It was a night of milestones at the FPC Fresh Awards, as both New Covent Garden Market and Fresca Group took centre stage, each receiving special awards for their outstanding contributions to the fresh produce industry.
The event marked two extraordinary anniversaries, celebrating New Covent Garden Market's 50 years since its relocation to Nine Elms and Fresca Group's remarkable 150 years of leadership in the sector.
New Covent Garden Market: 50 Years of Innovation and Service
In a surprise moment that captivated the audience, New Covent Garden Market was honoured for its half-century of dedicated service to the fresh produce and floral industries. Jo Breare, General Manager of Covent Garden Market Authority, and Gary Marshall, Chairman of the Covent Garden Tenants Association, accepted the award on behalf of the market's entire community. The recognition was for "50 years of dedicated service to the fresh produce and floral industries from its site on the south bank of the River Thames" and for "embracing innovation and change to continue satisfying the shifting demands of both businesses and consumers."
Judges praised the market's longstanding role: "We recognise NCGM for its extraordinary contribution over the past 50 years. This iconic market has become a cornerstone of the UK's fresh produce industry, supplying London and the nation with the finest fruit, vegetables, and flowers with unmatched efficiency and expertise – all while keeping sustainability and quality at its core."
With exciting redevelopment plans underway, the market is set to continue thriving for decades to come, evolving with the times and maintaining its position as a leading supplier of fresh produce.
Fresca Group: 150 Years of Leadership and Legacy
The celebrations didn't stop there. Fresca Group, a family-owned company founded by the Mack family in 1874, was recognised for an extraordinary 150 years of industry leadership. From its humble beginnings, Fresca has grown into one of the most respected fresh produce suppliers in the UK, providing top-quality fruits, vegetables, and flowers to customers both at home and abroad.
Throughout its century-and-a-half journey, Fresca has demonstrated agility, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, forming lasting relationships with customers, suppliers, and communities alike. Judges lauded Fresca's legacy, commenting: "It is with great admiration and respect that we honour Fresca Group’s extraordinary legacy of 150 years of industry excellence. Throughout the generations of the Mack family, Fresca has remained committed to excellence; adapting to changes in the market, embracing sustainability, and consistently setting the standard for the industry."
"This remarkable journey is not just a story of business success but a testament to enduring values, vision, and a dedication to the people and partners that have made it possible. As we celebrate this momentous achievement, we pay tribute to Fresca’s past, celebrate its present, and eagerly anticipate the future ahead."
A Night to Remember
The FPC Fresh Awards turned into a double celebration, with New Covent Garden Market and Fresca Group both receiving well-deserved recognition for their pivotal roles in shaping the UK's fresh produce industry. Gary Marshall of New Covent Garden Market was also awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award, and P&I Fruits Ltd secured a runner-up position in the Fruit & Vegetable Wholesaler of the Year category.
To round off the evening, Jo Breare took to the stage once more to present the Foodservice Supplier of the Year award, sponsored by NCGM, to market customer Woods Foodservice. It was truly a night of celebration and achievement, marking two historic anniversaries and a bright future for both New Covent Garden Market and Fresca Group.
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