So what does The Food Team do?
Recent projects include:
The Vale of Taunton Farmers Market asked us to work with them at an ‘awayday’ where the 5 year strategic aims of the market were teased out. The management group were able to work together to agree the priorities for the development of the market and to use the skills of the members to full advantage. Kath helped in the presentation of the 5 year plan at the AGM.
Gill conducted an intriguing piece of research into the issues affecting the supply of local food. Some of the results were anticipated but the huge preference for making contact with new buyers and/or customers face to face was quite marked. The research also indicated the vast multiplicity of supply logistics within the local food sector. In fact the multiplicity of roles along the supply chain by many food businesses was apparent. This project formed part of the Developing Sustainable Food Chains Project which was South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) funded and managed by South West Food and Drink (SWFD). Thus the outputs were shared widely within the food sector.
The SWFD project manager said;‘ this is an excellent piece of work and there are a large number of very interesting topics coming out of it. It is very interesting and I am sure will stimulate a lot of discussion.’
Please contact us for a copy of the research report or access it here.
As part of the same SWRDA project Kath facilitated some Action Learning Sets which may best be described as a series of structured peer support networking meetings. This involved bringing small groups of business decision makers together to challenge and support one another. This is what some of the participating food businesses said:
"Brilliant experience – highly recommend it to anyone who is given a chance to get involved." Dairy Sales Manager
"The stuff I have gained from you guys is awesome’" Egg Farmer
‘..this has improved our business decision making..’ Artisan Fudge produce
‘..given me the confidence to feel I am doing the right things and given me support to know there are people I can learn and get help from.’ Managing Director, food manufacturer and distributer
‘Helped to crystallise what we needed to move the business forward’ Director organic luxury food manufacturer.
‘I personally now focus on important issues and set targets. I am using my time wisely to tackle business problems’ Beef farmer and farm shop owner.
‘ ..excellent and thought provoking’ Butcher, farmer, farm shop owner.
Please contact us for a copy of the ALS report or access it here.
Please give us a call for a no obligation chat about how The Food Team can help you and your business.
Photos on this page were kindly provided by Emma Grainger