Why we’re trying something new
Through surveys in 2023 and 2025, organisations working on food access told us they needed food that was more affordable, reliable, good quality, and offered choice – with a focus on Tasmanian supply where possible.
Emergency food relief will always remain essential, but on its own it doesn’t always support ongoing food access or everyday choice.
So we’re trialing a social wholesaler approach: using our existing buying power and infrastructure to help community organisations access lower cost, quality food they can supply or use through their own programs. The goal is to see whether this strengthens community food delivery, improves long-term food access and gets more local food on the plates of Tasmanians.
Who we’re aiming to support
We are currently trialling the wholesaler with a small number of community organisations to make sure we have all our procurement and supply chain ducks in a row. If all goes well, we will look to expand the wholesaler in the second half of 2026.
We want to work with:
Food Relief Providers
Community Organisations
Neighbourhood Houses
Community Meals Programs & Kitchens
Early Learning Centres & Schools
Why shop with us
- We aim to be cheaper than the supermarkets
- Fresh, seasonal produce from Tasmanian growers
- No lock-in contracts
- Every order helps support jobs for folks experiencing long term unemployment
- Every order strengthens food security and support other communities across the state
How every purchase makes a difference
The Social Wholesaler operates as a not-for-profit social enterprise. When you buy food through the Social Wholesaler, you are also supporting paid jobs and training pathways for Tasmanians who face barriers to employment.
We provide supported employment for people who may struggle to enter or stay in traditional workplaces, in roles such as hospitality, warehousing, logistics and administration. Participants are offered flexible work arrangements, mentoring, wellbeing support and access to training, so they can learn at their own pace and build confidence at work.
Proceeds from the Social Wholesaler help create more job pathways and get more food to Tasmanians who need it.
Get in touch
E: socialwholesaler@lft.org.au
P: VXT number coming
L: 130 Brighton Road, Brighton TAS
