The Louth LEADER Food Network

On behalf of the speciality food sector in County Louth, Leader has granted €39,000 towards the setting up of the Food Network. We are delighted to introduce this new, exciting venture for 2006, a venture we feel will bring unique long-term benefits to this sector.

What is the Food Network?

The Food Network will bring together small- and medium-sized food enterprises engaged in the production of speciality, artisan food products and interested in collective marketing and promoting. There is a growing market for innovative food products, and together we will maximise your customer base and raise your public profile. You will benefit from the expertise and knowledge of our Food Specialist, Michelle O’Brien, and also from the experiences of your fellow networkers, all of whom are business owners in this niche sector.

Who is the project leader?

The programme is being developed and led by Michelle O’Brien, a highly qualified and experienced food expert with expertise in food technology, finance and marketing.  She has worked with various high-profile clients, including Lakeshore and Boyne Valley Foods, and more recently worked with Meath LEADER, providing in-depth analysis of the speciality food sector in County Meath and the requisite marketing and other services to support that county’s food producers. Michelle is now going to do the same for the County Louth producers.

What supports and benefits will I receive by participating?

• Training/mentoring and support, including HACCP, hygiene regulations, labelling information, packaging, distribution and cost cutting, etc.
• Access to a newly created countywide network of speciality food producers.
• Examination and implementation of collective or group marketing opportunities.
• Specific branding for the Louth region – an approach the Leader employed very successfully for Louth tourism.
• Comprehensive and subsidised training programme.
• Subsidised in-company mentoring service
• Excellent networking opportunities
• Close liaison with other State bodies.

Interested?

If you would like to participate in the Food Network, get in touch with us now. You can contact Michelle O’Brien at 041-6857374 or at info@louthleader.com