2003 - Crisis or Opportunity?

2003 promises to be a tough year for growers that are left behind and lacking profitable growth. For those people ready to face up to the harsh commercial climate that is on our horizon however, 2003 could be the year of opportunity.

The impending price war on the High Street threatens to reduce further the grower's NET returns and will test each and every part of the produce industry. But this situation should not be treated as all doom and gloom, but a challenge to be met head on.

We think that growers should ask themselves the following questions:

- Am I planning ahead effectively?
- Do I run the business from the best commercial angle?
- Am I taking all possible opportunities to maximise my yields?
- Does every punnet of my class 1 fruit go to a retailers shelves? If Not, WHY NOT?
- Is my marketing company doing everything they can do to safeguard my interests?
- Am I received proper support from my marketing company?

Just being a member of PO is not enough anymore; complacency must be avoided from every section of our industry. Questions must constantly be asked of both yourself and especially your marketing company. Being told how lucky you are to be in a particular PO or selling your fruit to a certain retailer is not enough to ensure profitable futures. It's time to face the facts, spread your nets to catch the most fish. Your fruit is more valuable than you realise.

Stand up and be counted in 2003.

Spring 2003