WESTFALIA FRUIT
“ My role in the company is ensuring that we apply our technology in a way that helps us deliver our core business ”
ANDRE OOSTHUISEN GROUP INTEGRATION AND IT EXECUTIVE , WESTFALIA FRUIT challenges may be faced in the future , including water supply , soil health and the impacts of climate change . Today , its dedicated team of scientists and plant pathologists are busy planning and preparing for such future challenges . Whilst also today , Westfalia are reaping the rewards of research started by its teams up to 30 years previously – to be fit for the future .
At the helm of the technological transformation is Andre Oosthuisen , the Group Integration and IT Executive , whose vision is helping to shape the future of fruit production and distribution .
Westfalia ’ s Fruit ’ s farming evolution Despite being a heritage company , founded by Dr Hans Merensky , its roots have always been visionary . “ Merensky was an absolute genius and one of the original pathfinders in sustainable farming methodology ,” Andre explains .
This commitment to sustainable farming principles instilled by Dr Merensky , remains at the core of its operations .
“ Sustainability requirements that quite rightly , society is demanding these days has become endemic in the industry ,” Andre emphasises . “ Yet it has been a part of Westfalia Fruit ’ s DNA since Dr Merensky founded the company 75 years ago .”
Yet , in a world of a changing climate , and with Westfalia Fruit having expanded to cater to a global market , new challenges have emerged .
Luckily , the company has an accomplished IT and digital transformation specialist leading this technological innovation .
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