History
Wilko Fruit is built on a long-standing family tradition in the fruit trade. What began nearly a century ago as a local trade in fresh produce has grown into a modern, international service provider and importer, with a sharp focus on quality, service, and long-term relationships.
Over four generations, we’ve combined deep product knowledge with a constant drive to adapt to changing markets. With strong roots in Europe and a global sourcing network, we remain true to the values that shaped us from the start: reliability, integrity, and passion for fruit.
The First Generation: J.P. van der Zwaard
The family’s journey in fruit began in 1934, when J.P. van der Zwaard founded his own fruit trading business, selling cherries and strawberries. He started by borrowing money from his aunt each morning, paying it back by evening, repeating this routine daily until he had saved enough to formally establish the company under his own name. Within four years, the first exports were made, and even during World War II, the business remained active and resilient.
The Second Generation: M.A. van der Zwaard
In 1969, the company was passed on to M.A. van der Zwaard, marking the second generation. Under his leadership, the company, now renamed Zwaardfruit, entered a new phase of international sourcing. Strategic relationships were developed with growers in Italy, Spain, and France, many of whom still work with the family today.
The Third Generation: Wilko and his brother
In 1991, Wilko van der Zwaard and his brother took over the company’s shares, representing the third generation. This period saw further growth and expansion. In 2002, the company relocated from Breda to Barendrecht, positioning itself closer to the logistical heart of the Dutch fruit trade.
Founding of Wilko Fruit B.V.
In 2007, Wilko sold his shares in Zwaardfruit and returned to Breda, where the family business had originally been based. Together with Joyce van der Zwaard, he founded Wilko Fruit B.V., aiming to build a company rooted in the same entrepreneurial spirit and product focus that defined its early years.
New facility in Prinsenbeek
A new chapter began in 2019 with the move to a modern facility in Prinsenbeek, strategically located between the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp. The new site marked a major step forward, with investment in advanced cold storage, in-house packaging, and logistics infrastructure. These upgrades allowed Wilko Fruit to further optimise operations and respond more effectively to seasonal dynamics and customer requirements.
A Modern Family Business With New Identity
Today, Wilko Fruit operates as an independent service provider with a clear focus on delivering quality and continuity.
Led by Alejandro van der Zwaard, the fourth generation in the family business, and a new brand identity, the company combines decades of experience with a forward-looking mindset and a strong commitment to it’s partners. With in-house operations and strong sourcing programs, Wilko Fruit specialises in stonefruit, citrus, grapes, and berries, supplying retail, wholesale and foodservice across Europe, year-round and with full control.
Led by Alejandro van der Zwaard, the fourth generation in the family business, and a new brand identity, the company combines decades of experience with a forward-looking mindset and a strong commitment to it’s partners. With in-house operations and strong sourcing programs, Wilko Fruit specialises in stonefruit, citrus, grapes, and berries, supplying retail, wholesale and foodservice across Europe, year-round and with full control.