Grampian Producers Going for Growth at Aberdeen Meeting

The Grampian Food Forum hosted its first open meeting of 2011 in Aberdeen today (Tuesday, 14th June)) to discuss ‘Going for Growth’.

The event, which was attended by more than 30 delegates, was held at the Thistle Airport Hotel, Dyce and was aimed at local food and drink producers who are keen to look at ways to grow their businesses.

The conference, chaired by Keith Whyte of Mitchells and Chairman of the Grampian Food Forum Operations Group, heard from a range of speakers including Paula Cormack, Head of Marketing for the UK’s leading independent food ingredients manufacturer, Macphie of Glenbervie.

Paula shared her experience of the journey Macphie embarked upon to create and launch the company’s first consumer-facing brand, DeviliShh.

“We were honoured to be asked to speak at this event,” she said. “We are always keen to share reciprocal experiences and insight within the local business community in an effort to support growth in the local area.

“The development and launch of DeviliShh has enabled us to expand into the retail sector, a new area for Macphie.

“The products are highly innovative, being the first ready-to-make desserts on the market, and required a fresh new marketing approach which focussed heavily on sampling, but with a sales driven twist. One year on from launch our approach appears to be working with retail listings and sales growing rapidly.”

Local company Mackintosh of Glendaveny is a two-year-old business producing extra virgin cold pressed rapeseed oil which came about while owner, Gregor Mackintosh, was studying at the Scottish Agricultural College in Aberdeen. Gregor saw an opening in the market for this healthy product and began working on establishing the business.

The business is now the biggest of its type in Scotland, supplying not just ASDA, but a number of independent retailers and caterers.

The ASDA business required an investment of £50,000 to meet the demand and allow for further growth. Gregor shared his experiences on how he has steadily grown the business to achieve his current position.

The Forum also heard from Andrew Niven, INSIGHTS Manager for Scotland Food & Drink, who is now a regular speaker at Forum events across Scotland.

INSIGHTS provides up to the minute market information, intelligence and knowledge, which is vital to the future growth of the food and drink sector.

Martin Sutherland of Levercliff works on behalf of Scotland Food & Drink to deliver the supplier development programme. Martin gave tips on how to present to buyers and how to develop good negotiation skills.

Also on hand to provide practical support for local businesses was Senior Business Development Executive, Christine Webster from Aberdeenshire Council and Pat Christie from Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce.

For further information, please contact Grampian Food Forum Co-ordinator, Elizabeth Mathie on (01224) 664334 or email grampianfoodforum@aberdeenshire.gov.uk