Manila, Philippines – The Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA) officially inaugurated the 2026 season in the Philippines today with an elaborate showcase event held at the prestigious Grand Hyatt Manila. The event was attended by all of the country’s leading retail chains, industry stakeholders, and media representatives. Attendees were treated to an afternoon featuring an assortment of premium Australian grapes, complemented by expertly crafted grape-themed canapés and decadent desserts that highlighted the versatility and quality of the produce. Additionally, the gathering marked the public debut of the industry’s newest charismatic figure — Gary the Grape — who delighted guests and added a fun, engaging element to the occasion.
Australian Table Grapes
The event served as a vibrant gathering of influential buyers and category leaders from prominent retail chains such as The Marketplace, Shopwise, Robinsons Supermarket, S&R, Landers, Metro Supermarket, and Joel’s Place, as well as other key partners in the retail industry.
Attendees had the opportunity to sample a diverse array of fresh, seasonal fruits meticulously selected for the occasion. Additionally, they previewed an upcoming in-store campaign set to launch across the country in the coming weeks, aimed at highlighting the new season’s fruit offerings and engaging customers with compelling promotions and displays.
Guests were delighted with an exquisitely crafted grape-inspired menu curated by the Grand Hyatt’s talented culinary team. The menu featured an array of canapés and desserts thoughtfully designed around this season’s most exceptional grape varieties — including the deep-purple Midnight Beauty, the vibrant Crimson, the pure Ivory, and a selection of new seedless reds and blacks.
Following the tasting, guests were introduced to Gary the Grape, the friendly and approachable mascot who will represent Australian Grapes’ consumer marketing efforts across the Philippines throughout 2026.
“It’s fantastic to be back in Manila with such a strong turnout from the Philippines’ leading retailers,” said Jeff Scott, CEO of the Australian Table Grape Association. “The Philippines continues to be one of our most important and valued export markets, and events like today are a chance for us to say thank you to our partners and show them firsthand the quality of this season’s fruit.”
“This year’s crop is exceptional — big, sweet berries with beautiful colour and crunch, backed by some of the best growing conditions we’ve seen in years. Filipino consumers can look forward to a fantastic range on shelf over the coming months,” Mr Scott added.
On the introduction of Gary the Grape, Mr Scott said: “Gary is a bit of fun, but he has a serious job. He’s here to help families across the Philippines recognise Australian grapes instantly — a mark of quality, freshness and trust. We think shoppers, and especially kids, are going to love him.”
“The relationship between Australian growers and Philippine retailers has gone from strength to strength, and we’re committed to continuing to invest in this market. From our orchards in Sunraysia straight to Filipino dining tables — that’s the story we want to keep telling,” Mr Scott said.
The 2026 campaign will include extensive in-store sampling events where shoppers can taste a variety of Australian-grown grapes firsthand. Eye-catching displays will be strategically placed to attract attention and highlight the produce’s freshness and quality. Additionally, the campaign will leverage digital and social media platforms to reach a broader audience, sharing engaging content about the grapes and the regions they come from.
Point-of-sale materials, such as signage and informational brochures, will be designed to clearly identify Australian-grown grapes and educate consumers about the varieties available this season, emphasizing their unique flavors and characteristics.
Australian table grape exports to the Philippines have experienced consistent growth over recent years, establishing the country as one of Australia’s leading import markets for this category. The Philippines’ increasing demand for high-quality, nutritious grapes has driven a steady rise in shipments, supported by a reliable supply chain from Australia.
ATGA anticipates that this positive trajectory will continue into 2026, bolstered by a strong and plentiful supply of grapes, an expanded variety mix that includes both traditional and premium options, and growing Filipino consumer interest in importing fresh, high-grade fruit.
This trend reflects the Philippines’ evolving preferences toward healthier foods and the increasing popularity of imported produce among Filipino consumers seeking quality and variety.
About the Australian Table Grape Association (ATGA)
ATGA is the premier industry organization representing Australian table grape growers nationwide. It is committed to championing its members’ interests through a comprehensive range of activities, including targeted advocacy efforts, in-depth research, and strategic marketing campaigns.
These initiatives aim to elevate the reputation of Australian table grapes by emphasizing their exceptional quality, sustainable cultivation practices, and competitive positioning in both domestic and international markets. By fostering innovation and supporting the industry’s growth, ATGA plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term success and global recognition of Australian table grapes.
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Stacie Harris is a local resident and reporter of the Maple Grove area. Stacie reports on medicine and science for the Maple Grove Report.
