According to the organisers, sustainability – in all its different forms, will be at the centre of the Global Berry Congress in 2020.
The event, which returns to Rotterdam on 30 March-1 April, will have a major focus on the future viability of the soft fruit industry, including production, supply chains, distribution models and markets and is expected to attract around 600 delegates.
Global Berry Congress programme manager Mike Knowles warns, “Despite standing out as one of the most vibrant and prosperous categories in the fresh produce department, the fresh berry sector is by no means immune to the various challenges associated with environmental, social and economic sustainability. While efficiency, productivity and food safety have been central to berry business models for decades, there is arguably still more that can be done to protect the people and communities that supply the fruit, or the natural resources needed to produce it.”
He says that next year’s Congress programme will highlight a number of areas where improvements are being made, as well aspects of the fresh berry supply chain that could benefit from greater investment and attention.
Photo source: Global Berry Congress