New event brings food and drink buyers and producers together
01/10/24A new event that brought together award-winning Manx food and drink producers with buyers, hoteliers, and restaurateurs was held in Douglas last week.
The exclusive 'Meet Your Producer' event at Market Hall is part of a new collaboration between the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) and the Department for Enterprise (DfE), which are working together to boost support for local producers.
The evening saw around two dozen exhibitors showcasing their wares, including Great Taste Award winners in dairy, drinks, snacks, meats, and seafood, to around 35 businesses and buyers, including major retailers Tesco and Coop.
This initiative is part of the Government's plans to diversify support for local producers, and follows an expanded presence at the Island’s two summer agricultural shows.
Claire Christian MHK, political member for DEFA, said: "This event is just one of the new ways we are supporting our fantastic producers to ensure that they have fresh opportunities to connect with new markets."
As well as major retailers, the event gave local food and drink producers the chance to explore, sample, and network with café, restaurant, bar, hotel, and shop owners.
Tim Johnston MHK, Minister for Enterprise, added: "The launch of this event reflects our new, collaborative approach to driving economic growth for local food and drink producers. By working together, we're able to provide meaningful support that delivers real value to this important sector."
A working group has also been formed to plan future initiatives for 2025 and beyond.
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New event brings food and drink buyers and producers together
