June 11, 2003

New Zealand Apples Move Thru Port of Corpus Christi Cold Storage
for Third Year in A Row
New Apples Varieties Arrive for the First Time in Corpus Christi

Kyokuyo's NAGATO REEFER arrived at the Port of Corpus Christi Cold Storage on June 4 carrying approximately 35,000 boxes of the freshest, crispest apples available this time of the year. This marks the third season in a row the Port of Corpus Christi has received apples for ENZA, the primary marketer of New Zealand apples. " We are please the Port has gained its solid reputation as a preferred Texas port of entry for New Zealand apples," said John P. La Rue, Port of Corpus Christi executive director.

Such popular varieties as Braeburn, Royal Gala, and Granny Smith were joined by Pink Lady and Pacific Queen, newer apples that arrived directly into Corpus Christi for the first time.

" Since Texas is really a 'hot spot' for New Zealand apples, ENZA wanted to bring both the established and emerging apple varieties directly from the orchard into Texas so people can enjoy them at their best. Shipment through Corpus Christi enables ENZA to do just that," says David Nelley, director of the pipfruit category for The Oppenheimer Groups, ENZA's North American marketing partner.

" The bulk of the apples will be sold to H-E-B stores and should be in stores soon. When great tasting apples are off-loaded close to home, it opens up new definition of freshness. And when, the Port of Corpus Christi demonstrates its unique ability to service customer needs, it opens up new definitions of business opportunities," said Debbie Lindsey-Opel, H-E-B director of public affairs. Founded in Kerrville, Texas in 1905, H-E-B employs 55,000 employees and operates 300 stores throughout Texas, Louisiana and internationally in Mexico.

Opened in 2000, the Port of Corpus Christi Cold Storage has become the premier Texas Gulf Coast facility handling both frozen and chilled commodities for domestic and international markets as well as re-packing meat products destined for Mexico.

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