Abstract:
This report, sponsored by the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), describes
the supply chain for fresh fruits and vegetables consumed as part of
school meals. FPC had previously identified schools serving children in
the 4-11 years age group as being the segment of specific interest. The
report also presents an insight into the decision making processes and
purchasing arrangements at the different points in the supply chain. The
study involved identifying the factors that will determine the level of
demand for fresh produce within the school meals sector.
In addition, FPC wanted to assess the likely impact of the government's
move towards transferring responsibility for the management of school
budgets from Local Education Authorities (LEAs) to the schools
themselves on demand for fresh produce in schools. Within the
education sector, this initiative is referred to as Fair Funding.
The methods employed in this research were eclectic in nature. In order
to describe decision making within the supply chain a series of personal
and telephone interviews were conducted within the context of a
multiple case study design. The interview data were analysed using
content analysis. In addition, several databases were constructed that
will allow FPC to conduct targeted marketing programmes. The
databases are: (1) UK schools serving 4-11 year old children, (2) LEA
caterers, (3) Contract caterers.
The principal conclusions reached are that demand for fresh produce,
within the schools meals sector, is likely to grow noticeably over the next
5 years. This growth will be driven by the government's decision to invest
in 'free fruits in schools' and initiatives taken to change children's
behaviour with respect to the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Moreover there is a concerted effort on the part of government, health
professionals, the food industry and pressure groups towards improving
the diet of the nation and this too will impact on fresh produce demand
in the school meals sector.