Marketers didn t like the name chinese gooseberry so they renamed the fruit kiwi after a bird that it resembles

Marketers didn’t like the name Chinese gooseberry, so they renamed the fruit “kiwi” after a bird that it resembles.

Have you ever wondered why the fruit we now commonly call “kiwi” is not called the Chinese gooseberry? Many people are familiar with the juicy, green fruit with black seeds inside, but few know the origin behind its name change. It all started with the marketers who wanted to introduce the fruit to the world in a more appealing way.

In the early 20th century, this fuzzy fruit, native to China, was initially known as the Chinese gooseberry. However, marketers realized that the name did not resonate well with potential consumers. The association with geese and the unfamiliarity with Chinese produce hindered the fruit’s marketability.

To overcome this marketing challenge, a decision was made to rebrand the fruit with a new name. The marketers turned to New Zealand, where the fruit was being cultivated on commercial scales. New Zealanders were already familiar with a national bird called the kiwi, which is small, flightless, and has brown, hairy feathers.

Inspired by the bird’s attributes and its resemblance to the fruit’s exterior, marketers saw an opportunity to capitalize on the bird’s popularity and introduce a new name for the fruit. Hence, the Chinese gooseberry was transformed into the “kiwi” fruit.

This rebranding strategy turned out to be a stroke of genius. The name change instantly sparked curiosity and interest among consumers. It also aligned the fruit with the kiwi bird’s natural image, highlighting New Zealand as a unique origin for this exotic and flavorful fruit.

The new name gave the fruit a fresh identity, allowing it to stand out in the market and attract a wider consumer base. The kiwi fruit became associated not only with its delicious taste but also with the exotic nature of New Zealand, adding a certain appeal to its consumption.

Over time, the kiwi fruit gained immense popularity globally. It became known for its high nutritional value, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The fruit thrives in several countries, including Italy, Chile, and the United States.

Today, the term “kiwi” is universally recognized as the name for this vibrant fruit, leaving the moniker “Chinese gooseberry” a thing of the past. The rebranding not only emphasized the fruit’s uniqueness but also contributed to the cultural identity of New Zealand.

In conclusion, marketers recognized the need for a name change when introducing the fruit, originally known as the Chinese gooseberry, to a broader audience. By associating it with the kiwi bird, they created a captivating narrative that elevated the appeal and marketability of the fruit. This rebranding strategy allowed the kiwi fruit to become a global sensation and an essential part of many people’s diets.

Sources:

• Time.com - The Biography of the Kiwifruit