Producers to welcome 150 hospitality firms to north east Wales food and drink expo

INDEPENDENT food and drink companies from across north east Wales will unite to showcase the very best local produce the region has to offer.

More than 150 visitors from the hospitality and retail sectors are expected to attend the fifth Blas Lleol Meet the Producers exhibition at Theatr Clwyd in Mold on Tuesday.

Organised by Clwydian Range Food and Drink Group and Llangollen and Dee Valley Food and Drink Group, with the support of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Flintshire and Denbighshire councils, the programme runs from 9am until 1pm.

Joint co-coordinator Jane Clough said the event continues to go from str ength to strength and has proven vital to the industry in past years.

“The quality of the producers and attendees means there are always opportunities to build new relationships and attract potential customers to become part of the local food and drink supply chain,” said Jane.

“We have a vast array of different products on display that will appeal to hoteliers, café and restaurant owners and other businesses in the accommodation and hospitality arena.

“Ultimately, it’s about bringing people together and supporting the economy, which the producers and visitors appreciate.”

She added: “People are increasingly aware and passionate about where their food comes from, and the environment and sustainability, and we embrace that – this is why Meet the Producers has been so popular.”

Among the 25 firms to display their range of products will be Laurence Edwards, Director of Black Mountain Honey, based in Nercwys.

Echoing Jane’s words, he said having a platform to network and demonstrate taste and ingredients is a huge positive for local producers.

“We can speak to people on the phone or email them, but nothing comes close to being face to face and being able to show customers what we do, have them smell and taste the honey and explain the story behind it,” said Laurence.

“That’s why we are so pleased to be a part of this community of food and drink firms and delighted to be attending the event.”

Martin Godfrey, General Manager at Hafod Brewing Company in Mold was in agreement, and said: “Meet the Producers is really helpful for making new contacts and building our customer base, so we’re really looking forward to being there again. In the past we have gained new customers and contacts, so it’s been invaluable.”

As well as stands and demonstrations there will be tasting sessions, chef demonstrations and ‘huddles’ where exhibitors can meet and network.

For the first time the programme will be sponsored by the FSB, whose North Wales Senior Development Manager Mike Learmond said: “As an organisation working with small businesses this event is a great opportunity to support food and drink businesses in north east Wales. 

“Working alongside Flintshire and Denbighshire councils to help small businesses develop their customer base is an excellent partnership for us and we are working with the event organisers to make it a huge success.”