WHO WE ARE

Officially established in 1988, Betko Varsprodukte has grown from a local distributor to a respected international supplier of apples and pears to more than 40 countries.

We are a second-generation, family-operated business. We value and prioritise stewardship, sustainability, social responsibility and a high work ethic.
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OUR HISTORY & HERITAGE

Dating back to the early 1980s, Japie Groenewald started off trading the fruit that he bought from local farmers and packers to various parts of South Africa. Being a highly motivated entrepreneur, he soon developed a vision of what he believed Betko could grow into. 

Betko’s first mechanical packing line was installed in 1992, following a second in 1994. In 1996, Betko’s first refrigeration plant was built and over the years more refrigeration capacity and packing machinery were added to the site that is still being used today.

True momentum was gained from 1997 onwards, after the deregulation of the apple and pear export industry from a government-controlled, one-channel model to being completely unregulated. Exports started to rapidly overtake local business with a focus mainly on serving retail in the United Kingdom, the European continent and the wholesale sector of West African markets.


Today we are still building on the foundation laid for us by Japie. We strive to continually improve, be the best in what we do and to create a unique and positive environment, from start to finish. Our team is committed to consistently delivering premium produce and continuing to be flexible in meeting ever-changing market needs.

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True momentum was gained from 1997 onwards, after the deregulation of the apple and pear export industry from a government-controlled, one-channel model to being completely unregulated. Exports started to rapidly overtake local business with a focus mainly on serving retail in the United Kingdom, the European continent and the wholesale sector of West African markets.


Today we are still building on the foundation laid for us by Japie. We strive to continually improve, be the best in what we do and to create a unique and positive environment, from start to finish. Our team is committed to consistently delivering premium produce and continuing to be flexible in meeting ever-changing market needs.

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OUR PEOPLE & COMMUNITY

Betko employs roughly 350 local staff members at our facilities in Villiersdorp. Our dedicated team is the heartbeat of Betko. We place high value on long-term relationships and are proud that a significant portion of our staff has been part of our team for twenty years and more.

We are committed to making a strong contribution to our direct social environment and to giving back to our community. Betko is involved with several schools in and around Villiersdorp, with special emphasis on high school scholarships.