This Week in the Market – edition 138 4 July 2017

As the MMA is expecting  a substantial increase in electricity tariffs when the current energy contract expires in December, it has been exploring various ways of reducing electricity consumption to help offset the impending price increase.As a result, the MMA will be replacing all light fittings with highly efficient LED fittings. Advances in technology have made this possible and areas will include the administration building, car parks and canopy, as well as the Fruit & Vegetable trading floor, Flower Market and Buyers’ Walk.

This solution brings a number of benefits including a significant reduction in energy consumption, is maintenance free for at least seven years, removes around 6900 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions and will improve lighting levels across the site.

Light level testing was completed recently and a tenancy will be fitted out as test site to demonstrate the improved lighting colour and level which we can expect  from the installation of the new generation LED fittings.

It’s hoped major works will commence later this month with completion due in November.

If you’ve paid your 2017/2018 parking permit renewal invoice, simply replace your old sticker with the latest version and dispose of your old sticker thoughtfully.Renewal invoices were due for payment by 30 June. If you haven’t yet paid, please visit the Customer Service Centre today to settle your account in full or call 9258 6123.

Please note, parking permit stickers are not valid until payment has been made. In accordance with operating rule 11.3 (a) a person parking on Market land must display a valid parking permit authorising the vehicle to park in that parking space.

Casual stands in the Fruit and Vegetable and Flower Markets increased by 4% on July 1.The revised fees are $71.40 (incl GST) per day for a casual stand, or $178.45 (incl GST) per day for a casual Flower Stand one week before a major industry day.

Come together and celebrate a wonderful year at the Market at theFresh State Gala Ball on Saturday 26 August at the fabulous Peninsula at Docklands.The prestigious Fresh State awards will be presented, recognising and celebrating innovation, excellence, character and enthusiasm – the essence of the Melbourne Market and the fresh produce community. This year the awards include the new Buyer of The Year award.

The night will be capped off with music and dancing to a live band. Invite your family, work colleagues and your important business customers in the supply chain.  A great opportunity to engage, network and thank your supporters.

For more information and to download the booking form click here.

A reminder the City of Whittlesea is hosting the Melbourne’s North Jobs Fair on Thursday 3 August and is looking for businesses to be involved as stall holders to promote any employment opportunities which may be available.It’s a great opportunity for your business to have exposure to the wider community as well as filling immediate vacancies and identifying future employees.