fresh state of affairs issue 28

Become a MMCS User for:• Security • Convenience • Control

When you sell your fresh produce:

• Reduce paperwork • Regain control

• Simplify payments • Ensure quality

• Enjoy the convenience • Maintain security

• Improve cash flow • Sell with confidence

LET MMCS WORK FOR YOU!

Melbourne Markets Credit Service542 Footscray Rd (MB 157)West Melbourne VIC 3003Tel: 03 9687 7333 Fax: 03 9687 7611Email: [email protected] www.melbmcs.com.au

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ISSN: 1838-7829

june282015

Dig deep for Market on the Move #forkbyfork

08Relocation: the 10 year rollercoaster ride

04

OF AFFAIRS issue 28 jun 20152

Fresh State CEO:John [email protected] / Advertising:Sally Piper [email protected]:Tony [email protected]

Design:Flying Dog Designswww.fddesigns.com.auPhotography:Sally Piper [email protected] Oswald www.eoimages.com.auJohn Roach [email protected]

Print:King Printwww.kingprint.com.auDistribution:Fresh State of Affairs is produced by Fresh State Ltd and is a free publication.

Published by:

www.freshstate.com.au tel: 03 9689 3233

what’s on:

Jack comes to Town!A very special visitor from Very Special Kids tours the market to raise awareness of fundraising efforts for Market on the Move

Palamara Village FruitsFresh Produce is the star of the show at this top class retail store down on the Mornington Peninsula.

Fresh Connections 2015The FMA Trade Show was a huge success for fresh pro-duce exposure and we explore the reasons why …

24

CONTENTS 02 What’s on

03 President’s message

04 Relocation

08 Market on the move

14 Around the markets

17 Top ten

18 Cafe culture

26 PMA: Eating by example

27 Q&A: Paul Angelucci

ADVERTISING08 Continental Tires

10 Veritas

11 Chep / FSA Commemorative Mag

13 One Stop

16 FSL Gala Ball

20 Sothertons Chartered Accountants

24 FMA

28 MMCS

22

12

issue 28 jun 2015

03

Fresh State Ltd makes this magazine available on the understanding the users exercise their own skill and care with respect to its use. Before relying on, or altering any business practices, users should carefully evaluate the ac-curacy, completeness and relevance of the information for their purpose and should obtain appropriate professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances. This magazine contains views and recommendations that do not necessarily reflect the views of Fresh State Ltd.

Fresh State does not in any circumstances accept respon-sibility for the accuracy or suitability or otherwise of any in-

formation published in Fresh State of Affairs. Fresh State Ltd specifically disclaims all and any liability for loss or damage of any nature whatsoever and however arising, whether due to accuracy, error or omission or any other cause.

In addition, by using the information in this magazine, each user waives and releases Fresh State, its staff and agents from any and all claims relating to the use of this document. In no event shall Fresh State Ltd be liable for any consequential damages resulting from using the information in Fresh State of Affairs.

© Fresh State Ltd 2015

This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior permission from Fresh State Ltd. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to:

The EditorFresh State of Affairs MagazineMarket Box 113, 542 Footscray RoadWest Melbourne VIC 3003

Disclaimer:

what’s on:

Shane SchnitzlerPresident Fresh State Ltd.

With 3 August 2015 rushing towards us for the first day of trading at Epping, most people’s minds are fixed on what they have to do to open for business. However few people or organisations take the opportunity to use this time to position for the next ten or twenty years.I am pleased to announce that Fresh State has taken the opportunity to look at itself and to instigate positive change for the future. This is especially so after the long fight covering the best part of a decade for members’ rights.

The Board is in the process of signing off a new Fresh State logo which will be launched shortly. Incorporated with this is the merging of the Fresh State website and the Credit Service website for a one stop shop approach to making life easier for members and Credit Service users. And yes, it will have a new look and many new features.

And for those who are not aware, the new Fresh State / Credit Service location at Epping is Shop # 1 or Store # 36 (one in the same) at the corner of “Collins Street and Little Collins Street North”! The board has felt strongly that the Credit Service be front and centre to the main trading area and this is being delivered.

We are also providing a free information session in early July for members and obtain information from an accountancy firm (Sothertons) regarding the pros and cons of your current business structure; what structural position best suits the future; and entry and exit of business partners (see page 20 for more details).

Highlighting the move to Epping are the fundraising efforts for the 20th Man Fund and Very Special Kids through

Market on the Move. The nominated charities were chosen because they do so much good work helping kids and youth in need. I ask that you strongly support these fund raising efforts, take part in Market on the Move, and take the time to enjoy the move to our new location.

Finally, as this is the last edition of Fresh State of Affairs from Footscray Road, I wish to thank the many contributors to the magazine since commencing in mid 2010 – it has been a great ride. Edition 29 will be the first from Epping in August 2015.

Farewell Footscray Road!

Highlighting the move to Epping are the fund-raising efforts for the 20th Man Fund and Very Special Kids through Market on the Move.

