
In 1996, Hawaiian Gingerade was born on the Big Island of Hawaii, blending family farm-grown yellow ginger, organic lemon juice, filtered water, and agave nectar. Its popularity soared, landing it on local brewery menus and shelves across Hawaii. By 2008, production shifted to Northern California to meet growing demand, maintaining the original recipes and commitment to quality.
Australia and New Zealand emerged as highly profitable export destinations, given their adventurous populations eager to embrace elements of U.S. culture, particularly in food. This cultural harmony presented Big Island Organics with a golden opportunity, resulting in an initial
shipment of two pallets to NewWorld IGA in Fiji.
Simon Molesworth, Head of Sales at Big Island Organics, highlighted the effectiveness of WUSATA's approach: “WUSATA brings buyers straight to us. Even if the buyer you’re talking to isn’t necessarily looking at beverages, they might be able to connect you with the person who is. That’s what I love about WUSATA.”
NewWorld IGA, a leading retail chain with 19 supermarkets and 3 wholesale divisions spread across the Fiji Islands, played a pivotal role in reshaping the local supermarket retail scene. Over the years, it has become a household name in Fiji, serving the community with dedication through a team of over 1,300 staff members. The successful partnership between Big Island Organics and NewWorld IGA serves as a prime example of collaborative efforts driving international growth and market penetration.