The chief executive of the Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers has leveled accusations against major supermarkets, alleging intentional oversupply tactics leading to significant food wastage. According to Ms. Chambers, farmers are compelled to cultivate excessive quantities of produce, only to be informed at the time of harvest that the demand is insufficient, resulting in approximately 40% of their produce being discarded.
"We have put forward that the retailers are purposely oversupplying the market," stated Ms. Chambers. This claim is supported by data indicating that supermarkets are accepting only about 60% of the produce they initially request from growers. This issue was highlighted in a submission by AUSVEG, the national peak body, to a senate inquiry focusing on supermarket prices.
In defense, a spokesperson from Woolworths argued that their supply forecasts are based on historical customer demand and purchasing patterns, suggesting that the issue of oversupply is complex and extends beyond the scope of their direct engagements with growers. The spokesperson added, "At their request, we share indications of customer demand for the upcoming season with some of our growers to support their planning and planting decisions."
Source: abc.net.au
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