The Queensland Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries Co-operative Limited (Brismark), has a rich history of representing, supporting and advocating for the fresh produce wholesalers based at the Brisbane markets. From its origins over 84 years ago to its latest digital advancements, Brismark continues to help shape the future of Queensland’s fresh produce supply chain and the central markets system.
Born in 1941 as an Association of Market Wholesalers, the organisation provided a unified voice for fresh produce wholesalers who wanted to have a say in their industry. In 1989, the organisation adopted the name Brismark.
During the 1950s, Brismark played a pivotal role in the relocation of Brisbane’s central market to Rocklea, which officially opened in 1964. This move was a major milestone, with the new site hailed as one of the best in the world at the time.
Over the years, Brismark expanded its offerings to include a diverse range of services – from a hardware store and garden centre to a petrol station and even a dedicated radio station broadcasting produce prices. While these ventures were eventually phased out, they reflect Brismark’s long-standing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its members.
In response to the financial challenges of the 1970s, Brismark introduced a Credit Service in 1973, a pivotal decision that was inspired by a credit control model found in the Toronto Terminal Market. This service remains a cornerstone of Brismark’s operations today, acting as the financial clearinghouse for the Brisbane markets and providing robust credit risk management for wholesalers and buyers. In the 2024/25 financial year, Brismark’s Credit Service throughput was over $819 million.
Another major turning point came in 1994, when Brismark joined with its members to form Landacq Limited, to pursue an industry owned central market. After years of lobbying, industry engagement and a competitive tender process, Landacq Limited successfully acquired the Brisbane markets from the State Government in 2002. The company was soon renamed to Brisbane Markets Limited, with Brismark as a major shareholder.
In 2024, Brismark launched the Brisbane Markets Price Report app – the first of its kind in Australia – delivering real-time, verifiable sales data directly from the markets trading floor. This innovation addressed a long-standing need for price transparency in the central markets.
Today, Brismark proudly represents 46 shareholder members, providing them and their associated businesses with a comprehensive suite of support services including credit management, market price reporting, human resources, industrial relations, work health and safety, quality assurance, produce testing, recruitment, training, bookkeeping and debt recovery. Brismark also plays an active role in industry representation and advocacy, including ongoing efforts related to the Horticulture Code of Conduct.
