SA CONSUMERS are being asked to buy local as part of a new Market Fresh SA campaign.
The "Pick A Local, Pick SA" initiative aims to promote fresh produce, South Australian family-owned retailers and the local supply chain.
The campaign, launched at the Royal Adelaide Show, is partnered with a competition where customers have a chance to win $1 million when they shop at a participating retailer.
The campaign’s aim is to promote the benefits of consuming fresh produce through the independent retail sector, not only for health and well-being but also for social and economic benefits.
“As far as we are aware, this is the first competition of its kind in SA and the Royal Adelaide Show is the perfect event to launch it,” campaign spokesperson Julian Carbone said.
“The Pick a Local, Pick SA campaign will be all about promoting the benefits of consuming more fresh produce through the independent retail sector. But this won’t be limited to just health and well-being, but the social and economic benefits as well.”
South Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries’ George Giameos said his organisation was more than willing to contribute towards the $400,000 campaign given the vital role the sector plays in the local industry.
“The simple fact is the independent retailers, such as greengrocers, Foodland and IGA, make up the lifeblood of our local economy,” Mr Giameos said.
“They buy from local growers and suppliers, employ local staff and the profits remain right here in SA. By consuming more fresh produce, the ripple effects go much further than just better health.”
Campaign ambassador and former MasterChef contestant Callum Hann is passionate about local fresh produce and believes this campaign will help promote what SA has to offer.
“Sometimes people forget that SA is a goldmine for fresh produce and that there are so many dedicated growers and suppliers,” Mr Hann said.
“This Pick A Local, Pick SA campaign will remind people to select local; local produce, local business – local employment – while also giving them the chance to win $1m. That’s an excellent combination if you ask me,” he said.
The competition runs from September 4, 2015 to January 31, 2016 and to enter, customers have to buy any fresh produce at a retailer displaying the Pick A Local, Pick SA branding, keep the receipt as proof of purchase, and enter online via the campaign Facebook page.