Freshgro is driving an emphasis on innovation with new parsnip and carrot products.
The producer organisation (PO) has launched a baby parsnip in punnets into Sainsbury’s and Waitrose and is increasing its focus on the snacking market.
The business reported stable results in accounts submitted to Companies House this week. Its turnover stood at £13.6 million in the year to 31 December 2010, down from £13.9m the year before. But pre-tax profits rose from £34,728 in 2009 to £43,478 in 2010.
Chairman Bill Eastwood hailed “improved operational efficiency during the year, reducing both factory and overhead costs”.
During 2010, Freshgro developed a new line in Chantenay slices and significantly improved its high-care facilities.
MD Martin Evans told FPJ: “The baby parsnips are at the luxury end of the market but we have to adapt and innovate with traditional British vegetables.
“We have to engage with consumers who are willing to be a bit more experimental.”
The business remains recognised under the PO scheme and has used PO funding to invest in new product development.
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