08 January 2010

ISLAND FOOD SECTOR PLANS FOR GROWTH

The Isle of Wight Economic Partnership today issued the report of the findings of an Island wide survey of the food sector, including growers, producers and processors.

The survey was commissioned by the South East Food Group Partnership which recognised the importance of having an improved understanding of the Isle of Wight food sector, from growers through to producers and retailers. The Economic Partnership compiled a database of 268 farmers, growers and food processors using a postal questionnaire; to date 52 questionnaires have been completed.

Key objectives of the survey included; building a current overview of the Island’s food sector, seeking producer feedback on the merits of establishing a food group on the Isle of Wight and assisting with decisions about future support and strategic planning.

Graham Biss, Chief Executive of the Isle of Wight Economic Partnership said “We have had a great response to this survey, but we are still encouraging any business involved in the food sector to contact us so their views and needs can be added to our report.” He continued,

“It’s important that any future activity surrounding local Isle of Wight food is representative of the sector as a whole. The more support given from Isle of Wight businesses can only strengthen our position when seeking key funding”.

The Isle of Wight Food Sector Survey found expansion is planned by 43% of farmers and growers, with the highest levels of confidence coming from the livestock sectors, with the development of direct supply a main feature of their plans. Processors are also looking to expand, with 80% having plans for growth stimulated by the increased demand for local produce.

In addition, strong support was given for an Isle of Wight food group by 70% of farmers/growers and 80% of processors who responded. Specifically the respondents said there was a need for the food sector to have a clear identity with a focus on delivering specialist advice, opportunities for networking, marketing support and collaboration.

Sharon McNally of Sharon Orchard said “We work incredibly hard to produce quality local food and we just don’t have the time to seek funding and facilitate the opportunities which could help us grow. Any additional resource would be invaluable to us”.

The food survey showed minimal evidence of businesses selling direct to non-farming outlets such as restaurants and pubs and although there were some linkages between tourism and education and Island food there is a need to develop these areas. Those producers who had moved along the food chain, in the main, supported farmers markets and/or their own farm shop. However, wholesale outlets were dominated by off-island businesses especially in the livestock sectors, reflecting the absence of an Island abattoir. Through the survey, the food sector also called for greater facilitation and co-ordination of local and regional food events.

Most recently (January 2010), Defra published the Government’s new food strategy which sets out the vision of what they would like the food system to look like in 2030. In the strategy, local and regional bodies are tasked with supporting action locally to help businesses, including primary producers, and consumers to get what they need. Further, consumers must be able to find out more about food – how and where it is produced and to use their influence and spending power to support those who produce sustainable and healthy food.

Brian Friend, Chairman of the Isle of Wight Economic Partnership said “The Island’s agricultural, forestry and fishing industries generated an output of £30m in 2007 and provided 2,200 full-time jobs. Taking into account the whole food sector, the estimated direct value to the island’s economy is £150M. Along with the recent publication of Defra’s food report, and in view of the interest and demand in local food, now is the opportune time to get behind the food sector and take it forward in a collaborative manner.”

Graham Biss concluded “Building on the knowledge gained and the feedback received we are now proposing to seek support and funding to establish an industry led Island Food Group to give additional support for the food sector businesses”.