South Australian Produce Market: A hub for fresh produce, sustainability, innovation and diversity
Empowering healthy lifestyles and economic growth
The South Australian Produce Market Limited (SAPML) is at the heart of the state’s fresh produce supply chain, ensuring that South Australians have access to high-quality fruit and vegetables. More than 265,000 tonnes of fresh produce move through the market each year, supplying greengrocers, supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, and food service providers across the state.
The market is a vital economic and cultural hub, supporting South Australia’s horticulture industry with 4,000 people employed across the 100 businesses that trade at the market. With more than 12,250 weekly market users and over 5,000 trucks and vehicles accessing the site, SAPML plays a critical role in connecting producers with retailers, hospitality businesses and consumers.
Investing in a sustainable future
The South Australian Produce Market is committed to a net zero future, investing in sustainability and waste reduction initiatives. Its on-site microgrid has generated 12,121 MWh of green power over the last five years, contributing to emissions savings of 33,356 tonnes of CO₂ and reducing scope 2 electricity-related emissions by 53%. In the same period, the market has successfully redirected 15,170 tonnes of food and other waste from landfill, strengthening its leadership in responsible environmental management.
Strengthening biosecurity to unlock growth
Biosecurity is fundamental to South Australia’s reputation for clean, premium produce, and SAPML is leading the way with a $50 million investment in a state-of-the-art biosecurity precinct. Supported by the Australian and South Australian Governments, this facility will feature the latest in x-ray technology and post-fumigation rooms, ensuring producers can meet export standards. By providing shared biosecurity infrastructure, SAPML is removing barriers for smaller producers and the new biosecurity facility has the potential to unlock $100 million in exports over the next five years.
Championing diversity and gender equality
Reflecting the diversity of South Australia, the market’s workforce is made up of people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, reinforcing its role as a centre of community and enterprise. SAPML continues to champion gender equality with a gender ratio of 42% female and 58% male employees – including 50% senior female executives within the management structure.
Providing healthy food options for South Australians in need
Beyond its economic and environmental contributions, SAPML plays a vital role in supporting communities across the state. Through its longstanding partnership with Foodbank, the market community donates some two million kilograms of fresh produce each year – valued at over $12 million – helping to feed more than 150,000 South Australians and Territorians each month, one-third of whom are children. SAPML also contributes to bushfire and food relief efforts, providing over $300,000 in food and financial aid over the past five years, alongside a further $200,000 in support for other community charities.
A cornerstone of South Australia’s food and agribusiness landscape
From humble beginnings, the South Australian Produce Market has grown into a critical pillar of the state’s agribusiness, food and wine industries. Supporting businesses, workers, and communities across the supply chain, SAPML underpins South Australia’s food security, environmental sustainability, biosecurity and export growth. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and community partnerships, SAPML continues to strengthen its role in ensuring a resilient and thriving food system for the future.