President’s message


GOVERNMENT FORMALLY ANNOUNCES RELOCATION

EPPING AWARDED

EPPING FIELDS OF GLORY

SITE INSPECTION OF EPPING

FIRST CLASS ACTION

BOUNDARIES MARKED

2005

2006

2006

2007

2007

05

THE ROLLERCOASTER RIDE TO RELOCATION

FEBRUARY: GOVERNMENT REVIEW OF PROJECT BUT BUILDING COMMENCES

NOVEMBER: NEW GOVERNMENT

AUGUST: BUILDING PHASE CONTINUES

SEPTEMBER: BUILDING CONTINUES

JUNE

SEPTEMBER: AND BUILDING CONTINUES

Ten years in the making, its been a rollercoaster of a ride, of ups and downs …

THE TEN YEAR JOURNEY

2011

2010

2011

2011

2012

2012


MAY: AND STILL BUILDING …

LATE MAY: SUPREME COURT OF VICTORIA COURT INJUNCTION PUT IN PLACE

MARCH: SUPREME COURT OF VICTORIA COURT PROCEEDINGS CONCLUDE AND GOVEERNMENT COMMENCES TO COMPLETE FIT OUT WORKS

OCTOBER

2013

2013

2013

2014

2014

But we have survived the journey, ready to continue the next stage of market history at Epping.

07

NOVEMBER: NEW GOVERNMENT

FEBRUARY: STORE HOLDERS START TO FIT OUT THEIR STORES AND OFFICES AFTER SOME FALSE STARTS …

JUNE: LARGE WAREHOUSES HANDED OVER FOR FIT OUT

3 AUGUST 2015: OPEN FOR BUSINESS

JUNE: NOW STARTING TO LOOK LIKE A CENTRAL MARKET

2014

2015

2015

2015

2015

THE ROLLERCOASTER RIDE TO RELOCATIONTHE TEN YEAR JOURNEY


Strong shoulders are able to carry more.Market on the move. Powered by Continental Tires.

Continental is one one of the biggest automotive suppliers worldwide. We owe this postion to our employees and locals partners. Therefore we feel obliged to contribute our strong shoulders for local and charitable organizations.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Market on the Move has developed into a lot more than a fork-lift procession although forklifts are at the heart of the event. “It encapsulates the entire move of the market and what we can do as a community to raise money for charity” says event Chair and well known market identity Joe Amalfi.

“We are definitely moving the fork-lifts in an official procession to the new Epping market and we want everyone involved” continues Joe.

Whether you are a wholesaler, retailer, grower or associated busi-ness – if you have a forklift at the market you are invited to take part and help raise as much money as possible.

There will be a variety of fundrais-ing initiatives rolled out during

the month of July and August so buckle up and get involved. “It is all for the kids,” continues Joe.

BE THE FIRST OFFICIAL FORKLIFT THROUGH THE GATES OF EPPING:

The business that fundraises the most money in the month of July for Market on the Move goes straight to the front of the line!

rolls on

09


How do your donations help our kids?

How to be involved:

(a) Participate in the event by signing your forklifts up for the move and have one less thing to worry about. “Market on the Move will organise all the logistics for you and guaran-tee your forks will arrive at Epping on time ready for you to set up your stores” Joe Amalfi.

(b) Sponsor the event and take advan-tage of the many branding oppor-tunities.

(c) Donate to the cause by making a donation to the event’s Go Fund-raise Page or better still, get your whole business involved and see how much money you can raise as a business in the month of July! The business that raises the most money for Market on the Move will be awarded the first place in the forklift procession.

(d) Recycle your scrap metal (filing cabinets, steel cages, computer hard drive cases etc) in the bins provided at Gate 5 – all money will be donated to Market on the Move.

#forkbyforkmarketonthemove.com.au

Whether you are a whole-saler, retailer, grower or associated business – if you have a forklift at the mar-ket you are invited to take part and help raise as much money as possible.

$500

$650

$800

$1000

$110K

$1500

Will provide counselling sessions for the parents of a child with a life-threatening condition.

Will fund 24-hour nursing care for a child to stay at Very Special Kids Hospice – Victoria’s only children’s hospice.

Puts one young person through the 20th Man Youth Fund Youth Leadership Personal Development Program.

The annual wage for one youth worker to help disadvantaged youth.

Pays for keeping one young person participating in our sporting programs for one year (includes uniform, training, fees and trophy).

Will allow the sibling of a child with a life-threatening condition to participate in the Sibling Support Program.

To sign up to participate in the forklift procession or to start fundraising visit:

“This year we have been able to put 300 disadvantaged young people through school which has many flow-on effects in the community,” says Les Twentyman (pictured centre), founder of the 20th Man Fund.

Very Special Kids cares for children with life-threatening conditions by providing a children’s hospice and professional support services to families.

They help more than 900 families across Victoria with ongoing support from diagnosis all the way through to recovery or bereavement, and beyond. Read more about Jack Evan’s recent trip to the market on page 12.

The 20th Man Youth Fund provides cru-cial support services for young people and their families in Melbourne’s West so it is a fitting partner with Market on the Move.

