Avocado Industry Launches VR Training Program

The Australian avocado industry has launched what is being described as a world-first virtual reality training program aimed at improving fruit quality across the supply chain.

The system uses VR technology to train workers in orchard harvesting, packing, transport and retail handling, with modules accessible through headsets, tablets and mobile devices.

The project has been developed through Hort Innovation and Avocados Australia in partnership with Woolworths, which is expected to roll the training out across more than one thousand stores nationally from July.

Industry leaders say the technology will help improve consistency and reduce fruit damage, while also addressing labour turnover and ongoing training challenges across the horticulture sector.

Avocados Australia chief executive John Tyas says every stage of the supply chain plays a role in delivering quality fruit to consumers, and the program is designed to create a more consistent eating experience.

The program was officially launched this week at the Avo Connections conference in Adelaide, where growers, retailers and supply chain operators trialled the first training modules ahead of the national rollout next month.