Produced in Kent’s new direction

Produced in Kent is proud to represent food and drink businesses at such an exciting time for the industry. With British food generally gaining in popularity in and outside of the UK, the sector is flourishing in Kent and is attracting a growing number of tourists to the county. The demand for local sustainable food in particular is increasing, due to a growing public awareness of the need to protect the environment and use natural resources more efficiently. In the past months, we have been working hard on our Strategy 2020-2023. A final document is due to be approved by the Board end of March, but we are keen to share some of its main points with you. Passionate about putting Kent’s fabulous food and drink on the map, Produced in Kent’s vision for Kent is “to be recognised as the English region that sustainably produces, sells and serves the finest local food.” Its new strategy looks at how to best represent, promote and support a booming food and drink industry in an environment where economic uncertainty and climate change provide challenges, but also opportunities. Building on its sector expertise, loyal membership and well-established and respected brand, Produced in Kent wants to be seen as the industry voice in the county, a natural advisor to local and regional government on all matters concerning food and drink, and an online and offline source of information for members and customers alike. Concerned about the environment and keen to show the potential financial benefits of sustainable management, Produced in Kent wants to help its members become fully sustainable, and wants to become the go-to organisation for customers wishing to buy local and sustainable food. Through bespoke partnerships with strategic (educational institutions, Visit Kent, Locate in Kent) and corporate partners, Produced in Kent will develop a tailored business support package for its members - particularly in the areas of marketing, finance, innovation, skills development and productivity – helping them to grow, diversify and ‘give back’ by offering employment, contributing to the local economy and engaging with the Kent community. We are keen to hear your thoughts on Produced in Kent’s new direction. Please feel free to contact us with any questions, comments or concerns via tel. 01732 853170 or email: Last week, we met with over 70 Produced in Kent members at events in Mereworth and Ashford. On Wednesday 18 March, a Produced in Kent Meet the Member event plus mini food and drink fair will take place at Westgate Hall in Canterbury from 17:00 – 20:00hrs. Members and non-members are welcome to join us, find out more about our plans for 2020 and meet other Produced in Kent members. Registration is free, but places are limited so register NOW. Produced in Kent’s new membership package and fee structure is due to be launched in June 2020.