Total Produce has retained its title as Britain's biggest fresh produce company, edging out Poupart and G's for number one spot in the annual FPJ Big 50.
The 2018 FPJ Big 50, which ranks UK businesses according to turnover, saw a huge amount of movement as the volatile currency situation and changing retail supply arrangements created winners and losers throughout the supply chain.
The UK operations of Irish multinational Total Produce topped the chart with revenue of £507.4m in 2016. That was enough to secure top spot ahead of Poupart (£478.5m) and G's (£444.3m). The top five, which was unchanged from the year before, was completed by Muñoz Group and Fresca.
Several companies had storming years, rising up the rankings aftersignificantly increasing turnover in the latest financial year. They included Greencell, which is riding the avocado wave up eight places to 16th as turnover increased 38 per cent to £167.4m; berry specialist Angus Soft Fruits, which increased sales by 30 per cent to £124.1m and rose seven places to 27; and Staples Vegetables, which rose up to 33rd position after adding £20m in revenue to reach £98.4m.
Karsten UK makes its first appearance in the FPJ Big 50 at 39th place after a strong year for the South African fruit supplier.
Direct Produce Supplies, Freshtime and Asplins PO all return to the list after missing out in 2017, while Lincolnshire Field Products, Stubbins, Manor Fresh, Peter Gilding and Del Monte UK drop out of the chart.
FPJ editor Michael Barker said: 'This was a year of huge change in the UK fresh produce industry. The combination of the political impact of Brexit, currency changes and retail supplier reviews led to some companies having to closely examine the way they operate in the new climate. Others have been riding the wave of hugely popular consumer products such as avocados and berries. It makes for fascinating reading.'
FPJ subscribers will receive their copy of the FPJ Big 50 in the post and via the digital edition on Friday 15 December. Non-subscribers can purchase copies for £25 - please call 0207 5010315 to order.
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