German wholesale markets

Members of the GFI German Wholesale Markets society met in Stuttgart on 11-12 November to look back on the successful projects undertaken in 2008 and focus on future promotional activities.

At the event, GFI championed the success of new marketing partnerships with Sopexa and EOS (Bolzano Chamber of Commerce's Export Organisation for South Tyrol), which both added to a boom in promotions during the year, as well as the continued link-up with Zespri.

For 2009, the group outlined its marketing measures, including concentrating public relations and media work on raising the awareness of wholesale markets amongst consumers, businesses and political communities.

Germany's wholesale markets will also be exhibiting at Fruit Logistica 2009, which takes place on 4-6 February in Berlin. Following on from the GFI-organised panel discussion event at the 2008 fair, another PR event is planned. 'Some 400 guests will be invited to an exclusive event in an unusual location,' GFI said in a statement. 'More details will follow shortly.'

Additionally, the society moved to re-elect Uwe Kluge, managing director at Bremen's wholesale market, to the board after his initial four-year term came to an end.

'An exceptionally amicable and constructive atmosphere has been generated between GFI members,' said Mr Kluge as he thanked members for their support and confidence during his time on the board. 'All the members are looking forward to the new projects and will do everything in their power to support implementation at local levels.'