Boost for Sussex produce at Meet the Buyer trade event

Buyers from across the UK will attend the trade only showcase at the East Sussex National Hotel, near Uckfield on February 3 as part of The Good Food Growth Project.

Graham Peters, vice chairman of the South East Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “A recent Which? Survey revealed that 90 per cent of people in the UK are more likely to buy British-made products and that local food and drink is good for the environment.

“The event will include a range of the very best produce from our region with the goal of attracting more customers for our local businesses and to encourage shops, wholesalers and restaurants, both inside and outside the region, to serve and sell more produce made here in East Sussex.”

More than 30 local artisan producers will offer tastings at the event which will showcase a wide range of products such as fresh produce, meat, dairy, ambient products, baked goods, soft drinks, wine, beer and spirits.

Businesses taking part include Bedlam Brewery, Bignose and Beardy cider makers, Ditchling’s Court Garden Vineyard, Downsview Dairy Produce, Latchetts Farm, Ouse Valley Foods, Veasey and Sons Fishmongers, Vegelove and many more.

The Good Food Growth Project is funded by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP), with support from East Sussex County Council, and is intended to boost the local rural economy.

A series of networking and training workshops for local food and drink producers to help them attract new customers and build their businesses has been taking place during the partnership.

Food and Drink traders still have time to book a stall at the event and buyers can register their interest.

More information is available from Paula Seagar at [email protected]