Their programs and services cover educational support, sport and recreation, counseling, personal development, life-experiences and employment pathways.

We are moving the forks for the kids

Fresh State Office located in the heart of the market at Shop 1, 35 Produce Drive, Epping

New trading commences at Epping Market

Fresh State Office at 9.30am. RSVP: [email protected] or 9689 3233

Sotherlands Accountants Information Session

For more information: (booking tickets) www.freshstate.com.au

Fresh State Gala Ball: A night to remember4

SEPTEMBER

For more information: (Registration, sponsorship, donations) www.marketonthemovecom.au

Market on the Move: fork by fork1

AUGUST

Stay tuned for a new look ready for a new destination! www.freshstate.com.au

Fresh State launches new logo and website1

JULY

Calendar of events

3AUGUST

8JULY

Open a CHEP account by 24 July 2015 for your chance to win an iPad!

We’ll be at the Epping Information Centre two days a week until the move. Whenever you see the CHEP

banners flying, stop in to find out how you could benefit by setting up an equipment pooling account with CHEP.

MAKING POOLING SIMPLE.

MAKE A FRESH START WITH CHEP AND WIN!

13 CHEP (13 2437) Melbourne.Market

@chep.com



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11

SPECIAL EDITION

ADVERTISING RATES:

Full page: $3500 + GST

1/2 page: $2000 + GST

1/4 page: $1200 + GST Fresh State of Affairs invites you to be a part of its Special Edition Commemorative Magazine which will celebrate and recognize the last 46 years that the Melbourne Wholesale Market has been located at Footscray Road.

• Including history of the market, iconic businesses throughout the years, plus an array of general information and photos at Footscray Road.

• Collector’s item in years to come and a fitting memento for the market community.

• Opportunity to stamp your business into the history books by advertising in this collector’s edition.

To book an advertisement in this Special Edition or for any suggestions or historical information, please contact Sally Piper at Fresh State on 03 9689 3233 by Wednesday 8 July or send an email to Sally at [email protected]

Commemorative Issue

46 years at Footscray Road

> A local recruitment partner committed to delivering a personalised and tailored service

> Dedicated and specialist recruitment teams for both temporary/contract and permanent positions

> Advice, guidance and support across broader HR practices

Temporary and Permanent Recruitment

Senior Accounting & Finance

Accounting Support

Business Support

Technical & Operations

Human Resources

Sales & Marking

HR Consulting

Ready for the simple truth?

VERITAS RECRUITMENT Suite 5, Level 1, The Suites, 30 English Street, Essendon Fields, VIC 3041www.veritasrecruitment.com.au | E: [email protected] | P: 03 9948 9499 | F: 03 9948 9488

Open a CHEP account by 24 July 2015 for your chance to win an iPad!

We’ll be at the Epping Information Centre two days a week until the move. Whenever you see the CHEP

banners flying, stop in to find out how you could benefit by setting up an equipment pooling account with CHEP.

MAKING POOLING SIMPLE.



@chep.com



@chep.com



@chep.com

CHEP_advert_June2015.indd 1 15/06/2015 10:45 am

12 OF AFFAIRS issue 28 jun 2015

Jack, who is a regular visitor to Very Special Kids Hospice, loves freeways, traffic lights, trucks, machines and any-thing in between, so it was a perfect fit for him to come down to the hustle and bustle of the market to see the forklifts in action – pos-sibly for one of the last times in history.

“This was a unique op-portunity for Jack” says Fresh State President Shane Schnitzler. “The move is only a month away and forklifts won’t be as interac-tive with the market floor at Epping like they are here”.

Forklifts are by nature an amazing beast. A standard forklift has the ability to lift six tonnes, can travel up to 20 kmh and manoeuvre into tight spaces. The wholesalers, growers and retailers at the Melbourne Wholesale Fruit and Vegetable Market know how crucial

they are to their businesses which is why there are over 880 forklifts reg-istered on site. “The first forklift was bought into the market in the early

1970’s” continues Shane. “Prior to this all the produce handling was done by hand and hand trolley.”

Our market forklifts are the inspiration behind the Market on the Move event where funds raised will be donated to Very Special Kids and the 20th Man Fund – who provide crucial support services for young people and their families in Melbourne’s West.

Long standing Melbourne Wholesaler Young Sang generously provided Jack with a tour of their state of the art packing facility warehouse where he

got to see their specialty to-mato lines being pre packed ready for sale. “We loved seeing Jack so excited about being at the market” said Daniel Scavo. “This is what it is all about – giving back to our community and helping in any way we can.” Young Sang were so inspired by the visit, they have already offered to give Jack a tour

of the new Epping market and to help raise funds through Market on the Move initiatives.”

It’s a fork affairThe market wholesalers are a generous bunch and 16 year old Jack Evans got to witness this first hand when he was invited on a tour of the market.

#forkbyfork | marketonthemove.com.au

Proudly supporting

This was a unique opportunity for Jack … The move is only a month away and forklifts won’t be as interactive with the market floor at Epping like they are here.

