All articles by FPJ Staff – Page 122
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Covent Garden’s memory lane
I hope I am around long enough at least to enjoy reading the next chapter in the story of the UK’s most famous flower,
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It’s life, Jim - but not as we’ve known it
The theme of this year’s Re:fresh Conference - ‘Beyond the Big Four’ - could not be more pertinent.As the
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Sheerness ship shape
The Port of Sheerness is one of the major gateways for fresh produce arrivals into the UK. The facility has long been recognised as a major player in conventional shipping, but with the trend towards container shipping becoming more popular and the exchange rate changing the shape of the UK market, the port is seeking to diversify and strengthen its position. Anna Sbuttoni visited the Isle of Sheppey.
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Stepping up the pace
Since the Dutch government announced its aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 per cent, grower co-operative The Greenery has jumped into action. Elizabeth O’Keefe visited the Netherlands to investigate the innovative projects coming to fruition.
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Back on track
Jersey Royal potatoes enjoy great sales when in season and the island’s growers are hoping that Mother Nature will pick on someone else this year and allow them to get back on their feet. Doris Lee Butterworth talks to leading producers and asks them what is in store.
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Internet makeover for Chilean data tool
Information technology is playing an ever-increasing role in the arena of fresh produce. This month, Chilean consultancy Decofrut is revamping its online image, while Paragon software is doing the business for both foodservice specialist Fresh Direct and Sainsbury’s. Meanwhile, German packaging film manufacturer alesco has launched a new web portal.
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Organic downturn hits headlines - but is it fact or fiction?
This quarter has been dominated by talk of the recession, with data suggesting that the organic produce sector is experiencing a sales slump far beyond its worst predictions. But are the claims of an organic downturn nothing more than media hype? Laura Gould reports.
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Reading small print not a top priority for shoppers
There is nothing wrong with giving a fresh produce consumer as much information as possible. Indeed, hopefully it goes part of
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Banana war can only end in tears
Asda fired yet another salvo in the never-ending multiple price war on bananas last week, by cutting the cost to just 68p a
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Tenderstem comes of age
A relatively new crop on the marketplace, Tenderstem broccoli is managing to battle through the recession and establish itself as a must-have niche line in UK multiples. Elizabeth O’Keefe visits the vegetable’s main areas of production in Kenya to find out how the industry is faring.
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South Africa holds steady
Despite the tough economic climate, a good early market for pears in the UK and Europe has provided an excellent start to the South African top-fruit season. Weather conditions prior to the start of the season were favourable and the total harvest looks promising in terms of volumes, fruit size and quality, leaving producers and exporters cautiously optimistic. Louise Brodie reports.
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Tight supplies made worse by difficult weather conditions
Banana supplies have traditionally been tight during the winter months. However, with poor weather conditions across key growing regions, industrial action and the spike in sales brought about by Fairtrade Fortnight, product has been even harder to come by than usual. Alex Lawson reports.
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Fruiterers’ feast plays host to distinguished guests
The Fruiterers held their annual banquet at the Mansion House during the evening of February 12. A number of very
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Campaigns must reap rewards
In my experience, the fresh produce industry at all levels has always had a somewhat love-hate relationship with the consumer
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Labour regulation even more vital
The Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA) has this week reported a largely pleasing response to its performance from the very
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Andalusia presents united front
For the first time, more than 18,000 growers across the region of Andalusia have united under the newly formed organisation, Hortyfruta, to represent and strengthen their standing on the European stage. Alex Lawson visited the fertile fields of southern Spain to find out more.
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A perfect hat-trick
Last year’s Re:fresh Awards were a bumper affair for foodservice specialist Fresh Direct, which walked away with not just one, but two accolades to its name. Added to that, Parkfresh, a business acquired by Fresh Direct just a few weeks before the ceremony, also picked up its first ever Re:fresh prize. Laura Gould finds out how the 12 months since its triple triumph have panned out for the firm.
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Dutch set on expansion drive
Dutch salad producers have secured a good reputation in the UK and are well- known for providing high-quality fresh produce in plentiful volumes. Despite the challenging economic climate, innovation remains firmly on the agenda. Doris Lee Butterworth reports.
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Soft-fruit category toughs out a difficult patch
The soft-fruit category has been fraught with difficulties in the last three months, with the weak sterling causing headaches and late Spanish supply pushing up prices. So how is the berry trade handling the situation? Anna Sbuttoni reports.
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Fresh produce gears up for annual chocolate fight
Easter may still be a month away, but it is already being promoted heavily in most major supermarkets. Fresh produce is