Year in review

With 2008 underway, it's time to once more reflect on the year that has been.

The vegetable and fruit industries have seen mixed fortunes with drought and water issues being high on the list of issues to be addressed. Having said this, the supply of product has remained very buoyant.

Brisbane Produce Markets Wholesalers reported another very strong calendar year in 2007, building on the record throughput values achieved for the 2006/07 financial year.

The healthy eating message of programs such as ‘Go for 2 & 5’ is having an impact which is good for our industry. There is certainly a compelling argument for both State and Federal governments to support ongoing promotion of healthy lifestyles and health awareness.

 The Mandatory Code became a distraction for most, which is yet to prove its worth in promoting good commercial practice. Both BML and Brismark continue to argue for amendments to the code which facilitate flexibility in the trading relationship between growers and wholesalers.

BML progressed its $30 million South Gate Development, purchased an adjacent 9.7 hectare site for $7 million and gained clarity regarding the future development of a new access road, car parks and building platform to the north-west of the existing site.

 With a number of projects set to be progressed this year, BML has embarked on a capital raising by way of a Rights Issue to existing shareholders, with a view to raising $9.96 million.

Prior to Christmas, BML issued a Master Planning document to stakeholders laying the foundations for the ongoing growth and development of the site over the coming decade.

Ongoing strength within the retailing and foodservice sectors is supporting growth of and investment in the industry, with a very positive outlook for the year ahead.

 The rain which has fallen over many areas throughout the State in the past few weeks has gone some way towards easing the pain of the drought, despite the flooding in some areas.

Let's hope it is the start to a prosperous 2008, with many good seasons ahead.