Kindling is a founder member of the innovative Manchester Veg People co-operative, who are seeing sales surge this spring as the word spreads and ever-more chefs and caters seek out their fresh and truly local organic produce. They are currently recruiting for two new worker members.
David tell us about the encouraging growth MVP's experiencing, what it’s like working as part of the co-op, and what new recruits can expect from an unusually absorbing job....
Manchester Veg People is an absolutely brilliant place to work. The co-op is growing at a tremendous pace as more and more people come to appreciate the gorgeous local, organic produce we help farmers to supply to our clients. The pace is really demanding. There is quite the blend of work: being at the market, out on the road picking up the produce, putting orders together, making deliveries, and working with the quality control and admin systems against the tight deadlines that go with ‘field-to-fork’ fresh food. But it really is a pleasure. I get to work with local farmers who work so hard to grow exceptional organic produce and the chefs that appreciate the quality.
On top of that, and I think really uniquely, the co-op’s members are both the farmers and the chefs. We have a shared goal of making more and more local food available.
This is how Adam of Glebelands City Growers in Sale describes what MVP has meant for them:
“Glebelands has been involved with MVP from the start. Around a third of our income now comes through Veg People and this has allowed us to invest in new infrastructure such as a new packing shed. With the increase in local demand we have decided to take on more polytunnels which will help us grow more winter crops and further strengthen the business. Working closely with local caterers through Veg People gives us more security in making these investments as there is such a strong commitment between members. Building these links between growers and buyers around the city is what makes MVP special”
I count myself lucky that I feel no small amount of pride in being able to play my part in that.
Co-operative working, sales going up every month, being outside for parts of the working week, dealing with talented and committed people, handling beautiful produce, eating very well… What’s not to like?
MVP are currently recruiting for two more worker-members, one specialising in deliveries and the other in warehouse and orders (although both able to cover the other). If you’re interested in joining our small team go to http://www.vegpeople.org.uk/jobs. Closing date 31st May.