This Week in the Market – 19 May 2020

Edition 265

In this week’s Market News:

– Push-ups for mental health
– Melbourne’s best greengrocer
– Upcoming advisory committee meetings

Market News

Latest Coronavirus (COVID-19) information

There have been no changes to COVID-19 restrictions in the Market during the past week.
Detailed information regarding the Coronavirus and its impacts on Market operations can be found on our website at www.melbournemarket.com.au/melbourne-market-coronavirus-covid-19-response/.
Social distancing and good hygiene is still the best tool we have to stop the spread of the virus. When at the Market you should remain at least 1.5 metres away from fellow Market users wherever possible, and make sure you are regularly washing your hands with soap and water.
The critical piece of advice for Market users is; if you are feeling unwell in any way, you should stay at home and seek medical advice. Do not attend the Market for work, or to purchase flowers or produce if you are feeling unwell in any way.

Push-ups for mental health

The Market Community are known for getting behind a good cause, and Barker’s Fresh Produce is no exception. The boys from Barkers are embarking on the ‘push-up challenge’ to raise money and awareness for mental health.
Michael, Tim, Jason and Haydn are aiming to complete 3,046 push-ups each in 21 days, with money raised going to Headspace.
Headspace is a youth mental health foundation that helps young people aged 12–25 years who are going through a tough time. Through 55 centres across Australia, Headspace provides general and mental health advice, education and employment services, and help with alcohol and drug issues.
You can follow the progress of the Barker’s team (and their biceps) on their Instagram page or donate to the cause by visiting https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/team/13001-barkers.

If you, or someone you know, are experiencing increased worry and stress during this challenging time, and in need of mental health support, there are several services available to you.

Headspace – 1800 650 890
Lifeline – 13 11 14
Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636
Salvation Army – 1300 662 217

Welcome Carts ‘n’ Parts to the Market

Your electric cart and buggy needs are now conveniently located in EFS2 with new tenant Carts ‘n’ Parts joining our Melbourne Market community.
Having operated for over 15 years in Queensland, the team have now expanded into Victoria to serve their customer base better.
Electric carts are essential for getting around the Market, and Carts ‘n’ Parts recommend getting regular services and maintenance checks on your vehicle to minimise any downtime in your busy schedule.
Carts ‘n’ Parts also have a vast range of commercial new and used carts available for sale, as well as everything you need when it comes to accessories and parts.
Join us in welcoming business owner Lee and the Carts ‘n’ Parts team to the Melbourne Market.

Melbourne’s Best Greengrocer

The Herald Sun’s ‘Best of Melbourne’ polls ask readers to vote on different categories each week, from the best hairdressers to food trucks.
Last week Melbournians voted for the city’s top greengrocer, which was dubbed as the ‘juiciest’ poll yet.
There were 35 finalists in the running, with the top 10 spots awarded to deserving recipients.
Well done to Carter Bros. Fruit and Veg who took out 1st place and dubbed ‘Melbourne’s best greengrocer’.
To see who else made the top 10 list click here to visit the Herald Sun website.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The next advisory meetings are scheduled for June, and while the format of the meetings may be a little different, with the need to use technology to adhere to social distancing guidelines, they will still go ahead.
Speaking to your advisory committee members is an effective way you can raise key issues with the MMA.
To find out who your advisory committee members are, click here, and talk to them about the Market issues that affect you before the next meetings in June.

Queens Birthday Public Holiday

The Market will be closed on Monday 8 June for the Queen’s Birthday public holiday.
If your parking permit only allows access on a day that falls on a public holiday, and you would like to come to the Market on an alternative adjacent day, you will not be charged for parking and can enter the Market. However, your regular bay may not be available. Please see a Market Relations Officer on arrival for instruction.

Aprons still available

A Better Choice merchandise is getting increasingly popular, so much so, that you’ll be able to purchase a variety of different promotional items soon, so keep an eye out!
For now, don’t miss out on the A Better Choice aprons; you can check out a sample by visiting Art & Style today.
The aprons cost $20+GST each; for those wanting to go with a dual-brand option, it will cost an extra $5 per apron (this is approximate depending on the intricacy of your logo).

A Better Choice feedback
Do you have feedback or questions about the A Better Choice program?
We’d love to hear from you, send an email to abetterchoice@melbournemarket.com.au.

Staying informed

Many businesses and government organisations are holding webinars and short courses to keep you informed about the latest impacts of the COVID-19 crisis, and what your business can do to succeed during this time. See a selection of webinars and courses that may be of benefit to your business, listed below.Food industry during COVID-19 and surviving a new recession
Melbourne’s North Food Group and FCW Lawyers are holding an online panel discussion that will cover the recent impacts faced by the food industry, and what you can do to give your business the best chance of survival. Thu 21 May, 10:30 am – 11:30 am. Click here for more details.

Australia’s economy in the face of the pandemic
Melbourne’s North Food Group, Bank of Melbourne and Matthews Steer invite you to an insightful webinar on the current micro and macro economic situation in Australia. Tue 19 May, 8:00 am – 9:00 am. Click here for more details.

City of Whittlesea business webinars
City of Whittlesea has provided a range of free webinars over the last weeks from cashflow, mental health and marketing. You can view all their past webinars via their YouTube channel.

Tax support for small business
Delivered by the Australian Taxation Office, this 60-minute webinar provides information on how the Government’s stimulus package can help your small business. Click here for more details.

The COVID-19 Industry Response Program
This 12-week online program, delivered by LaTrobe University, is designed to help businesses adapt and innovate in the face of unprecedented change. The program is designed to give business owners the mindset, resources and community they need to succeed. This free program is delivered 100% online with real-time workshops, expert mentoring and online learning. Click here for more details

Industry News

E-grocery: a change in status quo

Online grocery has seen a boom in sales as a result of Covid-19. Now, e-tailers are seeking solutions to the challenge of meeting quality expectations on fresh produce. Read more on Produce Plus.

Farmer and food delivery service team up to provide refugees with fresh food

Food delivery service EASI and Australian farmer Catherine Velisha have partnered to provide fresh and takeaway food delivery to refugees during the lockdown. The move is to help those who are having a hard time getting fresh food in times of Coronavirus and who are not receiving any Government assistance. Click here to read more.