People Power Takes Centre Stage at the Fresh Awards 2026

If there’s one thing every business in the fresh produce and floriculture world knows, it’s this: people make it happen. From the warehouse teams keeping supply flowing, to brilliant managers inspiring innovation and wellbeing champions shaping workplace culture — your people are your biggest asset. And now, there’s a stage as grand as their impact to celebrate them.

Entries for the 2026 FPC Fresh Awards are officially open, and this year’s People and Workplace Achievements category is your chance to shine a spotlight on the individuals and initiatives that make your organisation a better place to work and a stronger force in the sector.

From rising young talent bursting with ideas, to managers who lead from the front, to teams who quietly deliver excellence day in, day out — our sector runs on human brilliance.

Why These Categories Matter More Than Ever

Across the fresh produce and floriculture supply chain, businesses are navigating recruitment challenges, skills shortages, wellbeing priorities and leadership development like never before.

These awards shine a spotlight on organisations and individuals who are:

• Building positive workplace cultures

• Investing in talent development

• Leading with purpose

• Creating environments where people genuinely thrive

And let’s be honest — that deserves applause!

Categories Designed To Showcase Your Best People

The People & Workplace Achievements category includes standout opportunities to tell your story:

Rising Star Of The Year

Know someone at the start of their career who is already making serious waves? This category celebrates emerging talent demonstrating exceptional potential, drive and impact. It’s a brilliant way to recognise the next generation shaping the future of fresh produce.

Manager Of The Year

Leadership matters. This award honours an individual whose commitment, vision and ability to inspire has made a tangible difference to their team or business.

Team Of The Year

Behind every success story is a group of people pulling together. This category recognises collaboration, resilience and collective excellence.

HR Initiative Of The Year

Have you implemented a programme that’s improved recruitment, retention, training or staff engagement? If your people strategy is delivering measurable impact, this is your platform.

Best Place To Work

This is the big cultural statement. If your organisation has created an environment where employees feel valued, supported and motivated — shout about it. This award recognises businesses that prioritise wellbeing, development and workplace satisfaction at every level.

Winning — or even being shortlisted — sends a powerful message to current staff, future recruits and customers alike. It says: we invest in our people.

Tips for a Standout Entry

To make your submission sing:

• Tell your story with heart — judges are looking for impact, not just numbers.

• Include evidence — testimonies, outcomes, staff engagement figures or cultural shifts make your entry tangible.

• Be bold in your narrative — if it mattered to your people, it matters to the awards.

Now’s Your Moment — Submit Your Entry

Submitting an entry is simple, supportive — and free. Entries are now open via the official awards platform, and the clock is ticking towards the closing deadline. Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning with an even stronger proposition, there’s never been a better time to celebrate your workplace achievements.

So go on… give your people and your workplace the recognition they deserve. After all, a great team isn’t just part of your business — it is your business.

ENTER THE FRESH AWARDS NOW!