Food for thought as Network gains cash
Group wins vital funding to promote cuisine scene
Ayrshire Food Network, the regional food group that aims to grow a thriving food and drink network in the area, has secured funding to champion local produce.
The group, which is made up of food producers, hospitality and tourism businesses, and other parties with an interest in the sector, is receiving the funding from industry leadership body, Scotland Food & Drink.
It is part of a new national £ 250,000 fund, supported by the Scottish Government, to support the ongoing development of Scotland’s regional food groups.
Over the next 12 months, the Network is tasked with enhancing its engagement with local businesses, supporting its members and encouraging consumers to buy local via a variety of channels, including online composite home deliveries.
Ayrshire is home to some of Scotland’s best- known products including the PGI- certified Ayrshire Dunlop cheese, Ayrshire potatoes and specialist seafood like squat lobster tails.
The Network that promotes these products and the array of other food and drink businesses across the region was founded in 2002.
It originated from the Ayrshire Farmers’ Market Cooperative but developed to encompass all local produce and their consumption
among the public, food service and retail markets, sporting and tourism events.
Howard Wilkinson, voluntary chairperson at Ayrshire Food Network, said: “Supporting local food and drink businesses is more important than ever as we all recover from the impacts of coronavirus restrictions.
“We all have a role to play in supporting our local rural economy which benefits not only
our local communities but is also environmentally more friendly by shortening supply chains.
“The funding from Scotland Food & Drink will be incredibly important to the future of our organisation as it will provide a dedicated and knowledgeable resource to complement our core of volunteers.
“We are delighted to have secured the services of Sheena Horner of Food from Farming to
assist us drive this forward as our coordinator.
“She brings a wealth of experience and expertise with her and has been working independently with several of our members for some time.”
Fiona Richmond, head of regional food at Scotland Food & Drink, added: “Regional food groups like Ayrshire Food Network have a pivotal role to play in the successful growth and development of our country’s food, drink and food tourism sectors, especially in the recovery from Covid- 19.
“With a combination of both long- established groups, those which are more recently formed, and some which are brand new, Scotland’s diverse mix of regional food groups all have energy, ambition and a commitment to championing their areas.”