Breaking into public-sector sales: Public bodies are increasingly trying to source local produce, and growers should cash in says Jack Shamash

摘要

Until recently, most growers were not interested in selling directly to the public sector. They preferred to sell their produce to supermarkets or packhous-es, while allowing hospitals and schools to get their supplies through specialist distributors.However, over the past few years a great deal has changed. With the recent escalating interest in food quality, schools and hospitals are under pressure to use more healthy foods. And the interest in the environment means that the public wants locally sourced food. In addition, the Government has been encouraging public bodies to get their fresh produce from local suppliers. As a result, growers are starting to see the public sector as a potentially profitable market for their goods.