The UK’s retail and wholesale markets need to develop a more unified approach and message if they are to capture the hearts and minds of the 21st century consumer.
That was the clear message from head of Manchester markets Krys Zasada, speaking at the NABMA conference in Glasgow on Tuesday. Latching onto one of the principal new-found aims of the association of British market authorities, Zasada said that, while national, regional and global food strategies were all to be applauded, their implementation has left a lot to be desired.
“From a social perspective, food strategies in places such as Bradford, Manchester, London and Glasgow are clearly good news,” he said. “It is an effective way of mapping out problems and trying to identify solutions at a local level. But to have a real impact, what NABMA must do is develop a food policy - it is up to us to put in place the policies that we should be lobbying on.
“Markets cannot deliver the changes and transformations the nation wants alone. But [as a sector] we have to try new things and not be afraid of failure. The only way we can move the agenda forward is by taking risks and accepting that sometimes things won’t work. The real trick is to learn the lessons when that happens.
“Markets need to take the food to the people, to share good practices and make sure that the messages about our work are going to the outside world.”
Zasada launched a new Arndale retail market in Manchester last week. “We have 68 companies in there and for the first time fruit and vegetables play a significant role. Many of those companies are sourcing from the city’s wholesale markets and traders are working in partnership to strengthen the links between the two sectors,” he said.
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