Premier Fruits landed the coveted Capespan Wholesaler of the Year award at last week’s Re:fresh ceremony in Park Lane.
The New Covent Garden Market trader was given the award ahead of Lichfield company R&RW Bartlett and New Spitalfields Market trader Sunnyfield Veg.
With a board that can boast more than 250 years of experience in the fruit trade, Premier Fruits prides itself on flexibility, customer service and the ability its experience gives it to spot trends and act upon them before the competition.
Technology has been at the forefront of Premier Fruits offer since a comprehensive review of warehousing procedures and equipment. Its units at Nine Elms were completely refrigerated Full computerised traceability was installed, as well as CCTV for stock control and assurances that best practice is being followed. Dedicated ripening rooms for bananas and avocados top that off in a setting that is cutting edge in the wholesale sector.
Premier Fruits’ specialist produce desks are run by fully trained salesmen who are receiving continual professional development. The benefits that bring are not only illustrated by individual performance on the trading floor, but also by the opportunities to recognise achievement through promotion, in some cases to board level.
The company supports its environment by playing a key role in the Covent Garden Market Tenants Association. It also creates important economies of scale through joint ventures with Premier Fruits at Western International and Premier Direct Marketing in Portsmouth.
The judges said: “Premier Fruits has clearly captured the essence of modern wholesaling” and the company’s Jason Tanner told freshinfo: “It puts us to the forefront of the business, where we have been trying to stay for the last few years. We accept this award on behalf of all of our staff and suppliers - they are supportive, dedicated and committed to the company.”
