United Exports, the exclusive marketer of OZblu blueberries, has reached an unprecedented milestone: its Southern African OZblu farms have earned Platinum Status in their first-ever environmental audits conducted by SIZA (Sustainability Initiative of South Africa) and LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming). This makes United Exports the first large-scale blueberry producer worldwide to achieve LEAF certification, reinforcing its leadership in responsible agriculture.
This recognition signals far more than operational excellence—it reflects a deep, long-term commitment to protecting the planet at a time when environmental action is urgently needed. With global biodiversity having declined 73% between 1970 and 2020 (WWF), the agriculture industry’s impact is under increasing scrutiny. United Exports’ achievement demonstrates that commercial farming and ecosystem conservation can—and must—coexist.
A Sustainability Journey Backed by Global Development Partners
United Exports’ success is the result of several years of dedicated environmental work, supported by key partners: the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the FMO (Dutch Development Bank). These Development Finance Institutions have played a crucial role in helping the company meet stringent environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. Their support aligned with United Exports’ strategic focus on improving water use, reducing carbon emissions, enhancing biodiversity, and adopting climate-smart farming practices.
According to Founder and Executive Chairman Roger Horak, the certification represents the culmination of a six-year journey:
“Achieving the top certification across all our OZblu farms is more than a milestone – it’s a testament to our belief that farming and environmental preservation can thrive together.”
He adds that the achievement demonstrates how sustainable agriculture is not just possible, but essential for the future.
Farming in Harmony With Nature
One of the most striking examples of United Exports’ environmental approach is Nyami Berries, a 253-hectare OZblu farm in the Magaliesberg region of South Africa. Nearly a third of the property lies within the protected Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve, illustrating how the company integrates productive farming with conservation.
This model ensures ecosystems remain intact while allowing the farm to thrive. By protecting natural habitats alongside cultivating blueberries, United Exports demonstrates a holistic method that strengthens biodiversity rather than degrading it.
A Global Company Growing for Good
Since its founding in 2002, United Exports has grown from a stone-fruit operation into a vertically integrated agricultural business. Today, it produces OZblu blueberries in 12 countries, supplying premium berries to major global markets. Its international success is driven by a unique combination of innovative blueberry genetics and precision-based, environmentally conscious farming techniques.
OZblu blueberries are known for being juicier, crunchier, tastier, and longer-lasting than traditional varieties—qualities that stem directly from the company’s advanced breeding programme and sustainable production systems.
Leading the Future of Sustainable Agriculture
United Exports’ Platinum certification marks a defining moment for the global blueberry industry. By proving that high-quality food production can be achieved while actively protecting ecosystems, the company sets a powerful example for agricultural producers worldwide. With continued investment in sustainability and a commitment to environmental stewardship, United Exports shows that saving the planet really can taste this good.