History

Up until the mid 1800’s produce grown in South Australia was sold directly to the fruit and vegetable shop owners.  However by the mid 1860’s the number of fruit and vegetable shop owners and the number of growers supplying produce became more and more abundant.  It was at this time that regulated fruit and vegetable trading was introduced into South Australia.

The East End Market Company and Adelaide Fruit and Produce Exchange operated in the heart of the city, just off East Terrace for 30 & 84 years respectively.

Time, expansion and the development of the City as a whole, meant that Adelaide’s wholesale fruit and vegetable market was proving too small.  The expanding population and need for more efficient handling methods demanded additional operating space.

In 1987 growers, wholesalers and retailers formed a private company and began construction of a new market complex, now known as the Adelaide Produce Market. The Adelaide Produce Market was the first privately owned and operated fresh produce market in Australia.  At this time, all other markets were government owned and operated. 

The Market complex was officially opened in October 1988 when trading from Pooraka commenced.