Being named a finalist in the 2025 Sydney Markets Fresh Awards is a proud milestone for the team at Gourmand Providore.
For Director Abboud Jraij, the recognition is a reflection of the entire business, from the warehouse crew and drivers to the sales and production teams.
“Being named a Sydney Markers Fresh Award finalist is a huge honour, it validates the hard work of every person in our business, from the warehouse crew and drivers to the sales and production teams. It’s a proud moment for us all,” Jraij told RetailBiz.
It’s recognition for work that often goes unseen. Long before sunrise, the team is already in motion, coordinating with growers and ensuring every order meets high standards for quality and service.
“What many people don’t see is the 10pm starts, the constant communication with growers, and the daily juggling act required to ensure product quality, consistency, and service, all before most people have had their coffee,” said Jraij.
“Feeding Sydney isn’t just about logistics; it’s about relationships, stamina, and a passion for food.”
Food passion beyond restaurants
That passion extends well beyond restaurants. Gourmand Providore supplies schools, aged care homes, hospitals, and charitable kitchens.
For Jraij, knowing their produce helps nourish vulnerable communities gives the work added meaning.
“It gives us purpose beyond business,” said Jraij.
“Whether it’s nourishing a patient in recovery, supporting school children, or helping charitable kitchens serve warm meals to those doing it tough, our team knows that what they do matters.”
Looking ahead, the business is investing in smarter systems, enhancing traceability and reducing errors, while exploring opportunities to expand regionally. But technology, Jraij noted, is only useful if it serves people.
“If it doesn’t help our customers or community, we don’t do it,” said Jraij.
For General Manager Dean Upston, the key to growth has been balancing decades of industry experience with digital agility.
Digital agility as key
Tools like FreshO, their online ordering system, and WooDelivery, their real-time logistics platform, help streamline operations without compromising on the personal, hands-on knowledge that comes from years at the Markets.
‘We’re blending hands-on market experience with digital agility and that’s our sweet spot,” said Upston.
These systems have transformed the client experience. From temperature monitoring and photographic proof of delivery to monthly spend reports, clients gain full visibility and control.
“It’s been transformative. Clients now get full visibility of when deliveries are arriving, down to temperature monitoring and photographic proof of delivery,” explained Upston.
For sectors like health and aged care, food safety and reliability are paramount.
Focus on food safety and sustainability
Gourmand Providore operates under strict HACCP protocols, holds an A Rating from the NSW Food Authority, and maintains internal checks and allergen management systems.
For the business, Upston said that “food safety is non-negotiable.”
Sustainability is also embedded into their operations. By switching to locally sourced recyclable packaging, donating over five tonnes of fresh scraps weekly to farmers, and promoting imperfect produce through menu planning support, the team is working to reduce food and packaging waste across the supply chain.
“Sustainability isn’t a side project, it’s part of everything we do,” said Upston.
From high-end restaurants to essential care institutions, Gourmand Providore continues to show that fresh produce is about more than food; it’s about community, trust, and impact.
The Fresh Awards finalist nod is not just a recognition of excellence, but a celebration of purpose-driven service.