A new strategic vision for Welsh food and drink

The Welsh Government, in partnership with wider industry, has announced plans to become one of the most environmentally and socially responsible supply chains in the world.

Outlined as part of anindustry-wide strategic vision, it seeks to build on the firm foundations laid over recent years by its food innovation centres, industry business clusters, and fine food start-up programmes.

Commenting on the announcement the Welsh Government’s Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths MS, said:

“The last year has been one of extreme disruption for the industry, from Brexit through to Covid-19. However, we must plan for a future that ensures food and drink businesses flourish over the coming years, both financially and ethically.

Here in Wales, we’ve always known the importance of doing things sustainably, so the larder is well-stocked for future generations. Those values now seem more important than ever. Our future vision is in step with this drive to make Wales the definition for quality and sustainable food and drink.”

One way the Welsh Government is currentlylookingto mainstream sustainability ethos throughout the industry is supporting trail-blazing innovators through its Food and Drink Sustainability Cluster. The group has already been inundated with interest from businesses keen to collaborate, share best practise, as they seek to work together to raise standards and implement the vision.

The announcement comes as plans are well underway for this year’s BlasCymru/TasteWales 2021 trade event, which will be held over 27-28 October 2021 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Wales, in Newport. The event will be the third time that producers, buyers and food industry professionals from across the globe gather at Wales’ signature international food and drink trade event and conference.

International buyers are invited to register their interest in participating and will benefit from a host of services, including a showcase of products, meet the supplier event and assistance in sourcing Welsh food and drink ingredients from branded through to private label.

To register to attend visit tastewales.com