Laurence Olins has been handed a Lifetime Achievement Award for his services to the fresh produce industry at the 2018 FPC Fresh Awards.
Olins graduated from Leeds University with a degree in economics, before joining the family business, Louis Reece, in Spitalfields Market, transferring a year later to Covent Garden Market, where he ran two businesses.
He later went on to become managing director and co-owner of Poupart, eventually becoming chairman of the group of companies that is among the largest in the UK industry.
Olins also played a key role as a non-executive director to companies including Valley Grown Salads, G’s, Reynolds and latterly Grace Foods.
“Thanks to his dedication and passion Laurence has made a colossal impact over 50 years in our industry, and he leaves an inspirational legacy for future generations,” commented Nigel Jenney, chief executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium. “We are delighted to mark his achievements on behalf of the industry.”
Elsewhere at the event, which took place at the Tower of London, Aldi was named Fresh Produce Business of the Year, the event's principal honour. It followed a number of commitments by the discounter towards backing farmers and helping promote fruit and vegetables.
The award capped a good night for Aldi, which also collected the trophies for best multiple retailer, multiple floral retailer and marketing campaign.
“We applaud Aldi for its long-term commitment in the fresh produce sector, and for its strong focus on working in partnership with suppliers,” said Jenney.
Other winners at the event were:
Wholesale Supplier of the Year - GT Produce
Business Service Partner - Polymer Logistics
Floral Supplier of the Year - Flamingo
Foodservice Supplier of the Year - SH Pratt Group
Supermarket Supplier of the Year - Blue Skies
Independent Retailer of the Year - Keelham Farm Shop
Convenience Retailer of the Year - M&S Simply Foods
Multiple Retailer of the Year - Aldi
Multiple Floral Retailer of the Year - Aldi
Marketing Campaign of the Year - Aldi
CSR Excellence - G's Fresh Mushrooms
Innovation of the Year - British Cherry Growers
Best Place to Work - Blue Skies
Young Person of the Year - Freddie Heathcote (Arnott & Mason)
Manager of the Year - Alison Martin (Greenyard Fresh UK)
