Gail woods

Established in 1974, the Meritorious Service Award acknowledges individuals who consistently promote and support the initiatives of FMA and their respective State Chamber.

Recipients of this prestigious award exhibit a genuine interest in the welfare of the Horticultural Industry, with a specific focus on the Wholesaling sector across all Central Markets. Their proven track record of business success, combined with strong personal and business ethics, sets them apart as deserving recipients of this honour.

Fresh Markets Australia (FMA), a leading organisation in the fresh produce industry, honoured two outstanding individuals at the Hort Connections Gala Dinner held recently. Gail Woods was presented with the highly esteemed FMA Meritorious Service Award.

Gail Woods, a highly respected figure in the fresh produce industry, has been actively involved for many years. Her significant contributions to Brismark and FMA have had a lasting impact on the industry. As the former General Manager of Brismark from 2012 to 2020 and the current General Manager of FMA, Gail’s visionary leadership has played a pivotal role in shaping the organisations.

In addition to her role at FMA, Gail serves as the Deputy Chair of Freshcare, an organisation that provides internationally recognised assurance standards for the fresh produce and wine grape industries in Australia. She is also a staunch advocate for the five Central Markets across Australia, which represent fruit and vegetable wholesalers. Gail tirelessly champions the industry at both the state and national levels, working to support its growth and success.

Gail’s involvement in various marketing programs aimed at promoting the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables underscores her dedication to the industry. She has also been instrumental in advocating for fair practices and transparency through her work on the Horticulture Code of Conduct. Furthermore, Gail’s involvement with FreshTest has facilitated low-cost testing for wholesalers and growers, ensuring the quality and safety of fresh produce.

Gail’s exceptional commitment to the industry and the Central Markets earned her the Meritorious Service Award, a prestigious accolade that recognises her outstanding achievements and contributions.

Premier Fresh Australia has partnered with NutriKiwi again this year to offer buyers a flavourful and nutrient-rich fruit for everyone to enjoy.

Premier Fresh has been partnering with NutriKiwi since its conception back in 2014. General Manager of NutriKiwi, Michael Leach said they’ve been working together for a long time now.

“It’s been a long-term relationship with Joe Manariti [Executive General Manager of Premier Fresh] and his experienced team spanning back to 2014. NutriKiwi values this relationship which has been built on mutual respect and trust,” he said.

NutriKiwi is a New Zealand based company that transports kiwifruit, blueberries, and avocados to Australia. Since starting their company back in 2014, they’ve invested in promoting their brand through a mix of different initiatives. The key theme across all their brand communication has been and continues to be the health benefits of kiwifruit, particularly the immune boosting effect it can have on one’s health.

Michael said the brand works on being innovative and engaging with its customers.

“The brand strives to stand out above all others via innovative promotions, point of sale and the use of our mascot Mr NutriKiwi,” he said.

This year, NutriKiwi has decided to launch a campaign to win an exciting trip to New Zealand. There, the winner will have a chance to go to the NutriKiwi Orchards and experience a hands-on getaway.

The promotion period lasts from June to August 2023 and to win, one must “stack it high and watch it fly.” In other words, a display with the biggest and best showing of NutriKiwi fruit in Victoria and Tasmania gets a chance to win a trip to the NutriKiwi New Zealand orchards (there are 3 trips to be won).

You can find this delicious fruit at Premier’s Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth trading floors.