The I.Q. Process - Some years ago we believed the apple industry
worldwide to be in trouble. Tired of receiving soft, old apples, consumers were turning away.
Eating quality was inconsistent because decisions along the delivery chain were made for the wrong
reasons. Logistic decisions were driven by market prices, apple sizes, quotas, shipping schedules,
or the sheer popularity of a variety, with resultant poor harvest regimes.
Heartland growers went back to the basics. We had a desire to
deliver crisp, juicy, eating apples from Nelson, New Zealand every time.
That means all our decisions are based purely on what is best for the apple and our customers.
Unusually in this business, we own our own orchards, pack houses and marketing company – which
affords us control and traceability from start to finish.
It has allowed us to implement our rigorous I.Q Process, which has seven separate yet integrated
stages. It is only by following the I.Q. Process that we can be confident of delivering
consistently delicious Heartland apples and pears to our customers. For a more detailed explanation on any of our process
outlined below, just click on the area that interests you.
Heartland's I.Q. Process
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1. The perfect growing conditions
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2. Pioneering varieties and plantings
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3. Architecturally designed orchards
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4. Harvesting for quality
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5. Customer-made packing plan
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6. Fruit focussed logistics
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7. Customer philosophy that fits
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