In a testament to unwavering commitment to food safety excellence, Ceres Fruit Growers (CFG) has been named BRCGS Certificated Site of the Year 2026, receiving this prestigious global recognition in London. The award celebrates the South African company’s exceptional standards in food safety, quality management and supply chain integrity.
What makes this achievement particularly remarkable is the consistent excellence that led to this recognition. Over the past five years, CFG has achieved consecutive AA gradings in unannounced annual Brand Reputation through Compliance Global Standards (BRCGS) audits, with fewer than five deviations recorded each time. This is a performance level that speaks to deeply embedded quality systems.
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“This award is particularly meaningful because it followed nomination by the industry,” explains Joe Hanekom, senior manager of Production at Ceres Fruit Growers. “That consistency demonstrates that our systems are not only in place, but are working effectively at all times.”
A Culture of Excellence
For managing director Francois Malan, the award represents more than technical compliance – it’s also a validation of the company’s fundamental approach to business. “Winning this award confirms the mutual trust we share with our clients and shareholders,” he says. “A commitment to a strong food safety and quality culture is an integral part of our DNA.”
This culture extends throughout the organisation, from management to departmental teams, with every staff member understanding their role in protecting product integrity. The company maintains a comprehensive Food Safety and Quality Culture Plan, supported by clear safety and quality indicators and continuous staff training aligned with both BRCGS and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) requirements.
Global Impact Through Partnership
The significance of this recognition extends well beyond the company’s Ceres operations. As a grower, packer and shareholder in Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing, CFG’s excellence directly impacts global markets where their apples and pears are distributed.
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“Retailers operate in an environment where traceability, food safety and consistency are non-negotiable,” notes Roelf Pienaar, managing director of Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing. “This award provides independent verification that the fruit we market worldwide is supported by robust systems and a deeply embedded quality culture.”
For consumers worldwide enjoying CFG’s produce, from Golden Delicious apples to premium pears, this certification offers peace of mind that their fruit meets stringent international standards for safety, legality, authenticity and quality.
Leading the Way Forward
True to their company slogan “Leading the way”, the team at Ceres Fruit Growers views this achievement not as a destination, but as motivation for continued improvement.
“We challenge ourselves every year to improve further,” says Hanekom. “Ultimately, this recognition belongs to the entire team and reinforces the trust placed in us by our customers and shareholders.”
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As global food safety standards continue to evolve and consumer expectations rise, Ceres Fruit Growers’ BRCGS Certificated Site of the Year 2026 award is proof that excellence is achievable through sustained commitment, robust systems and a culture where quality is everyone’s responsibility.
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