This year, we were invited to present on what a future collaboration between our organisations could look like. Michael Davidson, our Chief Operating Officer, took to the stage to outline how a partnership with Metcash could continue to evolve and deliver meaningful impact.

Michael highlighted how support at a Distribution Centre level could play a critical role through the donation of aged, deleted or damaged food and grocery items that cannot be sold through normal retail channels. He also spoke about broader opportunities, including access to special buys, cause‑related marketing, advocacy across industry and suppliers, and internal business engagement through volunteering initiatives and food drives.

At a store level across the metro area, Michael reinforced Metcash’s ongoing commitment to working with trusted local food relief partners – without compromising on brand standards. He highlighted how partnering with Foodbank helps ensure food reaches those most in need, delivering genuine impact within local communities.

The impact of the Trade Show was clear in the volume of donations received. In total, we came away with 4,102 kilograms of food and grocery donations, including:

• Mixed Groceries: 1,364kg
• Fruit and Vegetables: 1,291kg
• Meat / Protein: 582kg
• Drinks: 487kg
• Mixed Chilled: 283kg
• Mixed Frozen: 95kg

This represents a significant increase compared to 2,503 kilograms collected in 2025, highlighting the growing commitment of retailers and suppliers to supporting food relief and community impact.

Michael was joined at the Metcash Trade Show by Latisha Hoera, Head of Customer and Network Operations, and Jarrad Anastasio, Supply Chain Manager. Both agreed the event provided the ideal setting to strengthen relationships with independent retailers, suppliers and the Metcash team, encouraging fresh thinking, strong partnerships and future‑ready growth.