'Taste of Warwickshire' stand stimulates many connections

“It was fantastic to see the level of engagement with businesses and organisations both locally and further afield.”

Visitors flocked to sample ‘The Taste of Warwickshire’ during the three-day NEC Farm Shop & Deli show at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham.

Warwickshire Food & Drink, the body created by Warwickshire County Council to promote the county’s rich offer in the sector, took a stand at the prestigious show to provide a platform for Warwickshire producers to reach a national and international audience.

That objective was well and truly fulfilled as the stand enjoyed a high level of engagement. Visitors from across the West Midlands region, the UK and around the world seized the opportunity to learn more about the quality and diversity of Warwickshire’s offer and many new contacts were made.

The high level of interest and number of enquiries was clear with the council’s four stand partners reporting more than 50 leads, a good proportion of which is expected to firm up into customers.

“It was fantastic to see the level of engagement with businesses and organisations both locally and further afield,” said WCC Rural Policy and Commissioning Officer, Abi Culley. “Numerous businesses based around the country told us that they wished their local authority would invest in such a great platform for Food & Drink in their area.

“It was a really successful initiative and we would like to thank our four stand partners - Cureights, Blabers Hall Vineyard, Bruel Beer and Warwickshire Gin - for their support.”

Any food or drink producer in Coventry or Warwickshire who would like to find out more about Warwickshire County Council’s food and drink producers network and keep up to date with opportunities to support the sector is  welcome to please contact tourism@warwickshire.gov.uk.