Fresh produce importer Mack Multiples of the Fresca Group says it had 'robust contingency plans' in place to ensure its banana operations in Colombia were not affected by the recently proposed strike action by the country's workers.

A four per cent pay rise for Colombian banana workers was confirmed by trade union Sintrainagrolast week, but despite the country avoiding strike action, Alistair Smith of charity Banana Link has warned that ongoing price pressuring tactics from UK retailers is creatinguncertainty.

Nevertheless, Matt Smith, commercial manager for bananas at Mack Multiples, says that Colombian bananas remain a key part of the firm's substantial UK fresh produce imports operation.

He exclusively told FPJ: 'These pay discussions take place every two years and, naturally, we keep in close contact with our Colombian growers who keep us informed throughout the discussions.

'Given that strike action was averted there has been no disruption to supply, but we have detailed, robust contingency plans in place to cover a wide range of different scenarios such as this. Over the years our Colombian growers have played a key part in the development of our banana business. Their strong focus on the UK as an export market is of great value to us and our customers. Colombian bananas remain part of our long-term planning.'

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