Crème de la crème of olive oil industry win big at awards

Despite the challenges, the local olive industry continues to shine and create jobs in an economically tough environment, and resilience and dedication have kept producers going. During the Absa Top 10 Olive Oil Awards, industry experts said the future is looking bright but it would take collaboration and innovation to keep the standards high.

‘We are on the right track’

Chief executive of South Africa Olive Wendy Petersen said inclusivity and growth within the South African olive industry are central to their mission.

She said she was overwhelmed by the passion and love shown to her by the industry leaders since taking over the reins. Petersen added that what binds all stakeholders is the ability to create an environment that is conducive for everyone.

“SA Olive is committed to being recognised for the quality of premium extra virgin olive oil that is produced by our South African members both locally and internationally,” she said.

Crème de la crème of olive oil industry win big at awards — Wendy Petersen, the new CEO of SA Olive, believes more hands on deck are needed to make the industry flourish. Photo: Supplied/Food For Mzansi

Key focus areas

“This means supporting emerging farmers, with a particular focus on mentorship and succession and ensuring a place where new entrants find support and guidance.”

Petersen said they also actively invest in research and development through a specialist technical forum that provides guidance and advice among role players and newcomers.

“In addition, our focus extends to creating employment opportunities, nurturing business development, expanding market share, promoting competitiveness, and fostering local technical skills. Succession planning and investment in training and development are at the core of our efforts.”

Petersen said the road ahead needs all stakeholders to work together no matter how hard at times it becomes.

“Congratulations to all 2023 Absa Top 10 Olive Oil Award winners, and for your contribution to the industry. We look forward to the future as we embark on the journey to sustainable development,” she said.

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A decade of partnership

Yolisa Mlungwana, regional segment head from Absa, said the awards are very important to the institution as they are celebrating 10 years of partnership.

“This award has grown into a prestigious annual event at which South African extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) producers are given the deserved recognition for their pursuit of excellence in producing top-quality products.

“The event also validates Absa’s commitment to supporting South African agriculture and promoting the development of South African EVOO and the olive industry,” she said.

Time to celebrate

One of the winners, Shirley van Wyk from Terre Paisible in Franschoek, said winning the award means that their hard work is not going unnoticed and they will be scaling up their work to win more awards.

“This award is really special for us, it is our first year of entering the competition. It shows the commitment and passion for crafting extra virgin olive oil and it is amazing to have the support of SA Olive Oil.

“We will continue producing the extra virgin olive oil, the aim now will be to ensure that we remain at the top,” she said.

Another winner, Petrus van Eeden from Babylonstoren, said the award was a testament to the hard work and what they as a company are trying to achieve, which is to make the best quality olive oil in South Africa.

“We are very happy with this award because for us, it’s an indication that we are on the right track, and we are achieving what we have set ourselves to do.

“Our challenges are normal to what everyone is facing, like load shedding, getting a constant good yield, and the weather patterns that continue to change which makes it difficult to do a good harvest,” he said.