Reconnecting and Reinforcing: MWW Visits Key Suppliers Across China

At MWW, we know that strong relationships with our supply chain partners are the bedrock of delivering safe, ethical, and high-quality fresh produce. As a top-tier family business with global reach, our commitment to long-term collaboration ensures we maintain the high standards our customers expect. That’s why our Technical Director, David Alder, and Senior Procurement Manager, Pascal Simian, recently undertook a significant journey across China to reconnect in person with some of our key supply partners in the country.

Strengthening Connections Post-Pandemic

After years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, this two-week trip marked an important milestone—our first senior face-to-face meetings in China for a while. Covering more than 18,000 miles by air, rail, and road, David and Pascal visited farms and packhouses that form a vital part of our global supply chain. These partners provide core products including ginger, mange tout, and sugar snap peas—items that appear daily on supermarket shelves.

For David, who hadn’t visited the country for a few years the return to China was not only a chance to reconnect with long-standing partners but also to witness first-hand the rapid economic, infrastructural, and technological developments reshaping the country.

From Ginger Fields to Lychee Orchards

David and Pascal had a packed itinerary which saw them carry out eight in-depth audits across multiple growing regions. This included:

• Assessing production, hygiene, and food safety standards

• Reviewing traceability and handling procedures

• Identifying opportunities for improvement

• Exploring potential alternative sources of emerging and seasonal products

• Strengthening collaborative development plans

What they found during their visits was highly encouraging: rigorous hygiene protocols, robust traceability systems, and a shared dedication to producing the best quality crops possible. In many cases, supplier practices exceeded our expectations—yet the visit also highlighted opportunities for innovation and refinement.

With sustainability and resilience top of mind, the team also explored promising new partnerships that could diversify and strengthen MWW’s long-term sourcing model.

Culture, Cuisine, and Context

Beyond the technical and procurement agenda, the trip offered rich cultural experiences. From bustling megacities to remote agricultural regions, David and Pascal were immersed in the dynamic tapestry of modern China. With English increasingly spoken and translation tools bridging communication gaps, they embraced local cuisine and customs—gaining deeper insights into one of the nations that shapes our global food system.

The Human Touch in a Digital Age

While modern technology keeps us connected across continents and oceans, this trip reminded us that nothing replaces the value of being there in person. Walking the fields, stepping into the packhouses, and sharing meals with partners—these experiences build the trust and understanding that no video call can replicate.

At MWW, we believe true partnership means showing up, listening, and working together toward better outcomes—for growers, for retailers, and for the families we ultimately serve.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to continuous improvement and ethical sourcing in our supply chains.

Because at MWW, we’re not just creating global food supply chains—we’re also growing connections.