Twenty Irish food companies, from artisan cheese makers to global meat exporters, are taking part in Anuga, the world’s largest trade food fair this week, with their presence being organised and coordinated by Bord Bia.
Biennial event Anuga is currently taking place in Cologne, Germany, attracting more than 160,000 trade buyers from 187 countries. Germany alone represents Ireland’s fourth largest export market for food and drink, especially for dairy, beef and prepared foods, and was valued at €565 million in 2014.
The attending Irish food and drink companies will participate under Bord Bia’s Origin Greenstands within Anuga’s Meat, Dairy, Frozen Food and Bakery halls.
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Tom Hayes is visiting Anuga today (October 12)to officially launch Ireland’s presence at the show.
During his visit to Germany, Minister Hayes, along with Bord Bia Chief Executive Aidan Cotter, will meet with senior representatives from REAL Hypermarket, part of the Metro Group, the world’s fourth largest retailer with an annual turnover of €67 billion.
Speaking in advance of his visit, Minister Hayes said, “Anuga remains a crucial landmark on the food industry calendar and events such as this are fundamental to the industry’s drive in building exports.
“As a global showcase, attracting buyers from all over the world, Anuga offers a unique opportunity to meet and build relationships with new and existing buyers.”
Aidan Cotter, Chief Executive of Bord Bia, added that "It is encouraging that Irish food and drink exporters continue to grow their business in an increasingly competitive European marketplace.”
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Jenny Whelan.
