FPC calls for urgent industry support

The Fresh Produce Consortium FPC) is calling for urgent support for wholesale businesses who supply fresh produce beyond the major high street retailers.

FPC has written to Defra Secretary of State asking for sector specific financial support for businesses across the fresh produce supply chain and for urgent acceptance of businesses in the flower and plant sector to continue to trade during the national lockdown.

Many wholesaler and foodservice businesses are keen to maintain their operations and support independent retailers, as well as to provide supplies to the public sector. In any lockdown many consumers are solely reliant on independent retail outlets and street markets.

“Without more support we’re reaching a critical stage for some businesses to remain viable. The closure of the hospitality and food service sector is a massive blow to many businesses as they lose their key customer base. Whilst the devasting direct impact on pubs and restaurants has been recognised, it is vital that those businesses, often SMEs, who supply into this sector are not overlooked,” said Nigel Jenney, Chief Executive of FPC.

“Certain retail businesses such as garden centres can remain open from 5 November; we’ve asked that businesses supplying cut flowers and plants which meet social distancing requirements are included. These businesses supply similar if not the same products as garden centres.”

Within the same markets there are businesses which supply fresh fruit and vegetables, some of which have been able to continue to trade by adapting their business models to supply direct to UK consumers. It is essential for them to survive as they supply 35% of all fruit and vegetables in the UK.

At the time of the first national lockdown FPC established a free online platform for businesses to promote their products direct to UK consumers. Any business can register to use the platform: https://www.onyourdoorstep.shop/