An all of market event – Daniel from Young Sang with special guest Jack, Young Sang warehouse staff, wholesalers, Fresh State, CHEP and the MMA all came along to meet Jack.

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Complete with tomatoes, caps, lime, red onion and even coriander. All you need to create the perfect Mexican Salsa Ole!

Ingredients

2 Roma tomatoes2 Petite Capsicum (exclusive to Woolworths)1 Onion1 Lime1 dried coriander sachet

Method

• Finely dice the vegetables

• Combine ingredients in bowl, squeeze lime juice over and season with salt and pepper

• Mix together for the flavours to develop

• Serve the salsa with barbequed meats, corn chips or crusty bread

Fresh coriander is an optional addition as a garnish.

Fresh State President Shane Schnitzler and Young Sang’s Steve Northrop welcome Jack to the market floor.

Very Special Kids Hospice Chef Josie whips up Young Sang’s Salsa for the children. You can’t get any fresher or tastier than that!

YOUNG SANG’S SALSA KIT


around the markets:2

01 Fresh State’s Shane Schnitzler

02 Ross from Ferrinda Fresh

03 Vince, Dom and Mark Brancatisano from Prestige Produce

04 Frank Musico’s FSA Magazine debut

05 Muhummad and Frank from VB Sculli

06 Market icon Peter Silk sheds a tear

07 Dave from Granieri’s is looking forward to being closer to home

08 Market regulars Cathy with John Maccroa

09 Chin Bros Nick and Alby pay homage to their father Richard Chin who was the co founder of Chin Bros – gone but never forgotten

10 Vince Natoli from AMV Fresh

11 The team at Camptara – Tony, Alex and Spiros

12 Dykes Bros are ready and waiting

13 VFS Produce’s Paul Angelucci with Victor from Alfatop

14 Chris Martikas from Louis Melbourne

1

3

9

10

11 12

15

around the markets:5

4

6

7

8

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SAVE THE

DATE

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PRE BOOK YOUR TABLE: Visit www.freshstate.com.au or contact the Fresh State office on 03 9689 3233

2015

FRIDAY 4 SEPTEMBER 2015FRESH STATE AWARDS ON THE NIGHT INCLUDE:> Wholesale Company of the Year> Wholesale Personality of the Year> Young Marketeer of the Year> This is Your Life Presentation> NEW Melbourne Markets Credit Service Awards

Platinum Sponsors:

17

ways to get ready for the move to Epping

TO

P

1. PARTICIPATE IN IT. Sign up your forklifts to Market on the Move. Save yourself the headache of worrying about logistics and the transport of your forks and let the team at Market on the Move handle this for you. It is too easy to be involved – register today by contacting the Fresh State team on 9689 3233 or marketonthemove.com.au.

2. SHRED IT. Do you have a stack of paper that needs to go? Make a date with the giant paper shredder which will be in the centre of the the market floor on every Tuesday in July.

3. RECYCLE IT. Don’t leave valuable resources in your store or office. Recycle your metal and aluminum office and store equipment in the bins provided - all money from recycling will be going directly to Market on the Move. Bins located at Gate 5 for recyclables only.

4. RAISE IT. Start your own Market on the Move fundraising page via marketonthemove.com.au and see how much your business can raise towards this awesome cause.

5. TOUR IT. Don’t forget to make time to visit Epping before Market on the Move so that you are prepared for your new store and surroundings.

6. STAMP IT. Get your telephone and address details sorted (make sure it is the correct address: {store number} 35 Produce Drive, Epping, 3076) and prepare your administration collateral.

7. ACCESS IT. Organise your business access cards as soon as possible – one less thing to think about!

8. MAP OR APP IT. Get the new market map or app and let your customers know where you live out at Epping in advance to avoid confusion …

9. PARK IT. Confirm your parking arrangements with your staff and your regular customers so you have an idea about who is who in the zoo.

10. ENJOY IT! This is (or should be) a once in a lifetime event for most of you. New facilities and new beginnings. Take a deep breath and enjoy the process.


John started working at Randos in 1980 and along with his son Jim runs the popular cafe. Jim remembers how different things were then. “Most customers used to have a coffee or breakfast boy to place orders because there were no mobile phones” he says. “Business was traditionally done in the cafe in the early mornings and it would be completely full of customers - then as soon as the siren sounded at 3.30 -4.00 am, everyone would just get up and go”.

A big change over the years has been in deliveries. “Now there is an expectation for us to deliver food and this has become a major service. We pride ourselves on quick service because everyone’s working and they are busy.” Jim says they know their customers so well that John starts cooking their order before they even walk in the door!

Most popular food served: Grilled chicken and cold sandwiches. In the last five years they have seen an increase in the popularity of avocado in sandwiches and a lot more salad.

George and Helen Berkis opened Berkis cafe 30 years ago and in keeping with market tradition, their sons Steve and Nomdas have continued their legacy and take a lot of pride in their work. With the addition of French chef Philippe, Berkis cafe has been a quiet achiever.

They sell every type of food imaginable even down to homemade pizza and everything is made from scratch even the pizza dough! Yes they make gluten free food. Yes they can whip up an egg white omelet (in fact this is a popular request) and yes they can cater for functions and parties.

