Emergence of foreign chains of super- and hypermarkets in Poland in 1990’s resulted in major changes in food distribution systems. Several channels, especially concerning FMCG were shortened. Foreign trade chains, aspiring to optimize transactions and possessing great economic potential, established direct contacts with producers, including agricultural producers, passing over the wholesale level. Opportunities and threats perceived by fruits and vegetables producers are an interesting element of the cooperation. This research shows that the main advantages for fruits and vegetables producers to deliver to hypermarkets are: certainty of payment, sale of large batches of goods as well as certainty and stability of the market. Main disadvantages are: low prices during promotions and high charges.

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