Johannesburg – Tiger Brands has successfully obtained all the oranges necessary for producing its popular Oros beverage from South African farmers for the second consecutive citrus season.
This achievement signifies a notable change from prior years when the company had to rely on imported oranges to supplement local supplies due to issues in domestic citrus production.
Global shortages in citrus supplies, especially from citrus greening disease impacting major producers like Brazil, have intensified demand for South African citrus.
Consequently, this situation has boosted export parity pricing, which restricts local availability and drives up costs.
Though South Africa is among the top citrus exporters worldwide, local growers typically see more attractive returns in international markets.
“South African citrus is in high demand within a competitive global landscape, making a dependable local supply increasingly critical,” stated Shamiel Randeree, MD Snacks, Treats & Beverages, Tiger Brands, on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.
“By sourcing all of our orange requirements from South African growers, we affirm our dedication to local procurement, ensuring farmers have steady domestic demand, and fortifying the agricultural value chain while reducing our dependence on imports.”
As the largest consumer of orange concentrate in South Africa, Tiger Brands procures around 45,000 metric tonnes – equating to roughly 275 million oranges – each year to produce approximately 3.5 million litres of orange concentrate for Oros (1.75ml 2 litre bottles), the nation’s leading dilutable beverage brand.
In previous seasons, when local citrus supply was limited, Tiger Brands sourced about 65% of its citrus needs locally, obtaining the remaining 35% from overseas markets.
Oranges, particularly the Valencia and Navel varieties, are sourced from top citrus producers across Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and the Western Cape for Oros production.
Harvested during the citrus season from May to July, the fruit is processed into concentrate and sent to Tiger Brands’ beverage manufacturing facility in Roodekop, Gauteng, where between 75,000 and 100,000 litres are delivered weekly for Oros production (around 400,000 litres monthly).
The company’s ability to secure its entire orange requirement locally for the past two seasons reflects its role as a reliable, long-term buyer, providing producers with a stable domestic market and predictable demand.
According to Tiger Brands, achieving 100% local supply illustrates the strength of its long-standing partnerships with local producers and its commitment to bolstering South African agriculture.
This ongoing support has enabled citrus producers to invest in their operations, improve efficiency, and create job opportunities within farming communities.
Suppliers have reported advantages such as investments in water infrastructure, solar energy projects, and initiatives focused on enhancing resource efficiency, including reduced water and energy consumption.
“Partnerships between food producers and agricultural producers are essential for the sustainability of South Africa’s food system,” remarked Randeree.
“By providing a reliable local market for citrus growers, we contribute not only to our suppliers’ success but also to the economic welfare of the communities in which they operate.”
This local sourcing capability aligns with Tiger Brands’ broader goal of increasing local procurement and strengthening domestic supply chains while delivering quality products to consumers.
Oros is among Tiger Brands’ ten core brands identified for significant growth potential.
“For generations, Oros has been a beloved household favorite, known for bringing families together during moments of refreshment,” declared Randeree.
“The ongoing local sourcing of its main ingredient reinforces the brand’s bond with South African consumers and the communities that cultivate it.”
