UK government’s border control receives thumbs up from FPC
An ambitious overhaul of the UK’s border control systems has been met with resounding approval from industry leaders, including Nigel Jenney, chief executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC). The initiative aims to enhance national and biosecurity while optimizing the flow of goods, aligning closely with Jenney’s long-standing advocacy for an industry-focused approach to border […]
Artificial intelligence at retail will still require human element
It seems that AI (artificial intelligence) has been dominating the news, touching every aspect of our daily life. The controversial topic has been shown to possess many positive attributes for business, but has also been linked to various concerns about its ability to replace human activity. There have also been concerns as to the use […]
What is it about Waitrose, one of the more expensive shops in the UK, that continues to attract customers?
Over the past decade, Aldi and Lidl have created quite a stir in the UK – and risen in market share – courtesy of low, low prices and their expansion of stores. But some customers aren’t buying them, or at least not buying in them. Tesco, for instance, has remained a constant atop that share […]
Aldi slashes prices again, this time on 10 fruits and vegetables
Two weeks ago, Aldi knocked down prices on 30 items storewide, including a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. Though the dips were subtle, they were nonetheless significant for as the discounter remains the best bargain in the eyes of consumers. On Thursday, it did it again by reducing the costs of 10 fresh produce […]
Jooste: The changing face of the fresh produce workforce
I recently turned 65. After an old-school, shoulder-to-the-wheel, hard-working career of 30 years in fresh produce, I decided to use my skills to assist companies in strategic plans for marketing, communication and sustainability. The idea was to work one or two days a week. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it worked fine. Fast forward to 2023, […]
Grocery price inflation dips again; Aldi gains more market share in UK
Grocery price inflation continues to drop in the UK, according to new data from Kantar Worldpanel, good news for consumers hoping to see those numbers get back to pre-pandemic levels. Overall, a 2.2% decline in the month leading up to Aug. 6 means inflation in the sector now stands at 12.7%. Though Kantar did not […]
AVA Magnum strawberries shine in decadent dessert on Scottish fine dining menu
Scottish berry supplier Angus Soft Fruits, which made a splash with the world’s largest crown of strawberries for the King’s Coronation, has found its way into another decadent display for its AVA Magnum strawberries. Scottish Chef Paul Tamburrini, known for his fine dining establishment Tamburrini & Wishart, will be incorporating AVA Magnum’s into its menu […]
State of Blueberry report shows shifts in UK imports, dire straits for domestic growers
The International Blueberry Organization unveiled its highly anticipated 2023 State of the Global Blueberry Industry report on Aug. 15, via a live presentation. The analysis thoroughly examines the sector’s challenges and strengths, confirming a shift in production towards the counter season. “Sometime either in 2023 or 2024, the industry will see more fresh volumes shipped […]
