Last week, representatives from wholesale markets across the world converged on Paris, France, for the second WUWM (World Union of Wholesale Markets) conference.
Marc Spielrein, chairman of Rungis Wholesale Market in Paris, introduced the occasion, which coincided with the 40th anniversary of Rungis. “The holding of the second WUWM conference here in Paris marks the final celebration of the 40th anniversary of Rungis, the world capital of fresh produce,” he said.
Both Mr Spielrein and WUWM chairman Graham Wallace stressed the importance of wholesale markets and the common values espoused by different markets located across the globe.
“Wholesale markets not only provide a very efficient way of distributing fresh produce, they are also increasingly important for the support they provide to small and medium-sized businesses,” Mr Wallace told delegates. “Markets must be a model of best practice for energy efficiency, food hygiene and safety, health, the treatment of animals and sustainable development.”
During the conference, various models for the future of wholesale markets were offered up, the importance of sustainable logistics and cooperation among all members of the supply chain was stressed, and the role that brands can play in the development of wholesale markets was discussed.
Concluding the conference, Mr Spielrein said that the days when wholesale managers acted purely as hands-off real estate managers were over.
“We must be more proactive, working on meeting the needs of consumers, investing in necessary things like marketing and communication,” he said. “We must work hand-in-hand with the operators to develop strategic plans for the future.”
Following the conference, delegates were offered a guided tour of Rungis wholesale market, said to be the largest food market in the world.
