Australia’s national carrier Qantas Airways has been commended by AUSVEG for actively promoting its use of local produce with the slogan “Think Fresh – Proudly Supporting Australian Producers” prominently displayed on its redesigned in-flight meals.

 

“As Australian vegetable and potato growers continue to battle rising costs, lower margins and higher cost of living pressures, it gives growers confidence to see an iconic brand reinforcing AUSVEG’s call to buy Australian produce,” said AUSVEG spokesperson Stefan Oberman.

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers.

“Qantas’ decision to promote the fact that it is “proudly supporting Australian producers” is not surprising, given most Australians want to buy Australian-grown vegetables according to the latest consumer data from Project Harvest,” said Mr Oberman.

Project Harvest is a monthly tracking survey of Australian vegetable consumption which examines consumer behaviour and attitudes in relation to various vegetable commodities.

It is positive to see that more and more companies are heeding AUSVEG’s call to source local produce for use in its meals.

AUSVEG continues to actively campaign for companies and the Australian government to procure local produce whenever possible.

“We see overseas governments such as Prime Minister Cameron’s in the UK committed to procuring local produce whenever possible and we call on the Australian government to follow their lead and that of Qantas,” said Mr Oberman.

According to the Project Harvest data, the origin of a product is deemed of high importance to consumers across the majority of demographics, and other businesses would do well to follow Qantas’ example.

AUSVEG has also long stressed the importance of clear country of origin labelling and it is excellent to see Qantas promoting its use of local produce so prominently on its meal packaging.

“Qantas is in the business of winning over customers so it makes sense to tap into consumers’ preference for locally sourced produce. No doubt all Australian businesses seeking to grow revenue and market share like Qantas will acknowledge the growing desire for locally sourced produce,” said Mr Oberman.

As we approach Australia Day, it is entirely fitting that the ‘flying Kangaroo’ recognises the importance of supporting Australian growers and we welcome their initiative.

ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT:  Stefan Oberman, Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0475 359 442 Email: stefan.oberman@ausveg.com.au