Woolworths has sacked three executives from its buying department because of alleged irregularities in dealings with fruit and vegetable wholesalers at Sydney's Flemington markets. 

Woolworths yesterday confirmed it had terminated the services of Colin Hudson, head of fresh produce merchandising for NSW, senior vegetable buyer David Heffernan and deputy national business manager Peter Sillcock earlier this month, The Australian reports.

"Woolworths recently investigated an alleged breach of the company's code of conduct," a spokeswoman said. "We have a zero-tolerance approach for any breach of policy and unfortunately had to make the difficult decision to terminate the employment of three staff members."

The breaches are understood to relate to supply arrangements for fruit and vegetables for Woolworths supermarkets in Sydney and other regions.

Woolworths has not involved the authorities in its investigation.

Sydney Markets Ltd, owner of Flemington Markets, did not respond to requests for comment.

Source: The Australian