Simon Matthews is general manager of AgriCoat NatureSeal, a UK-based company which deals in fresh-cut and shelf-life extension technology products for the fresh produce industry.
How did you come to be working in the fresh produce industry?
SM: At university I specialised in crop protection and developed a particular interest in post-harvest technology. That led me on to working on fruit coatings and I have been working with fresh produce ever since.
In a parallel life, what industry would you have been in instead of this one?
SM: I suppose the genetic code I was dealt has ruled out super athlete, film star or rocket scientist. I think I would probably have liked to have been a teacher – trying to pass on some of my enthusiasm for the biological sciences.
What do you see as the greatest challenge facing the global fresh produce industry?
SM: There is still a huge battle to be won in driving more consumption of fresh produce. Great progress has been made and we see more fresh produce now promoted in fast-food restaurants and food-to-go situations. We must learn from other industries to better promote our products. We have the best products and people know they should be eating more – we need to make them more fun and convenient so people reach for a snack fruit or veggie instead of crisps or confectionery.
How much travel is involved in your role? Where has your job taken you lately? Where are you going next?
SM: Too much! I am actually penning this note from a farm in Turkey, but look forward now to a couple weeks at home.
What is your favourite item of fresh produce?
SM: That’s easy. For me nothing beats an English sweet cherry. Though my wife will tell you my favourite is my BlackBerry…
What do you enjoy in particular about your job and what, if anything, would you change?
SM: I enjoy my work greatly. I am fortunate to be working with a great team of ‘can do’ people. With the network of customers and industry contacts around the world, I have to say it’s the people I enjoy most. Inevitably my role has changed as our company has grown. I miss the hands on involvement in the r&d lab.
Who do you admire most in the industry and why?
SM: I really can’t name any particular individual, but I am fortunate that in my work I engage most closely with the innovators and these are the people I admire most – those individuals pushing new ideas.
Would you encourage your children into the industry?
SM: I think that is a lost battle. Both my sons seem to be more interested in engineering and science.
What do you do to unwind after a hard day at work?
SM: I try to cycle to and from work whenever I can. Pedalling nine miles through the country lanes of West Berkshire clears the head.
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