Russell Markham reckons he has the best of both worlds…being a retailer that champions local produce in a market that is perhaps the best in Australia at producing premium local food, wine and beverage.
As Foodland SA Chief Executive Russell sees a lot of local, national and international product but it is the South Australia offering that helps keep the retailer at the forefront of consumers’ minds.
“Our stores will stock all the available local brands depending on the space available in the supermarket.
“We are famous for our South Australian range of products which come from many iconic local producers including Vilis, Beerenberg, Spring Gully, B.-d. Farm Paris Creek, Fleurieu Milk, Nippys, Bickfords, Tuckers Natural, Angelakis Brothers, Conroys, Cappos and many, many more.
“In addition, over 50 per cent of the products in the Foodland brand range are sourced from local manufacturers (the remainder are from Australian suppliers, none are from overseas). These great South Australian products are exclusive to Foodland stores and include Foodland branded milk, bread, ice cream, jam and honey, onions, spring water, oats, confectionery, eggs, orange juice and pies.”
Russell said that in nearly all cases he believed the South Australian offering superior or at least equal to what is available from overseas or interstate.
“The quality control on the Foodland branded range is strictly monitored and the products compare well with all others for taste and value.
They perform better in most cases and it is reassuring that the manufacturing base is in our state and is helping to keep local jobs going.”
Being able to access South Australian food, wine and beverage at a retail level was important to the state’s consumers who took pride in what was produced, he said.
Russell said it was important that local products were championed more as they were often more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
