France: National wholesale market day on the 22nd of November

On the 22nd of November, France will have the first national day of wholesale markets. The theme of the day, which will take place at the Rungis international wholesale market is; "Sustainable proximity in the food of the French". The French Federations of wholesale markets, who is organising this day, hopes that synergies will be created between producers, wholesalers, detail traders and consumers at this event. They also want to bring to light, the central role of the wholesale marke, as a purchasing point for the shops.

The day will be opened by Sylvia Pinal, minister of trade, industry and tourism. During this day an exclusive study, held by Harris Interactiv, will be presented. This concerns the new consumption tendencies and the relationship between the consumers and their local shops. Michel Bernier, European commissioner of domestic market and services, will speak on the European issues and input concerning the food supply. Two debates will also be held, lead by Benoit Julien, a journalist specialised in the food industry.

Rungis' connected wholesale markets supply 45 million French people and trade over 4.5 million tonnes of fresh products every day. Over 26,000 people are employed by the French Federation of wholesale markets, spread over 20 location.