Much of the Moreton Bay Region was affected in some way by the recent weather event which caused havoc across South-East Queensland. For Independent fruiterer and A better choice! retailer George Macaron of Lawnton Country Markets, it was a tough week, with localised flooding restricting customers from accessing his store and the fruit and vegetable supply chain being impacted by the flooding of the Brisbane Markets® at Rocklea. However, the swift efforts and dedication of those working through the supply chain, including independent fruit and veg shops, has ensured fresh fruit and vegetables are now back on the shelves throughout Queensland.
“We lost sales due to customers not being able to get to the store. We also had to close the shop early over the weekend so our staff could get home safely,” said George.
“Unable to get produce for a couple of days from the Brisbane Markets® meant that we had to source some of our supplies directly from local farms.
“We are fully stocked, and customers are able to get to our store now, so we are looking forward to a busy week ahead.”
George agreed that the swift actions of the Brisbane Markets® and the wholesalers who operate at the Markets, meant that the distribution chain was able to get up and running again quicker than expected.
“We went to the Markets on Wednesday and again on Thursday and were able to purchases most of our requirements.”
The Brisbane Markets® is home to Queensland’s only central fruit and vegetable market and is the state’s most important centre for the marketing and distribution of fresh fruit and vegetables. It records annual trade in excess of 700 million kilograms of produce including a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables.
Businesses right through the fresh produce supply chain who have been affected by this wild weather need the support of the Queensland community. By shopping at your local, independent fruit and veg shop, you are not only supporting them, but are supporting the businesses who operate from the Brisbane Markets®, most of which have suffered significant losses from the floods.
Despite the great work done to get trade back up and running, there is still much to do, and consumers can help by buying local. Local, independent fruit and veg shops provide customers with a better choice of quality, freshness, and service. They give customers the opportunity to shop as close to home as possible while supporting their local community.
About A Better Choice!
The A Better Choice! program supports over 500 independent retailers and wholesalers across the country who supply more than half of Australia’s fresh produce each year. In Queensland, the A Better Choice! program is run by Brismark and supported by the Brisbane Markets. More information about A Better Choice! including retailers and wholesalers can be found by visiting www.abetterchoice.com.au
Media contacts:
Karen Tilke, Business and Service Delivery Manager, Brismark
Phone: 0417 207 233 or Email: [email protected]