Success for Produced in Kent’s inaugural ‘meet the buyer’ event

County trade group Produced in Kent has heralded the success of its first ‘meet the buyer’ event in Faversham last week.

The event came as part of a new membership package for the region’s producers, growers and crafters.

Members heard from industry wholesale buyers and were given the opportunity to pitch their products and network with key players in the industry.

Susie Warran-Smith CBE, chair of Produced in Kent, said: “Our latest member event in a new format was incredibly well received.

“It’s really helping buyers and distributors who are already committed to local sourcing and reducing food miles to be connected to great Kent products.”

The panel of buyers included Steve Clarke of Q Catering, Laura Bounds MBE of Curd & Cure and Steve Oram of Kent Veg Box.

Susie added:“I think it’s disgraceful when I go to a restaurant, pub or venue and they’re dishing out French champagne instead of beautiful sparkling wine from Kent, or a cheese from another country when we have the best cheese in the world now.

“Consumers are keen to support local, so I want to see the industry respond.

“I think as an organisation we should start naming and shaming the worst offenders.

“The latest event I went to at the House of Commons was serving French champagne, which is more expensive than the better-quality British stuff. Shame on them!”

Produced in Kent’s new membership package includes exclusive access to retail buyers, distributors, taste and branding experts.

The organisation promises to help its members ‘learn more’, through specialist workshops and training; ‘grow more’, through networking; and ‘sell more’, through access to buyers and distribution channels. 

Rachel Pynenburg, founder of Miam Jars, said at the event: “It’s been really valuable to hear from the wholesalers today, what they are looking for in terms of products and what drives them.

“Having the opportunity to see them face-to-face has enabled a greater connection and a relationship we look to take forwards.

“It’s also been fantastic for networking opportunities. I’m always delighted to attend these types of events – they’re invaluable to our business.” 

The next member-exclusive ‘meet the expert’ event will be held on 18 September, with a panel of tasting experts who’ll provide feedback on the visual appeal, aroma, mouth feel and flavour of members’ products.