South-East food producers eye opportunities for export growth

Food producers in Waterford and from across the South-East said that thousands of euros in new sales orders and export opportunities will be gained from this week’s ‘Meet the Buyer’ forum in Kilkenny.

More than 20 producers from counties Kilkenny, Carlow, Wexford, Waterford, and Tipperary met national and international buyers at the first South-East regional buyer/producer networking event in the Lyrath Hotel on Wednesday — a new initiative which will provide a boost to the region’s developing agri-food sector.

The producers showcased their food to the buyers, who met them individually to review their product ranges and offer advice on making deals, packaging and presentation.

Waterford producers included Dessert First in Ferrybank, Ribworld/Kilely Meats in Grannagh, and Glorious Sushi at the Sixcrossroads Business Park.

Among the big buyers with international links attending the event were Sodexo Ireland, Compass Group PLC, and Breaks Ireland, who between them have an annual spend of €100m.