Food companies sought by Bord Bia and PwC
“This is the second year of the programme and feedback from last year has been extremely positive,” said Maria Stokes, Ascent programme manager, Bord Bia.
“We worked with a wide range of companies in year one, covering all sectors and sizes, and each had an unique challenge to overcome from distribution and logistics to succession planning and export growth strategies. Through one-to-one advice and mentoring from Bord Bia and PwC, the companies were provided with a customised action plan outlining clear workable solutions.”
Ascent participant Pauline Dunne from Killowen Farm said her business cut one day out of the production week, improving financial efficiencies by 10%. Fellow participant Ballymaloe Foods took on a new business development manager and has achieved 12% growth year on year.
Maxine Hyde of Ballymaloe Foods said: “We were thrilled to be part of the inaugural Bord Bia Ascent programme.
It helped us shape our growth plans and ideas on how best to move forward with them. PwC provided excellent advice on succession planning, tax, affording and incentivising key employees.”
Applications are now open on www.BordBia.ie for this year’s Ascent programme. Applicants should have an annual turnover between €1m and €20m.
There is a €500 participation fee for companies who avail of this service. Deadline is Wednesday, March 30.
