New Covent Garden Market is celebrating a milestone - 50 years at its iconic Nine Elms site. Originally based in Covent Garden, central London, the market relocated and officially opened its 35-acre South Bank site on 11 November 1974, with Queen Elizabeth II conducting a ceremonial opening the following year.
This September, the market was honoured with a special 50th anniversary award at the FPC Fresh Awards, marking half a century of being at the heart of London's food supply chain.
Gary Marshall, Owner of New Covent Garden Market wholesaler Bevington Salads and Chairman of Covent Garden Tenants Association, was also recognised at the FPC Fresh Awards with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Reflecting on the market's enduring success, Marshall says: "It is testament to the continued passion, commitment, and expertise of every trader here that we can say we were the market leader a century ago, the market leader 50 years ago, and we remain the wholesale market leader now."
New Covent Garden Market is more than just a market; it's a hub of community and innovation. It supports community-focused initiatives like Mission Kitchen, a collaborative workspace providing food entrepreneurs with access to kitchen facilities, business mentoring, and a network of industry experts.
The market is also committed to sustainability, working with suppliers and traders to reduce food waste and promote responsible sourcing. As a 'zero to landfill' site, it showcases how wholesale markets can lead the way in sustainable practices.
Wanda Goldwag OBE, Chair of New Covent Garden Market Authority, captures the spirit of this thriving institution: "New Covent Garden Market has been the beating heart of London's food supply chain for 50 years. Providing the freshest produce to our vibrant city is more than a job for our wholesalers; it's their livelihood, and for many, it's a baton to pass on through generations."
With 50 years of history behind it and a continued focus on community, sustainability, and excellence, New Covent Garden Market is well-positioned to remain a leader in the wholesale market for years to come.
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