Steve says the trend over the years has definitely been towards healthier eating with more sit down meals. They attract a health conscious market goer and are known for their specialty dishes which are often pre-booked.

Most popular food served: Pasta very popular (chicken and mushroom tortellini a favourite) and roast of the day. Also soups fly out the door in Winter.

Cafe #1: Randos Snack Cafe #2: Berkis cafeJim serves up their popular steak dish to a lucky customer. Philippe, Nomdas and Steve at Berkis cafe.

Move to Epping: Randos Snack will be situated at the southern end of ‘Little Collins Street’ at the new market. Move to Epping: Situated towards the

northern end of ‘Collins Street’ at the new market, the new Berkis Cafe will continue serving the cuisine that their customers love with a lot more surprises to come!

A new facelift for market cafe culture

19

Terry, John, Mel and Con are such familiar faces in the market. Their clean and colourful cafe has been a draw card over many years. Terry bought the business 15 years ago after being introduced to the market lifestyle by a friend and he hasn’t looked back.

These days, he has handed over the running of the business to his family John, Mel and Con but that doesn’t stop him from being a regular face. “Dad just comes in now to have a coffee and talk to friends” says daughter Mel. “He also answers our questions and helps us out in the shop”. Terry is proud of the cuisine which is served, especially the different dishes home cooked everyday such as moussaka and pastitsio influenced by his Greek heritage.

Most popular food served: “Steaks, lamb and chicken souvlaki, egg and bacon and coffee – always coffee,” says Mel.

Not to be forgotten, the Flower Market cafe is frequented often by everyone in the market who want a change of scenery among the fresh flowers. Paul and Norm are excited about the move especially having brand new premises and equipment.

Most popular food served: Their traditional egg and bacon sandwich plus the unique ‘Albanian burger.’

“Most of our flower market customers are Albanian so we have created something especially for them,” says Paul. The Albanian is a steak roll with mushroom, onions, capsicum, chilli and egg.

All of our cafes in the market are icons and part of the market community. They have traditionally been a place to not only socialise at the end (or during) a long day at work, but many business deals have been sealed across the decades over an egg and bacon sandwich and a shot of vodka (all cafes at Footscray Road have a liquor licence).

In our last edition of the Fresh State of Affairs magazine at Footscray Road, we catch up with what some may say is the epicenter of the market – the place that makes the market tick – the market cafes.

Flower Market cafeCafe #3: Orino’sA terminator of a team. Paul replaced his brother Moose in the Cafe in January 2015, and together

with Norm, is looking forward to a new location and new menu additions.

Move to Epping: The shop will be more modern and retro with the same friendly faces and entertainment. Look out for Orino’s towards the southern end of ‘Collins Street’ at the new market.

Move to Epping: The Flower Market Cafe will be introducing a lot more fresh and healthier meals at the new market.

We go beyond standard compliance and deal with structural change to provide proactive accounting solutions which deliver substantial value.

The move to Epping is bringing immense change to business throughout the market, including new leases with the Melbourne Market Authority, extensive fit outs and a series of mergers and business sales. Sothertons Chartered Accountants (Melbourne) have put considerable thought into the potential gains available to those businesses who properly arrange their affairs. With decision making surrounding the move most effective now, we encourage all stakeholders to evaluate their own circumstances and ensure they obtain suitable advice to ensure matters are handled appropriately.

This is the first in a series of articles across coming months which will address a wide range of issues including but not limited to: business structuring,

taxation, financial reporting and performance measurement, business valuations, Superstream and superannuation compliance.

Sothertons have been helping Melbourne business grow for over 35 years. As a full service accounting firm specialising in family business, we go beyond

standard compliance and deal with structural change to provide proactive accounting solutions which deliver substantial value. Where you enjoy strong relationships with your existing advisors we are capable of working with them on a project basis to

ensure your structures are appropriate. Should you wish to discuss any of the matters raised in this article please contact Daniel Dubois or John Christopoulos of Sothertons. We look forward to providing assistance in making the move to a new community successful for all stakeholders.

Are you aware of the structural and tax opportunities available with the upcoming market relocation?

Free Information Session: On: Wednesday 8 July 2015 at 9.30 am

At: Fresh State Boardroom (including morning tea)

Sothertons will be holding a free information session at Fresh State about structural and tax implications.

This is an opportunity to ask questions and seek advice on your own individual circumstances which we recommend you take advantage of. Please RSVP your attendance to:

[email protected] or on 03 9689 3233 Sothertons Chartered Accountants

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 03 9820 6400 | Fax: 03 9820 6499 | www.sothertonsmelbourne.com.au

Is your business structurally ready for the move to Epping? By Daniel Dubois

Paul* commenced operating at the Melbourne Wholesale Seafood Market 30 years ago and has built a strong business trading as Melbourne’s Freshest Fish. In 2011, when the market relocated, the business had a value of approximately $5m, including a lease worth approximately $500,000.

