Britain’s ‘most famous vicar’, Reverend Richard Coles will present trophies to the industry’s finest produce and floral professionals this September.
The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) – the UK’s fresh produce trade association – is thrilled to announce that foodie and television celebrity the Reverend Richard Coles will host the 2022 edition of its prestigious FPC Fresh Awards, which takes place in London on 16 September.
Often described as Britain’s ‘most famous vicar’, Richard is a former Church of England parish priest, a broadcaster, author and original member of 1980s pop band The Communards.
Today he is a contributor to mainstream television and radio; co-presenting BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live, and regular guest panellist on shows such as Would I Lie To You?, Have I Got News For You and QI. Previously, Richard has starred in Celebrity MasterChef, The Big Painting Challenge and Strictly Come Dancing.
Alongside his broadcasting duties, Richard is a self-confessed foodie as well as a prolific best-selling author of both fiction and non-fiction titles. He a popular figure on social media with almost 500,000 followers on Twitter.
Nigel Jenney, CEO of FPC, explains: “Having appeared on both Celebrity Masterchef and as a judge for the Great British Menu, the Reverend Richard Coles is well versed in fine food. At the FPC Fresh Awards 2022, we look forward to introducing Richard to the outstanding businesses and individuals who grow, pack, deliver and market the array of amazing fresh fruits and vegetables available in the UK every day.”
Jenney continues: “With a career spanning pop stardom to priesthood, Richard will no doubt have plenty of incredible tales and lessons to share with our produce and floral professionals on their celebratory night. Richard is well known for his humour and originality, and FPC is proud to secure his unique presence for the 2022 edition of our FPC Fresh Awards. It promises to be a brilliant evening.”
The FPC Fresh Awards celebrates and honours the outstanding achievements of fresh produce and floral businesses and individuals involved in trading with the UK market; from the best growers and suppliers to the finest service providers, exceptional marketers and distinguished personnel from across the globe.
This year’s edition moves to the luxurious venue of The JW Marriott Grosvenor House, an historic 5-star hotel on Park Lane in London. Each year around 500 guests attend this unmissable date in the produce calendar.
Reverend Richard Coles will attend the entire gala evening to host the awards ceremony, including presenting the 16 awards to their lucky winners. In addition, Richard will attend this year’s inaugural Supplier Showcase networking drinks reception, as well as the event’s special black-tie dinner.
Expanded Award Categories
This year’s FPC Fresh Awards features 16 awards spanning four categories: Individuals, the Supply Chain, Retail Excellence and Business Excellence.
The winners will be chosen by an independent panel of judges and announced by Reverend Coles on 16 September 2022.
Winners gain unparalleled industry recognition, plus the use of the distinctive FPC Fresh Award-Winning logo on their marketing collateral to reinforce their point of difference.
There are four brand new trophies up for grabs at FPC Fresh Awards 2022:
International Grower Of The Year
Other awards include:
Individual Awards
Rising Star Of The Year
Manager Of The Year
Lifetime Achievement Award
Business Awards
Best Place To Work
Sustainability Excellence
Agritech & Innovation Excellence
Wholesale Fruit & Veg Supplier Of The Year
Wholesale Floral/Plant Supplier Of The Year
Supermarket Fruit & Veg Supplier Of The Year
Supermarket Floral/Plant Supplier Of The Year
Foodservice Supplier Of The Year
Business Service Partner
Best Marketing Campaign
Retailer Awards
Industry representatives, as well as consumers, can also show support for their favourite retailer operating in the UK by voting in the following categories:
Multiple Fruit & Veg Retailer Of The Year
Multiple Floral Retailer Of The Year
Convenience Retailer Of The Year
Online Retailer Of The Year
All of the awards are proudly sponsored by FPC members; including: IFCO, Total Produce, Freeths, Westfalia UK, Aptean, PML, IPP, ICL UK, New Spitalfields Market and ASDA (IPL).
For further information contact:
Kelly Shields (Regulation & Communications Manager) on kshields@freshproduce.org.uk
Nigel Jenney (CEO) on nigel@freshproduce.org.uk