The 2024 FPC Fresh Awards, hailed as the Oscars of the fresh produce industry, once again delivered a night of glitz, glamour, and recognition for the heroes who power the nation’s fresh food supply.
From visionary growers to innovative wholesalers and retailers, this spectacular event honoured the individuals and organisations who make the industry thrive and who continue to push the boundaries of excellence.
Taking home the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was none other than Gary Marshall of Bevington Salads at New Covent Garden Market. Gary’s 45-year career has seen him shape London’s wholesale and retail market, standing as a figure of strength and leadership.
His impact on New Covent Garden Market, not just as a businessman but as Chairman of the Covent Garden Tenants' Association, has been transformational. Whether driving redevelopment projects or leading charitable efforts, Gary Marshall’s commitment and influence have truly earned him the title of industry hero.
The Fresh Produce Business of the Year, was claimed by the exemplary BerryWorld Group.
BerryWorld’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and ethical practices has been nothing short of remarkable. From pioneering 100% recycled plastic packaging to developing water management solutions, BerryWorld is paving the way for a greener, more responsible fresh produce industry. Their continuous efforts to enhance both environmental and ethical standards highlight their leadership in the sector.
Monumental Moments
A monumental moment of the evening was the recognition of New Covent Garden Market with the 50-Year Anniversary Award for its exceptional half-century of service to the fresh produce sector.
And if that wasn’t enough, Fresca celebrated a historic milestone with a 150-Year Anniversary Award, acknowledging the family-run business’s incredible century and a half of excellence in delivering top-quality fresh produce. These titans of the industry have not only shaped the past but are setting the foundation for the future.
Growing the Future of Fresh Produce
The Grower of the Year Award was split into two subcategories – Fruit & Veg and Floral & Plants – and celebrated those who are pushing the boundaries of farming excellence.
The Fruit & Veg Grower of the Year went to BerryWorld Group in partnership with Emery Soft Fruits, a family-run farm renowned for its sustainable farming practices and innovative approach to berry production. Emery Soft Fruits’ dedication to water management, biodiversity, and reducing carbon emissions showcases their all-round commitment to environmental responsibility and future-proof farming.
On the floral side, Double H Nurseries took home the Floral & Plants Grower of the Year award for their trailblazing work in removing peat from all growing media and their investment in sustainable plant production.
In the international arena, the coveted International Grower of the Year went to Euro Fruits, India’s leading exporter of premium table grapes to the UK and Europe. What sets Euro Fruits apart is its exceptional consistency and reliability, having never lost a customer since its founding in 1992.
The company’s long-standing success is driven by an energetic and committed team that works tirelessly to ensure top-quality produce is delivered every season, year after year.
Celebrating Innovation and Sustainability
Technology was at the forefront, with Hall Hunter Partnership clinching the Technology Champion of the Year award. By investing in cutting-edge AI and renewable energy solutions, they’re revolutionising their operations and setting a new standard in sustainable farming practices.
Over the past three years, Hall Hunter has invested millions into advanced picking and packing machinery, and their use of solar energy has helped them not only boost efficiency but also set a new sustainability standard within the agricultural sector. Their bold approach exemplifies how technological advancement can drive growth and secure the future of farming.
Equally inspiring, the Innovation Excellence Award was won by PES Technologies, a company revolutionising soil health analysis with a smell-based test that offers unprecedented biological insights. This innovative product delivers real-time data to growers’ mobile phones, enabling them to make environmentally sustainable decisions on the spot. The judges called this groundbreaking product a "global game changer," empowering farmers with vital information that leads to smarter, more profitable, and sustainable farming practices. PES Technologies has effectively plugged a critical gap in the market with its affordable, cutting-edge solution that is set to have a far-reaching impact on global farming practices.
Meanwhile, the Agritech Excellence Award went to HarvestEye, whose innovative data insight technology is transforming the way growers monitor crops. With its second-generation handheld device, HarvestEye allows farmers to capture real-time data on crop size, count, and weight before harvest, helping to maximise yield and reduce waste. By streamlining this critical part of the agricultural process, HarvestEye is giving growers a competitive edge in sustainable and regenerative farming, ensuring that they can adapt to market demands more effectively than ever.
The Sustainability Excellence Awards at the 2024 FPC Fresh Awards recognised the pioneers driving forward sustainability across three critical areas: ethics, supply chain, and climate change. Each of the winners demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, showing that fresh produce businesses can thrive while safeguarding both people and the planet.
The Ethical Award went to BerryWorld Group for their inspiring work in supporting women’s health in their South African growing operations. BerryWorld addressed a significant barrier to employment by ensuring that no female worker is excluded from work due to a lack of access to sanitary products.
Their initiative included providing sanitary items, bins, and conducting health workshops in collaboration with the Waitrose Foundation. This focus on women’s health has not only improved attendance but also boosted the confidence and well-being of their female workforce, embodying a true commitment to ethical operations.
On the environmental front, Albert Bartlett was honoured with the Supply Chain Award for their comprehensive approach to sustainability. As the UK’s leading potato supplier, they have taken ambitious steps to minimise their environmental impact, tackling everything from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to enhancing biodiversity.
Albert Bartlett’s efforts to implement good water stewardship, maximise recycling, and minimise waste are setting a new standard for how companies can integrate sustainability throughout the entire supply chain. By working with experts and continuously striving for net-zero emissions, they are leading the way in responsible and sustainable food production.
Last but not least, the Climate Award was won by SoilPoint Humic for their groundbreaking Soil Booster product. This innovative, organic alternative to chemical fertilisers helps regenerate depleted soils and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, offering a sustainable solution for a range of crops.
SoilPoint’s dedication to climate-smart agriculture is providing farmers with tools that not only protect the environment but also enhance the long-term health of their lands. Their work underscores the importance of addressing climate challenges head-on, making a significant impact on both the agricultural industry and the planet.
Celebrating the Nation's Favourite Retailers
Retailers also took centre stage, with the coveted Multiple Fruit & Veg Retailer of the Year going to Lidl. Known for its exceptional quality and affordability, Lidl’s commitment to offering the freshest produce at competitive prices has earned it top marks with customers. The retailer’s fantastic selection of fresh fruit and veg, coupled with its customer-centric approach, makes Lidl a deserving winner.
In the other retail categories, Sainsbury’s was crowned Multiple Floral Retailer of the Year, impressing with its abundant range of fresh flowers and plants that consistently delight shoppers.
Co-op bagged the title of Convenience Retailer of the Year for its commitment to local communities and high-quality British produce, while Tesco claimed the honour of Online Fruit & Veg Retailer of the Year, lauded for its seamless online shopping experience and fresh, long-lasting produce. Marks & Spencer reigned as the Online Floral Retailer of the Year, known for its unique and premium quality bouquets.
Special Thanks to our Sponsors
As the evening celebrated the industry’s best, special thanks were extended to the fantastic sponsors who made the night possible.
Their support has helped ensure the FPC Fresh Awards continues to be the premier event recognising the giants and innovators of the fresh produce world.
The Heart and Soul of the Industry Celebrated in Style
The 2024 FPC Fresh Awards were a resounding celebration of the passion, innovation, and dedication driving the industry forward.
From growers and wholesalers to retailers and everything in between, this event encapsulated the heart and soul of the fresh produce industry – a night where the heroes driving our industry were rightly recognised for their invaluable contributions.
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