At this time the business operated through a Family Trust. Paul was paid a wage and superannuation was contributed to an industry fund on his behalf. Distributions of profit were divided among family members.

Paul’s advisors undertook a full review of his structure with a view to implementing the most effective way to involve his son in the business and set up retirement for Paul. They recommended;

- Establishing a new company structure with Paul and his son sharing in ownership

- Sale of the existing business from the trust to the company

- Transfer of the new business premises lease to the Super Fund and

- Subleasing to the operating company

Restructures can sometimes trigger a significant tax liability. However Paul’s advisors were able to dramatically reduce the cost incurred by expert application of tax concessions such as:

- Small business CGT relief

- Capital gains tax rollovers for corporate re-organisations

- Stamp duty exemptions on transfers of property from discretionary trusts and to superannuation funds

- Sales of going-concerns for GST purposes

- Maximising concessional and non-concessional contributions, including the ‘bring-forward’ provision.

- Tax-free superannuation pensions

Paul and his son were pleased because their new structure:

- Utilised the lower corporate (30%) and superannuation (15% in accumulation phase, 0% in pension) tax rates

- Benefited from the high level of risk protection afforded by a company

- Quarantined the lease from trading and business risks

- Provided Paul with a valuable, income-producing asset that provided for him in retirement

- Was flexible enough to accommodate more owners in the future, if this was desired.

* Industries and names have been changed.

Transition to greater financial flexibility

1. Setting up business operating entities (company/trust/partnership etc) in the most appropriate structures for future events including maximising profitability and tax efficiency:

> Asset protection – are business and stakeholder assets (property, leases, plant & equipment etc) owned in separate legal entities from those exposed to trading and business risk?

> Buying/selling/merging businesses including tax rollovers and valuations of businesses

> Have new leases been written in appropriate entities?

> Succession and retirement planning including

– Shareholder agreements; and

– Utilisation of superannuation structures in support of commercial activities

3. Utilisation of Self Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF) structures:

> Putting in place appropriate SMSF structures to support commercial interests

> Have you considered a strategy of placing the new lease (a tradeable and valuable asset) in your Self Managed Superannuation Fund which, if appropriately structured, may serve to retire debt within the business or non-deductible personal debt?

Current opportunities to consider:

2. Fit-outs and purchase of new equipment:

> Tax structuring into optimal entities

> New accelerated depreciation regime from 12 May 2015 enabling full write off of assets under appropriate circumstances

> Assistance with banking and other funding relationships to acquire assets

OF AFFAIRS22

The modern streamlined shop is bursting to the seams with colourful fresh fruit and veg displayed in a way that just makes you want to grab something off the shelf and bite into it straight away.

Unlike many other greengrocer/fruit & veg shops, Palamara doesn’t compete with too many generic grocery lines, rather choosing to sell unique local products that compliment the produce. An example of this is their juice bar strategically set up at the entrance of the store which is the only one of its kind in the area.

Steve Palamara is the brainchild behind the look and feel of the aptly named Palamara Village Fruits. “We are known in the markets as Palamara’s however the original store name is Mt Eliza Village Fruits. After our store renovation a few years ago, I wanted to go back to our family roots by placing my family name in front,” says Steve. The Palamara Village Fruits ‘A’ Team (left to right): Lindor Sulemani,

Sanje Hopwood, Steve Palamara, David ‘Ronnie’ Evans and Joe Sinopoli (store manager).

Where fresh produce is the star of the show

Palamara Village Fruits has been a popular destination for fresh quality produce and friendly customer service for the last 23 years.

Palamara doesn’t compete with too many generic grocery lines, rather choosing to sell unique local products that compliment the produce.

Steve’s father, Albert started out in the industry as an Italian migrant worker sponsored by his sister Sarina and her husband in their Glenhuntly fruit shop. It didn’t take long for Albert to realise he had the know how to setup his own shop and together with his brother Joe, they set up on Centre Road in East Bentleigh.

Albert recalls how very different trading was in those days – there was personalised service where the fruiterer would pick out everything for the customer and they only stocked seasonal produce from Victoria with the exception of bananas and few tropical fruits.

Albert and his wife Maria had three children Steve, Richard and Marisa, and after 17 years operating the East Bentleigh business, Albert decided he wanted a new challenge. So he decided to sell up and move the family to a little beachside town called Mt Eliza.

They opened Albert’s Fruit Supply in Seaford next door to Leo’s Tuckerbag (now Ritchies IGA). It didn’t take long for the business to take off and Albert employed a couple of fulltime staff along with his sons Steve and Richard who helped after school and on weekends. Steve especially took a shine to the family business and it was not long before he knew he would follow in his father’s footsteps.

issue 28 jun 2015

At the age of 18, Steve noticed an old rundown fruit shop in Mt Eliza for sale. He convinced Albert and Maria to go and have a look, and Albert purchased it and re-opened a new look Mt Eliza Village Fruits.

This shop was small and bursting out onto the street with displays of produce, flowers, plants and buckets of oranges and, as the business became busier and busier, the Palamara family got more involved.

