Some of the most important people in our health are not doctors or personal trainers. They are the growers who pick our fruit and vegetables, and the greengrocers who make it easy to fill a basket with fresh produce every week.
Each year, the Sydney Markets Fresh Awards celebrate the best of them. In 2024, the winners were revealed at a gala night at Sydney’s ICC, hosted by MC Chris Bath. The judging panel included pastry chef Anna Polyviou, journalist Edwina Bartholomew, food writer Lyndey Milan OAM, food blogger Manel Ahmad and Women Love Network founder Robyn Foyster.
The growers and wholesalers
Out of 89 finalists, 22 winners were named. Lemdell took out Wholesaler of the Year and D Fresh Produce was named Produce Grower of the Year. East Coast Wildflowers won Flower Grower of the Year, and Parisi was named Providore of the Year.
The greengrocers
Fruitezy Marketplace in Maroubra was crowned Greengrocer of the Year. Fita Fruita in Turramurra won Best Small Business, Minchinbury Fruit Market won Best Medium Business, and larger favourites Parisi’s Food Hall in Rose Bay and Martelli’s Fruit Market in Cherrybrook were also recognised.
The florists
Pearsons Florist in Bondi Junction won for Retail Presentation, while Bella Floral Boutique in Morisset was recognised for Service Excellence.
People’s choice
At Paddy’s Markets, shoppers voted for their favourites, including Sydney Uggs, Mustafa Allazze Fruit & Vegetables and Yep Lum & Co.
What makes a great greengrocer?
- Fresh, seasonal stock that turns over quickly.
- Staff who know their produce and can tell you what is best this week.
- Local growers on the shelves, with information about where food comes from.
- Good value, including seconds or imperfect produce for cooking.
- A friendly welcome. Shopping local builds community too.
As Sydney Markets CEO Brad Latham put it, these businesses are “the backbone of our communities”. The full list of winners and the latest finalists are at freshawards.com.au.
Make the most of your next shop with our Nutrition Guide and Healthy Dinner Recipes.
