Fruiterers conference to chart produce sector’s progress amid turbulence

A decade after its last conference, the fresh produce industry’s livery company the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers is preparing for another interactive conference and networking event.

Recognising the unique global political, economic and social landscapes within which the fruit and vegetable trades are now operating, the March 16 conference will take place under the title ‘Navigating turbulence in the produce supply chain and beyond’.

The event will take place at One Great George Street, Westminster, and the organisers have put together a series of eminent speakers from the public and private sectors.

From an opening session delivered by the Rt Hon Michael Jack CBE through a schedule featuring industry luminaries including Andrew Burgess, John Shropshire OBE and Tony Reynolds, to a concluding session from Dr Clive Black of Shore Capital, the day will explore issues from the changing climate to the living wage, and the validity of investing in the produce industry to the ever-­‐changing consumer psyche.

The goal of the conference is to give attendees a wider perspective on the current state of the industry, its future potential and their role in it, said Dennis Surgeon, who will open the conference as the incumbent Master of the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers.

“The company attracts members from all walks of life and it is this mix of interests and skills which creates a vibrant and relevant organisation that retains its historic character and style, but is aware of the need to continually refresh its outlook and membership with new thinking and energy.

“We are not about to become a regular event organiser, as we do not see this as a primary area of focus. However, it is a matter of pride that the company acts as a catalyst for the fruit industry, enabling different sectors to come together at events and social gatherings,” Surgeon said.

Tickets costs £150 for non-­‐Livery members and £120 for Livery members. For more information: www.fruiterers.org.uk/conference

What is the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers?

Over half of the membership of the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers is actively engaged in the fruit industry, while the other half is drawn from a wide range of professions and occupations operating in the City of London and wider community.

In a press release, the company said its aim is to continue to be an influential fellowship, promoting the interests of the fruit industry, the Lord Mayor and the City of London Corporation.

Its key goals are:

● To promote excellence across all sectors of the fruit industry

● To support education and research within the fruit industry

● To support the Lord Mayor and the City of London Corporation

● To be active in raising funds for charity

● To foster, within the Livery, a spirit of good fellowship