The programme, a brand/marketing management development programme, will run from June until October 2010. It is ideal for food manufacturers as it not only provides them with new skills sets at training workshops but it also has a practical side by means of one to one on-site mentoring.
During the five months, participants will partake in 4 full days of training which will cover topics including: identifying key markets, branding, sales, marketing, packaging, negotiating with buyers, product pricing and distribution. As well as the training they will receive a number of one to one mentoring sessions and will have the opportunity to exhibit at SHOP 2010, Ireland’s leading food and drink expo. Earlier this month, the participants went on a guided retail and producers visit to Dublin, during which they met with the Dublin Airport Authority, a successful food manufacturing company, an owner/manager of a leading chain store, and a unique artisan food store. The highlight of the visit was meeting with Senator Feargal Quinn who gave them some words of advice on how to run and manage a successful business in today’s challenging environment.
Dublin based James Burke and Yvonne Scully, with West Cork family roots, have been contracted to deliver the programme on behalf of the Boards this year. Both have a wealth of knowledge and experience of the food sector and all participating companies are excited about working with James and Yvonne during the programme. Speaking at the launch James commented: “The 12 producers on the programme are probably one of the most innovative mixes we have worked with to date and we excited about the prospect of supporting them for the duration of the programme. Cork has long being associated with innovative artisan food production and this year’s group are testament to that”.
The combined group of producers employ over 70 staff within the South and West Cork regions and have an annual turnover close to €10m. Many of the raw ingredients for their products are also sourced locally further contributing to the micro economy. During such challenging times, these Cork based producers are taking their future into their own hands as they embark on a programme that will allow them develop and grow as key food producers throughout the country.
Participants Aileen and Michael O’Neill from Irish Atlantic Salt in Castletownbere are manufacturing a gourmet sea salt which is already in high demand from the multiples. Speaking on her participation on the programme, Aileen commented: “I am delighted to be partaking in this programme which will no doubt be of significant value to our business. Small food businesses need and rely on support such as training and mentoring from the Enterprise Boards. It’s fantastic to see such a programme in Cork”.
Link to photos taken at the launch