AN ISLAND survey has shown almost half of farmers and growers who responded intend to expand their businesses.
And food processors also intend to expand, with 80 per cent having plans for growth, based on increased demand for local produce.
The results of the survey, commissioned by the South East Food Group Partnership, were announced by the IW Economic Partnership, who found strong backing for establishing a food group on the Island, which could ease the way to securing future funding.
The Island wide survey included the food sector, growers, producers and processors. The economic partnership compiled a database of 268, using a postal questionnaire; to date 52 questionnaires have been completed.
Key objectives of the survey included building a current overview of the Island’s food sector, seeking producer feedback on the merits of establishing a food group on the IW and assisting with decisions about future support and strategic planning.
Graham Biss, chief executive of the IW Economic Partnership said "We have had a great response to this survey but we are still encouraging any business involved in the food sector to contact us so their views and needs can be added to our report."
The survey found expansion is planned by 43 per cent of farmers and growers, with the highest levels of confidence coming from the livestock sectors, with the development of direct supply a main feature of their plans.
Processors are also looking to expand, with 80 per cent having plans for growth stimulated by the increased demand for local produce.
Sharon McNally, of Sharon Orchard, said: "We work incredibly hard to produce quality local food and we just don’t have the time to seek funding and facilitate the opportunities which could help us grow. Any additional resource would be invaluable to us".
The food survey showed minimal evidence of businesses selling direct to non-farming outlets such as restaurants and pubs and although there were some linkages between tourism and education and Island food there was a need to develop these areas.
Brian Friend, chairman of the economic partnership, said the estimated direct value to the Island’s economy of the food sector was £150 million.
Reporter: suep@iwcpmail.co.uk