The farms have been recognised as Heroes for their contributions to sustainability in the following areas:
Fruitways is a specialist producer, packer, and marketer of apples and pears with a 90-year legacy. Owned by the Moodie Family and the Molteno Brothers Charitable Trust, the company manages around 1,300 hectares of orchards and operates three modern packing facilities.
Guided by sustainability, Fruitways balances productivity with ecological responsibility, focusing on its Carbon Footprint, Water Footprint, and Waste Management. The company is equally committed to community well-being in Grabouw and the broader Elgin area, supporting childcare, education, housing, and health through its clinics, crèches, and resource centres. Fruitways also contributes to local initiatives such as the Grabouw Development Association, the Elgin Foundation, and the Ahold Group, strengthening partnerships between local businesses and communities.
In 2025, a solar plant has been commissioned at Valley Packers, with the Melpack and Molteno Packhouses set to follow in 2026 and 2027. High-speed doors and air curtains are being installed to minimize the loss of cold air from our stores, further reducing both water and energy consumption required for cooling.
We have implemented tracking systems to monitor driver behaviour, reduce idling times, and optimise delivery routes. When replacing older vehicles in our fleet, we prioritise fuel efficiency and the use of low-sulphur fuels. In addition, our shipping line partners use low-sulphur fuel alternatives or have installed scrubbers to reduce emissions.
High-tech monitoring of soil and moisture conditions enables more precise irrigation management. Continued investment in low-flow drip irrigation systems helps to significantly reduce water usage. Water treatment plants allow for the recycling and reuse of packhouse flume water on an ongoing basis.
Regular maintenance and replacement of evaporative condensers are essential to ensure optimal water and energy efficiency. Similarly, ongoing maintenance and upgrades of irrigation mainlines, as well as water and sewage pipelines, help to minimise water losses and prevent wastage across our operations.
The farm operates its own compost plant.
We are committed to conserving our mountain fynbos ecosystem.
All fruit not packed and sold fresh are recycled into juice, concentrate, cider, or apple cider vinegar. Fruit pulp from processing is reused as compost for our orchards. We monitor and manage material inputs to reduce waste, and wherever possible, transition to fully recyclable packaging. Where packaging choices lie with customers or retailers, we actively encourage their shift to recyclable alternatives. Grubbed trees are shredded and recycled as mulch and a carbon source for soil microorganisms. We also work with retailers to reduce food waste by removing unnecessary “best before” dates. All domestic and general waste from our farms, packhouses, and villages is collected, sorted, and managed at our Graymead Waste Management Facility.
