Supplying fresh produce to local retailers requires a two-pronged approach: adhering to strict quality standards and navigating the complexities of the supply chain.
In this episode, Trevor Abrahams, a Western Cape fruit farmer helps to unpack the secrets to successful supermarket supply as a local farmer. Learn about quality standards, packaging, and building strong relationships with retailers.
Abrahams explains that compliance with minimum quality standards is not just a matter of preference but a legal requirement. The department of agriculture, land reform, and rural development often sets these standards, mandating specific criteria for products ranging from deciduous fruits to fresh produce.
Legal requirements and licences
“There are certain legal requirements for a business to supply the local markets. For instance, your registration with SARS, your VAT registration, and then also UIF if you make use of labour.
“And then there are product-specific licences that you need to have and accreditations that you need to have, like the ethical standards or permits that you must have; meaning that in terms of your workforce, you have to comply with all the legislation,” he explains.
He further adds that price negotiation between producers and retailers is a nuanced process. While producers strive for profitability, retailers are cognisant of maintaining competitive pricing. He also shares more about the nitty-gritty with pack-housing.
“Producers often need to work with accredited packhouses to ensure their products comply with retailer-specific standards. Packhouses possess the expertise and infrastructure for sorting, grading, and packaging produce to meet retailer specifications,” he adds.
In this episode, Abrahams also discusses:
- Marketing and promotional support:
- Sales presentation and branding;
- Regulatory constraints and more.
Catching up with this week’s #SoilSista
This episode also features Corteva Agriscience #SoilSista Zanele Lukhele who grew her humble animal feed shop into a thriving agro-dealership. All while overcoming challenges and expanding to rural areas.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
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Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast.
ALSO READ: Biological farming: A holistic approach to food production
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