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Pictured at the launch of SECAD’s Food Enterprise and Innovation Strategy were Casey O’Conaill (O’Conaill’s Chocolate), Jane Murphy (Ardsallagh Goats Cheese), Ryan Howard (SECAD), Annie Murphy (Annie’s Roasts) and Sandra Burns (Joe’s Farm Crisps), all of which have been supported by SECAD. Photo: Gerard McCarthy

A unique Artisan Food Enterprise and Innovation Strategy 2015-2020 was announced on Saturday, September 5th by SECAD (South and East Cork Area Development). The report outlines a comprehensive strategy to support the significant artisan food and processing sector and further develop the industry in rural Cork.

Speaking at the launch, CEO SECAD Ryan Howard said, “Through research, engagement with food enterprises and benchmarking activities, the report has developed a vision and pathway for the artisan food sector in Cork that will create more jobs, promote and develop the sector sustainably and ensure that the region is fully equipped to capitalise on the opportunity to build high quality artisan food companies in this region.”

The artisan food and processing sector in South and East Cork makes a significant contribution to the social and economic fabric of the region, and now has over 100 active food processors, ranging from start up’s to micro enterprises and established SME’s. As part of the strategic review and planning process, SECAD commissioned in-depth research on the agribusiness and artisan food industries and an analysis of the future development requirements of the Artisan Food sector in South and East Cork, under the current LEADER programme (2014-2020). SECAD is ideally positioned to deliver the pathway outlined in the strategy report under the new programme in support of the sector.

STRONGER FOOD ECONOMY

Further mentoring support, specific food-related training, supports for product and business innovation, access to research and development and the establishment of food clusters and food business networks within the region were all highlighted as areas for further support to build a stronger food economy in South and East Cork.

“Overall the food sector is going through a period of growth, national targets are being achieved in terms of exports. However, to maintain this we need further investment in the next generation of Artisan Food enterprise success stories. This will require investment from grass roots in start up artisan food enterprises and ongoing investment in established enterprises to assist them in getting to a level where they can scale up to the next level sustainably.

SECAD is an effective mechanism for identifying and implementing targeted food production supports, promotion and advisory services and is ideally positioned to implement the food strategy in the Cork region.

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