SOUTH Australia's Woodlane Orchard has been recognised as one of the top 10 finalists in a national award by Business Australia, demonstrating innovation and resilience.
A new micro business, Woodlane Orchard purchases surplus produce and turns it into dehydrated shelf-stable, gluten-free, vegan, preservative-free meals.
Local farmers struggled to move produce interstate meaning more produce was available, so they approached businesses to partner with for wholesale.
They had to quickly learn how to build a website themselves. With a better website, better business cards, a social media presence and a positive attitude they spruiked businesses again.
This resulted in 14 businesses in South Australia partnering with Woodlane Orchard and a rapid expansion of the enterprise.
RELATED READING
The increase in overall revenue is more than 400 per cent with some interest even coming from overseas.
The micro business, at Mypolonga in the Lower Murray, buys surplus or damaged produce including citrus, cherry tomatoes and potatoes, to make into dehydrated, shelf-stable meals.
What started as an opportunity to use edible unsold produce from neighbouring farms has converted 20 tonnes of fresh product into meals sold in 14 outlets across the state this year, with overseas interest emerging too.
The COVID-19 era trends of increased wastage particularly disturbed owner and founder, Kelly Johnson.
"It's quite annoying that although more people are cooking and eating at home they're throwing out more food - possibly because the meal preparation process itself creates leftovers," she said.
Business Australia has selected 10 finalists in the Together in Business Member Recognition Program, recognising businesses across the country that have demonstrated their ability to adapt and thrive amid this year's adverse business conditions.
The top 10 finalists were selected from more than 200 nominations.
Business Australia chief customer experience officer, Richard Spencer, said over the past 12 months, many Australian businesses have been forced to look at new ways of delivering their products and services and many more have had to significantly cut operating costs in order to stay afloat.
"We are seeing businesses shifting how they work and innovating," Mr Spencer.
"This might be upskilling staff to deliver new models of service, investing in technology, R&D and systems or looking at new ways of attracting customers."
"The Top 10 Business Champions were chosen for their ability to show innovation and resilience during what has been, and continues to be, a very challenging business climate."
"They have risen to the challenge of not only surviving but thriving which absolutely deserves recognition."
Australian Bureau of Statistics data show that 38pc of businesses have altered their business models to change the method of delivery of products or services, including a shift to online services.
A further 10pc introduced new products.
Sign up here to Good Fruit and Vegetables weekly newsletter for all the latest horticulture news each Thursday...