We are well into 2017 and innovative collaborations continue to happen
January 22-24th saw our two newest members Bhaile Craft bakery, and All that's Delicious at the #Speciality Food Show ..In addition to winning category awards , there was very significant commercial interest in their excellent product ranges .
Feb 8th provided the unique opportunity for Ayrshire & Arran producers to take their produce to an Ayrshire Larder event at the Palace of Westminster in London.. as part of a #Loveayrshire joint event .. the setting was historic and the reception given to the produce was most encouraging ..We thank our local MPs for sponsoring the event . and the 3 councils for making it possible .
Particular thanks goes to Neil McAleese for organising and mastering the formidable logistical challenge, and to the 3 ambassadors from @Ayrshirecollege who transformed excellent ingredients into exciting canapes. 10 AFN members were present or were represented
@Slowfooduk was there plus #TheCooksCompanyofLondon .. a City of London livery company which has been established for 600 years plus ... between them they know a lot about food and drink , and recognise quality when they experience it ... they really enjoyed meeting the personalities behind the produce !!
Planning is now going ahead for the new monthly street market in Troon launching in March , and a reorganised monthly Saturday farmers market at Burns Birthplace museum at Alloway starting in April In addition there will be a new weekly food and craft market in Girvan launching on Good Friday
These will compliment the monthly AFM Sunday market at Ayr Central and the long established monthly markets in Ayr high street and Kilmarnock
Full details and links can be found in the Ayrshire Larder Food and drinks event calender embedded in the members section of the Ayrshire Food Network web site
Further along the horizon the Dumfries House Food fair will restart in April along with the NTS Culzean market Activities
For many their sights are already set on the 3rd Ballantrae food and drink festival scheduled for Sunday 11th June .. .. As last year , it is anticipated that more than 20 members will be involved
As for the two major international Golf events being held at Dundonald Links in July the hospitality opportunities are perhaps boundless
Meanwhile we should try no doubt to keep our feet on the ground and focused on satisfying our customer needs and requirements
good luck and please remember to share your good news stories