A delegation of eight fresh produce growers from South Korea, representing the Korea Export-Free Co. Ltd, visited New Covent Garden Market on May 8. The cooperative, based on Jeju Island, sought insights into the workings of the UK's largest wholesale market.
The group, primarily radish producers, explored the differences between the market's wholesaler and catering sectors. They began their visit with a tour of the original Buyers' Walk, where they engaged with Gary Marshall, Managing Director of Bevington Salads and Chair of the Covent Garden Tenants' Association. Marshall provided insights into the market's ecosystem, highlighting the interplay between businesses, suppliers, and customers, with price dynamics influenced by supply and demand.
Paul Grimshaw, Managing Director of Direct Delivered Produce Ltd (D.D.P), shared that his company holds the Royal Warrant for HRH King Charles III, supplying the Royal household. The tour continued to the new Buyers' Walk area and concluded with a session at the Flower Market.
Tommy Leighton, Market Press Officer, noted, "It was a very informative visit for the group. I'd like to thank Gary and Paul for their time and the information they passed on to growers/exporters who are genuinely interested in finding a route into the UK market through the wholesale sector. Together, we answered lots of questions about the supply chain, finding the right partner, packaging, and many other topics."
Source: New Covent Garden Market