History

In South Australia, up until the mid 1800’s produce grown was sold directly to the fruit and vegetable shop owners.  However by the mid 1860’s, the number of grower and fruit and vegetable shops grew dramatically and the South Australian Government regulated the trading of fruit and vegetables.  In response to this, The East End Market Company and Adelaide Fruit and Produce Exchange were founded and operated in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD just off East Terrace for 30 and 84 years respectively.

However by the mid 1980s, with an increasing population and production costs, Adelaide’s wholesale fruit and vegetable market was proving to be too small and too inefficient. More operating space was required. In 1987 growers, wholesalers and retailers formed a private company, the Adelaide Produce Market Limited and began construction of a new market complex in the northern suburb of Pooraka. The Adelaide Produce Market was the first privately owned and operated fresh produce market in Australia. The Market officially operated in October 1988.

Today the Adelaide Produce Market provides a facility for the sale and exchange between fruit and vegetable wholesalers, growers, retailers, providores, secondary wholesalers, food processors, transporters, exporters and industry organisations. The Adelaide Produce Market offers South Australia the best exposure for selling fresh produce, providing an efficient marketing position, access to a large customer base in one location and the perfect venue for developing business contacts and relationships between all aspects of the industry. The Market currently brings together an estimated 80 local growers, 55 merchants, 300 retailers and over 1000 other individuals each day. Stores are either owned or leased to merchants by the Adelaide Produce Market. To enquire about possible leasing options, please contact the Administration Office.