The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG addressed the rising costs of running a food production company and forthcoming legislative food safety regulations at its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Thursday.
There were over fifty representatives from Wexford’s food production companies in attendance as they raised their concerns.
The Food, Drink & Primary Production sector accounts for 40% of all export sales by Irish-owned companies, directly supporting 165,000 jobs or 6.5% of total employment, predominantly in rural and coastal communities.
The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG provides a centralised member-led and member-representative organisation with a core remit to promote and support the business of Wexford food.
It has over fifty members who are Wexford-based sole traders, SME’s and larger companies.
The organisation contributes to building a sustainable food industry that works collaboratively to achieve a stronger economic impact not just in Wexford, but for the entire Irish economy.
To address some of the current issues, head of the economics unit in Wexford County Council Breege Cosgrave attended the meeting to discuss possible solutions with attendees.
Senior enterprise development officer Annette Rowsome also hosted a presentation, highlighting various opportunities whereby micro enterprise food companies starting their journey in food production could seek advice and various funding streams support.
‘Many Challenges Lie Ahead’
Speaking about the challenges, chairperson Trudie Power mentioned of the difficulties many Wexford food producers face in their respective businesses.
Power said, “The cost of doing business in Ireland post-pandemic has considerably increased and many challenges lie ahead not only for well-established businesses but for out micro enterprise category members who are only just starting out on their food production journey.
“Increases in delivery costs due to significant rises in fuel costs, cost of building materials and labour while upgrading premises, availability of a trained workforce as businesses grow and the cost of raw materials have all increased significantly.
“Now more than ever the relationship between our food producers and Wexford Local Enterprise Office is so very important as they provide vital support to new and established Wexford food production companies.”
For more information, visit www.wexfordfoodfamily.com.
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