08 October 2009, 17:34 PM
  • Staying loyal to a particular wholesaler may prove bad for the environment, a leading academic told the industry last week

“Hundreds of tonnes of CO2 could be cut if retailers sourced produce from their closest wholesaler,” said Dr Andrew Palmer, lecturer from the Cranfield School of Management (pictured).

Delegates at the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) conference heard that many retailers are keen to maintain established, long-term relationships with their wholesalers, regardless of the distance travelled.

Customers visiting London’s wholesale markets drive an extra 500,000km every year instead of going to their nearest alternative, according to new research.*

“Reducing carbon emissions is a big concern for our customers, so we always try to source produce from as close to the store as possible,” said Simon Billingham, manager of Just Natural in Sheffield.

“But then again, quality is our biggest concern so we will travel further afield if we have to,” he added.

“I have a great relationship with my current wholesaler. The produce is excellently priced and of great quality so I have no reason to go elsewhere,” said Charlotte Dyas, manager of The Good Life fruit and vegetable shop in North Wales.

To help retailers reduce their carbon footprint, Dr Palmer suggests transporting produce by rail instead of road, or combining loads to reduce the distance travelled.

“Independent stores can save money and help the environment by using more energy efficient vehicles, and collaborating with other businesses when having stock delivered,” he concluded.


*Research from Cranfield School of Management, September 2009.