All articles by FPJ Staff – Page 84
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ArticleSupplies stable as southern hemisphere season kicks off
The relatively comfortable switchover between northern and southern hemisphere supplies has left the top-fruit game in good shape, despite ongoing issues with exchange rates and sources snubbing the UK in favour of newer markets. Alex Lawson reports
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Special offers on organics to help boost retail sales
Organics sales are still going through a tough time based on the Soil Association report published last week, although Tesco
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Organics needs a no-frills message to boost sales
There is no argument about the fact that organic fruit and vegetables have moved from being a niche market to a mainstream
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Liveries and guilds meet for annual religious service
On 1 April the 69th service of the United Guilds of the City of London was held at St Paul’s Cathedral. It is the only
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Constant promotions under the microscope
How do you change perceptions and convince shoppers to pay more for food at a time of economic hardship?That was the
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ArticleUK research fights for a comeback
The opening of a research giant last week in the shape of the James Hutton Institute has created one of the largest research organisations in the UK and a first for Europe. Anna Sbuttoni talks to chief executive Professor Iain Gordon and tracks what UK-based research has meant for the fresh produce industry
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ArticleJersey Royal gets a lift
The Jersey Royal brand has steadily risen in prominence in the 15 years since its Protected Designation of Origin status was awarded. Elizabeth O’Keefe travels to the island as the first outdoor new potatoes are lifted to give a seasonal update
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ArticlePrices strong as market prepares for supply switch
The citrus market is preparing for the switch in supply between the northern and southern hemisphere, with good prices to be made for those specialising in certain products. Alex Lawson looks at how the key sources are shaping up
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Retailers reconsider their fresh produce presentation
One disappointment I have with UK retailers is they seem to ignore the potential offered by fruit baskets. I suppose
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Meet the deal maker
After three months in the hot seat, Langmead Farms’ new chief executive Bill Thurston has big plans for the business. He talks M&As, new product development and shaking up the salad category with Michael Barker
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ArticleCalifornian stonefruit highlights tough game
The news that the California Tree Fruit Agreement (CTFA) may cease to exist is disappointing.The 77-year-old association
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ArticleRedevelopment or revolution?
Change is in the air at one of the UK’s largest and most profitable fruit, vegetable and flower markets. The goal is to redevelop to become a force to be reckoned with internationally, learning from markets such as Rungis International. However, with three years until any kind of construction gets underway, Elizabeth O’Keefe finds that the road to progress is never smooth
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ArticleSouthern hemisphere shake-up
The shape of southern hemisphere top-fruit supply is changing now that UK retailers are increasingly moving towards sourcing directly from growers, fuel costs are on the up and for the first time, suppliers are under pressure to pre-notify their sendings. Anna Sbuttoni asks how trade is playing out in a challenging environment
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ArticleGood times are here for prepared sector as sales soar
The prepared fresh produce business is on the up, with fruit, vegetables and salads all benefiting from an increase in trip frequency. As penetration and average price both climb, Elizabeth O’Keefe looks at why things are going right for the sector
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Profitability is key to future of wholesale markets
I must confess to a degree of both surprise and scepticism when I read that the business development managers appointed
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Reports underline need for school scheme backing
In response to recent media reports regarding the increased cost of fruit and veg and the effect on vulnerable society groups,
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Supply chain relations should be key focus
To what extent do we really want the government taking a hands-on role in the organisation of retail supply?Do we need an
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ArticleThe credit conundrum
As political events and natural disasters threaten to undermine the confidence of the financial sector, Michael Barker asks whether it will become even more difficult for the fresh produce industry to gain trade credit in future
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ArticleHome-grown hopes
A cold winter has presented a challenge to growers, but now spring is here and light levels have picked up, the main tomato, cucumber and pepper crops are on their way. Elizabeth O’Keefe takes a look at the season and considers the future of the home-grown sector
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ArticleExotics face tough time as pricing hits demand
The exotics sector is suffering from a combination of oversupply and a sales slowdown while prices continue to increase. Alex Lawson looks at the how the various lines are coping and the effects of supermarket promotions on wholesale prices