Albert’s second son Richard joined the business in a full time capacity after completing his accountancy degree and took charge of the daily shop duties. Marisa commenced fulltime as secretary and book keeper and Steve was ready for his next challenge. So it was decided that he would learn the ropes from Albert and do all the fresh produce purchasing at the Melbourne Wholesale Market. It was at this time that Albert and Maria were able to

take a step back and enjoy some well earned holidays and time off.

Today, the business has continued to evolve, and Steve is able to delegate the buying duties to his team and heads into the market two to three days a week. This frees him up to concentrate on other parts of the business. They have built up strong relationships with suppliers in the market and he continues to train his team on selecting quality just like his father trained him. But Albert is still an influential and hands on mentor. Working in the shop part time, Albert is quick to provide his opinion if he feels the produce is not up to his standard. “Dad is a traditional fruiterer and still thrives on prepping the vegies,” says Steve. “He soon lets me know if produce is not up to his standards.”

The next stage of growth came with the introduction of Palamara Produce as the wholesale and providoring arm

of the business supplying local cafes, restaurants, schools, nursing homes, supermarkets and other fruit shops. With the addition of another fruit shop – V & R Fruits in Geelong West, this family retail business is a fresh produce success story.

Steve is now managing the business along with his brother in law Joe Sinopoli which employs 30 full time and casual staff. “You can’t beat great staff who have the care, love and attention and pass that onto the customer. That is how we built our business – on customer service”. Steve says they hire staff that are experienced and know the industry well. “It makes a big difference,” he continues. “Excellent customer service is one of our point of differences together with top quality, and is our way to beat the chains.”

You can’t beat great staff who have the care, love and attention and pass that onto the customer. That is how we built our business – on customer service.

Palamara Village Fruit loves the Melbourne Market Credit Service as it saves them a lot of paperwork. “You just have one direct deposit for about 50 different suppliers. It would be great if every supplier in the market was in the credit service.”


Fresh Connections 2015 was once again hailed a success with Melbourne Market wholesalers taking up the opportunity to not only network with the who’s who of the fresh produce industry, but also display their quality fruit and vegetables at the popular FMA Trade Show.

“This year the format was a little different with the trade show open for one day, all day” said Fresh State President and FMA Chairman Shane Schnitzler. “We found this worked really well with a lot of foot traffic throughout the day, especially in the fresh produce area”.

The fresh produce area was certainly a gathering place which was great for exhibitors including Fresh State wholesalers, Toyota Material Handling, FMA representatives and the Central Markets Association of Australia.

FMA Trade Show a big hit at Fresh Connections 2015

FRESH MARKETS AUSTRALIA 2015 MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARD

Mark Kelly was awarded the FMA Meritorious Service Award due to his strong and loyal commitment to the marketing and wholesaling sector in our central markets.

Mark, a second generation wholesaler in the family business, Lockhart Endeavour, has gone on to develop his business into one of the most successful and well respected businesses in the Sydney Market. He has served over twenty continuous years on the NSW Chamber Committee, including ten years on the Chamber Executive.

In true wholesaler style, Mark is described as having great compassion for the less fortunate – every time there is a need or a worthy cause he can be relied upon to lend a hand, not for self-recognition, but because he just wants to help.

Congratulations Mark!

The Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetables Industries Limited has a new business name, which will support the organisation’s long standing reputation in the industry.

Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) will become the new face and name of The Australian Chamber.

This rebranding is a big step and not something the Australian Chamber Board has taken lightly.

FMA’s mission, aims and values remain – they will continue to represent the six fresh produce Market Chambers and their Members nationally.

This is an exciting time for FMA as they modernise their look and in particular highlight the role of the fresh produce marketing sector in Australia.

For more information, visit freshmarkets.com.au

THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ADOPTS A NEW BUSINESS NAME





























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We will be involved in these events a lot more because we want to advertise AMV Fresh and look at different ways of marketing instead of just concentrating on the market floor.Vince Natoli, AMV Fresh pictured networking with a Foodworks buyer.

Very good experience with great publicity. As a new partnership, the exposure is beneficial especially as we are introducing new lines.Phil and Geraldine Stilo, Mildura Fresh.

What I like about the FMA Trade Show is that there are smaller numbers of high quality contacts. Not many other trade shows are like this. James Rattray, Flowerdale Farms pictured with Steve Matthews from Bidvest QLD.

All fresh produce that was displayed at the FMA Trade Show was generously donated to Foodbank equating to 12 bins full of fruit and vegetables (approximately 4 tonne). This assisted Foodbank agencies to provide nutrients for around 8,000 meals to people in need.

From a networking perspective, the face to face outside of the market atmosphere is something different. Plus, we are able to make everyone aware of all aspects of our business like our prepack ranges and specialty lines. Daniel Scavo, Young Sang.

Feedback from the floor


These initiatives are certainly steps in the right direction! But from my experience, one key piece has been missing: industry leadership in this movement through positive modelling. Too often we meet to discuss increasing consumption while snacking on Danishes; or listening to presentations about the great taste and health benefits of fresh produce, only to break out on ham and cheese croissants!

Not exactly consistent with our messaging, right?

