The Figary: Bringing Quality Figs from South Africa to the World

Founded in 2015 by three Hugo siblings, The Figary is a family-owned business that set out with a clear vision—to add value to a family fig farm by marketing figs that didn’t meet export specifications. This simple idea has since blossomed into a thriving business, producing high-quality fresh and dried figs for both local and international markets.

Starting with a focus on local fresh fig sales and the production of sulphur-free dried figs, The Figary’s commitment to quality and sustainability quickly led to year-on-year growth. Today, The Figary’s fresh and dried figs are widely available throughout South Africa. The locally-grown fresh figs are distributed to various farm stalls, delis, and fruit merchants, where they are offered in several convenient packaging options, including a 300g punnet, 1kg jumble, and a 1kg tray. These offerings have made their mark in the local market, with the company’s reputation growing as a provider of premium figs.

Located just one hour from Cape Town International Airport, OSDRIFT FARM, the heart of The Figary’s operations, benefits from the fertile soils along the banks of the Breede River. To ensure the freshness of their figs, the company operates a refrigerated truck that delivers fresh produce six days a week during the season.

The Figary’s international expansion has been equally impressive. In 2019, the company took its first step into the global market with Class 1 export specifications. A year later, in 2021, The Figary sent its first batch of dried figs abroad. Today, the company’s reach extends to the UK, EU, Russia, Canada, the Middle East, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong.

To cater to the unique preferences of each market, The Figary has developed specialty packaging formats. These include the 300g pack and a 600g place-packed tray designed specifically for the Canadian and Hong Kong markets. In 2021, the company also launched their “Delicious Little Figs”—160g tubs featuring the smallest and most delicate figs, which have become a popular choice for customers worldwide.

The harvest season is a time of unity and hard work at The Figary. Starting in early February, the community comes together for three months of hot, sticky days, working together with perseverance and a shared commitment to quality. The long hours of labour culminate in a joyous celebration, marking the successful completion of the harvest. This sense of camaraderie and the dedication to producing the best figs possible are central to the company’s success.

The Figary’s ability to turn figs that were once deemed unsuitable for export into a valuable commodity is a testament to the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of the Hugo siblings. By combining sustainable farming practices with a strong focus on quality, The Figary continues to thrive both locally and internationally, bringing the taste of South African figs to homes around the globe.

With each year, The Figary grows stronger—offering not only a premium product but also a story of hard work, perseverance, and the power of family. From the sunny fields of OSDRIFT FARM to international markets, The Figary has proven that with the right vision, commitment, and passion, anything is possible.