This Week in the Market – 10 December 2019

Edition 250

In this week’s Market News:

– Drug and alcohol testing continues at the Market
– Have breakfast on us when you complete the Market survey
– A Better Choice to hit TV screens

Market News

Drug and alcohol testing at the Market

Random drug and alcohol testing is currently being conducted at the Market, and so far, the results have been pleasing.
The random testing and selection is being carried out by Fit4Duty, an external NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities) accredited tester. Random drug and alcohol testing will continue to be conducted at the Market to ensure a safe working environment for all market users.
The MMA received positive feedback from those tested, where many said they found Fit4Duty’s testing process to be quick, simple and easy.
The introduction of drug and alcohol testing is a great win for safety at the Market, and an effort that has spanned several months. In the lead up to testing Market users were reminded that the Market is a drug and alcohol-free site and were educated and supported on how to do the right thing to create a safe working environment for all.
We would like to thank all those who have been tested so far for their cooperation and also those who volunteered themselves to be tested.
We look forward to your continued support in creating a safe working environment for everyone.

Tell us what you think

Every year the MMA distribute the Market satisfaction survey to get feedback and insights on how we’re going, what’s working, what can be improved and how we can assist your business. The data collected is used to improve the operations, facilities and opportunities for businesses at the Melbourne Market.
The survey for the fruit and vegetable market is now live and you can access it by clicking here.
As a bonus, the first 65 people to complete the survey will receive a $15 voucher to use at participating Market cafes!

A Better Choice 2020

A Better Choice will be rolling out a Victorian advertising campaign during the Australian Open tennis tournament in early 2020 on Channel 9.

The campaign focuses on the expert knowledge and service consumers can expect from their local greengrocer and will be partly filmed at the Melbourne Market.

The campaign will encourage the consumer to “go to those who know” demonstrating that your greengrocer sources the best in fresh produce from wholesalers and growers at the Melbourne Market.

This is the first big rollout of an A Better Choice TV commercial in Victoria, so there’s never been a better time to be a part of A Better Choice.

Sign up today and check out the A Better Choice social channels below.
And remember, if local greengrocers are doing well, then the whole supply chain benefits.

A Better Choice Feedback
Do you have feedback or questions about the A Better Choice program?
Feel free to send an email to abetterchoice@melbournemarket.com.au.

At another of their sites, The Costa Group recently had a safety incident where a forklift operator was injured when not wearing a seatbelt. It’s been a timely reminder for the Costa team here at the Melbourne Market that wearing seatbelts when operating a forklift is essential.
Thanks for sharing Cam.
Always wear your seatbelt when operating a forklift!

Taiwan delegation

The Melbourne Market had the pleasure of hosting a Taiwanese delegation for a tour of the facility last Tuesday.
The tour was arranged through Taiwan’s Council of Agriculture whose aim is to help young farmers obtain knowledge and skills in agriculture practice and agribusiness operation.
The diverse group of 23 delegates was made up of primary producers, farmers, aquaculture and academia from Taiwan.
Interpreter Alice Tsou kept the conversation and questions flowing from the engaging and interested group who were impressed by the Melbourne Market facilities and the business operations of market tenants.
The group also enjoyed the warm breakfast and coffee after the tour!

A message from Foodbank Victoria

The last day for Market donations in 2019 will be Tuesday 17 December.
We look forward to returning to the Market on Monday 6 January 2020.
We’d like to extend a warm thanks to the Market community who generously supported us in 2019.
We wish you all a safe and enjoyable break and see you in the New Year!

Banana artwork fetches $120,000

In a story that left us scratching our heads, Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan recently sold his banana artwork at the international gallery Perrotin in Miami for a whopping $120,000. The real headscratcher was the fact that the artwork was simply an actual banana duct taped to a wall!
It got us thinking, the Melbourne Market could not only be a venue for trading fresh produce but could now rival the Lourve in Paris for priceless art!
Pass me the duct tape…

Industry News

Record haul for top-end mangoes

Mango growers in Darwin, Northern Territory are wrapping up a record-breaking season, with over three million trays harvested since the first fruit was picked in July. The record volumes are largely due to the early start to the season, which usually runs from October through December.
Read more on Produce Plus.

Australian avocado production grows

Australia’s avocado production has risen by record 11 per cent, with growth forecast to continue over the coming years.
The growth in production is complemented by a steady rise in domestic consumption, with Australian consumers eating more avocados than ever before.
Read more on Produce Plus.