A family-run farming enterprise that has been collaborating with Woolworths since 1974, namely Australian Strawberry Distributors, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of Woolworths Fruit and Veg Trade Partner of the Year. This remarkable achievement showcases the dedication and excellence of this family-owned business.

Celebrating Partnerships and Innovation in the Retail World

Australian Strawberry Distributors: A Legacy of Quality and Collaboration

Australian Strawberry Distributors, with its extensive farms spanning across Victoria and Queensland, has long been at the forefront of the agricultural industry. Their commitment to innovation is evident through the adoption of protective cropping techniques. By constantly trialing new strawberry varieties, they ensure a steady supply of high-quality strawberries throughout the year, meeting the discerning tastes of Woolworths customers. This dedication to quality and reliability has earned them the respect and admiration of both Woolworths and their customers.Moreover, their family-run nature adds a personal touch to their business. The Ripepi family, behind Australian Strawberry Distributors, takes great pride in producing top-notch strawberries and being dependable partners. Their close collaboration with Woolworths allows them to understand the needs of customers and bring exciting new fresh produce varieties to the market.

Hilton Foods: Driving Innovation in the Meat Category

Hilton Foods, the strategic secondary processing partner of Woolworths' red meat business Greenstock, has made significant contributions to the meat industry. With facilities in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Bunbury, they are dedicated to processing high-quality fresh meat for Woolworths customers across the nation.Their vision and partnership have led to remarkable process improvements and innovations. One of their notable achievements is the production of Woolworths' popular new range of burger patties, which are not only delicious but also affordable. Additionally, they have focused on improving the sustainability of packaging by developing award-winning, fully kerbside recyclable meat trays. This initiative has already eliminated over 3,000 tons of virgin plastic from the supply chain, demonstrating their commitment to environmental responsibility.The Woolworths Trade Partner of the Year Awards recognize partners across 12 categories, highlighting the diverse range of excellence within the retail industry. Australian Strawberry Distributors and Hilton Foods stand out as shining examples of what can be achieved through collaboration and innovation.These trade partners play a crucial role in enhancing the customer shopping experience and driving innovation in their respective fields. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to others and showcase the power of strong partnerships in the business world.