Officials at New Spitalfields Market, the largest fresh produce wholesale centre in the UK, have reacted with dismay to a food provision plan outlined by organisers of the 2012 Olympic Games, after it failed to mention the market, despite it being just a javelin's throw from London's main Olympic site.
The proposals, published by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games in its Food Vision report this week, have also called for the estimated 330 tonnes of fresh produce needed for the games to be entirely organic.
Speaking to UK weekly the Fresh Produce Journal, Spitalfields' business development manager Tim Williams suggested the London 2012 organisers had missed an opportunity to engage a significant local business.
'Despite our many attempts to connect with the relevant authorities, they have completely ignored the existence of the largest wholesale market in the UK, which is sited half a mile from the main Olympic Park, Olympic Village and press and broadcast centres,' he commented.
Jim Heppel, chief executive of the Spitalfields Market Tenants Association, said the market would be able to deliver fresh fruit and vegetables directly to the Olympic Park.
By using 'sustainable, ecologically friendly vehicles', he added, the enviromental impact and security risks associated with holding the games could also be reduced.
Spitalfields currently has an annual turnover of some €550m, making it the largest in the UK.
Anna Sbuttoni, features editor of FPJ, wrote: 'This is a big letdown for an industry that is trying hard to get on board and make the most of the event.'
Caterers hoping to supply the London 2012 Olympics will be asked to submit their bids next spring, with appointments due to be made towards the end of 2010.
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