A co-operative of eight fresh produce growers from South Korea visited New Covent Garden Market on Thursday 8 May, to find out how Britain’s largest wholesale market operates.

The Korea Export-Free Co. Ltd is an agricultural company, acting as an umbrella group for market cooperative leaders from Jeju Island – a beautiful region in the south of Korea, renowned for its produce and agriculture. As producers of radishes, the group wanted to see New Covent Garden Market in operation during the early hours. They were interested in the differences between the Market’s wholesaler and catering businesses and how they work with their many suppliers.

Starting with a tour of the original Buyers’ Walk, the group met Gary Marshall, Managing Director of Bevington Salads (and Chair of the Covent Garden Tenants’ Association). Gary explained how the Market’s unique ecosystem relies on businesses supporting their suppliers, customers and each other, with prices fluctuating based on supply and demand. The group also spoke with Paul Grimshaw, Managing Director of Direct Delivered Produce Ltd (D.D.P), who told them that his business holds the Royal Warrant for HRH King Charles III and proudly supplies the Royal households. The group then visited the new Buyers’ Walk area and finished the tour with a walk and talk around the Flower Market.

“It was a very informative visit for the group,” said Tommy Leighton, Market Press Officer, “I’d like to thank Gary and Paul for their time and the information they passed on to grower/exporters who are genuinely interested in finding a route into the UK market through the wholesale sector. Together, we answered lots of questions about the supply chain, finding the right partner, packaging and many other topics. The delegation was intrigued and excited about how we’re creating a new Market while still continuing to trade and from the feedback we received, visiting such an iconic site was a highlight of their time in London.”