As a result, a team of PMA Foundation Emerging Leaders Program Alumni have developed and are implementing an initiative called ‘Eating by Example’ – in hopes to address this very issue. It is free and all about spreading the healthy eating message.

How to be involved:

1. Simply go to pma.com/eatingbyexample and fill out the registration. It will take no more than two minutes – promise!

2. Be conscious to offer more fresh produce as part of your organisation’s meetings, events and celebrations. Don’t freak out - we’re not asking you to remove those pastries – we’re simply asking you to also provide healthy, delicious fresh produce choices. You may even be surprised: at Valley Produce for example, we’ve noticed that our colleagues are going for the fruit first. So much so, that we are buying less and less processed items, and replacing them with even more fruit.

3. Spread the word – all the promotion of the Eating by Example campaign is by word of mouth and through the hashtag #EatingByExample on social media.

At the time of writing, Eating by Example is delighted to have the following Melbourne Market participants on board: Fresh State (the first Australian entity to join!), Emilio’s Finest, Pinnacle Fresh, Louis Melbourne, Perfection Fresh Australia and Young Sang & Co. In total, there are over 130 organisations participating from six countries.

Eating by Example is a small gesture produce industry organisations can make that will have big industry impact. So what are you waiting for? Jump online, sign up, and share the joy of fresh produce at work!

It’s about produce industry leadership

Eating by Example is a small gesture produce industry organisations can make that will have big industry impact.

#So many of us at the leading edge of produce are searching for ways to further improve our products’ perception – all with the hope of increasing consumption. Great initiatives and campaigns are everywhere, trying to inspire the consumer to eat more fresh produce.

Melbourne Market expat

Lukasz Gorajek is currently working

as the Strategic Operations Project

Manager for Valley Produce in California. Lukasz has kept his finger on the fresh produce pulse and provides us with the latest news coming out from the USA.

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Paul AngelucciPaul is passionate about the fresh produce industry and how growers, wholesalers and retailers can all work together to make it even better and more sustainable.

Works:

Sourcing and selling fresh produce at VFS Produce. Works as a Sales and Supply Account Manager.

Suburb where I live:

Coburg.

Most of my day is spent:

Running around after kids (both on and off the market floor).

The football team I barrack for is:

Collingwood.

My favourite Melbourne Market moment is:

Having 100 pallets over three stands when we were in the middle of the market.

The quality I respect most in an employee is:

Honesty and work ethic.

As I have grown older I have learnt:

Respect.

The qualities I most enjoy about Melbourne Market are:

Relationships with colleagues and the market community – we are one big happy family.

The pets I have are:

Two dogs – Bianca and Molly.

In my spare time I enjoy:

Looking after my kids (Paul has five children aged 10, 8, 5 and twins aged 3).

My first job was:

Corporate Development for Spotless.

My fondest memory is:

When we found out we were having twins. I cried all the way to my mother in law’s house thinking, ‘what am I going to do with five kids?’ Now I couldn’t live without them.

The aspect of my job I Iike the most is:

Dealing with growers, going to farms and seeing retailers in store. It is important that we look after both ends of our business.

The thing I dislike the most is:

That we don’t have innovation in the way in which we sell our product. I think we should have a stronger retailer base.

I am passionate about:

My family – I live and breathe for them.

The place in the world I would most like to go is:

Italy – to travel the entire country.

The thing a lot of people don’t know about me is:

I have a degree in Public Relations.

My favourite fruit or vegetable is:

Stonefruit and garlic.

Paul is an unassuming kind of guy – always smiling, friendly and willing to help out when he can. But uncover some layers and we were surprised to learn that there is much more to Paul Angelucci than meets the eye.

Paul started working in the market twelve years ago after ‘catching the bug’ while moonlighting in a fresh produce retail shop. His first job was working in an office at Spotless utilising his degree in public relations, but the lure of fresh produce was too great.

It was around this time that Paul met Paula and a perfect match was sealed. Coincidently Paula is the niece of Tony Siciliano from VFS Produce which led Paul to the markets and he has been here ever since!

Paul and Paula as their name suggests, are a great team with an entrepreneurial flair and a knack for having babies! They have five children all under ten years of age, own a Wendy’s icecream franchise and have recently started renovating an investment property.

And it’s a lucky thing they own an icecream shop because “Kids eat icecream any time of the year” says Paul. “Even when it is freezing cold”. The favourite icecream flavour of the Angelucci kids is cookies and cream hands down so Paul makes sure there is always plenty of stock available in the freezer.

In any spare time Paul has, he loves to cook. “It is relaxing and great to tap into my fresh produce connections”. He enjoys cooking pasta sauces which is handy with all those hungry kids around.

Paul is passionate about the fresh produce industry and how growers, wholesalers and retailers can all work together to make it even better and more sustainable. What about the future of the fresh produce industry? Paul feels that if the groundwork is set up well for the move to Epping, with more support provided to retailers – then the future will be looking good.

Q&

A:

It’s about produce industry leadership

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• Reduce paperwork • Regain control

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fresh state of affairs issue 28

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