The Australian Fresh Produce Alliance (AFPA) is pleased to announce the unanimous election of Mr Richard Clayton, Managing Director of Australian Produce Partners, as AFPA Chair for the 2025 term. With decades of experience working in the fresh produce industry, Mr Clayton will take over the role from Piñata Farms' Gavin Scurr.
"I am honored to take on the role of AFPA Chair and look forward to working with industry leaders, government and retailers to create a thriving future for Australian fresh produce. My priority is to support growers by improving our sector's viability while ensuring we continue to deliver quality produce to consumers at home and abroad," said Richard Clayton, AFPA Chair.
"Throughout 2024 Gavin Scurr has provided outstanding leadership, driving the AFPA's efforts to address workforce and sustainability challenges and enhance technical market access for Australian fresh produce. I sincerely thank Gavin for his dedication and the progress he has achieved for our industry," said Mr Clayton.
"The last few years have been an incredibly difficult time for industry, plagued by rising input costs while at the same time we are seeing an overall decline in the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables in Australia. These challenges coupled with ongoing pressure to make fresh food cheaper, changes to industrial relations, migration reform and new environmental sustainability reporting continue to put pressure on industry's growth," said Mr Clayton.
For more information:
Australian Fresh Produce Alliance
www.freshproduce.org.au