The inaugural Irish Food Trade Connect Forum is taking place next week, Thursday 21 March, at the Killashee Hotel in Kildare.

The event is designed to provide food producers with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the complexities of international trade. The ultimate goal is for Irish businesses in attendance to go home with the tools they need for international success.

The value of Ireland’s food, drink and horticulture exports reached €16.3bn in 2023, which was a decline of 4% on 2022.

In 2024, persistent challenges remain in labour, input expenses, and meeting sustainability accreditation standards, amid anticipated market deflation pressures from customers.

International market

Food industry professionals seeking to expand their businesses have an opportunity to gain insights, seek solutions to economic, social, and environmental challenges and connect with industry experts at the Irish Food Trade Connect Forum.

Margaret Dineen, organiser of the event and founder of Blue Sky Food Consulting said, “The Irish Food Trade Connect Forum is an invaluable resource for food industry professionals who are ready to take their businesses to the next level.We are committed to providing attendees with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to succeed in the domestic and global marketplace.”

About the event

Speakers will address a range of topics, including:

  • Product development and branding for export markets
  • Identifying ideal target markets abroad
  • Optimising supply chain routes
  • Risk management for business continuity
  • Legal and regulatory considerations
  • Business ethics, communications, and negotiations in international trade.
  • The speaker lineup includes; Barry Cullen - head of sales at Silver Hill Duck, Jason Kidd - founder of outcast brands, Simon McKeever - CEO of The Irish Exporters Association and Wendy Hederman - partner and food, agriculture and beverage lead at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP

    For more information visit: shelflife.ie/irish-food-trade-connect-forum-tickets-available-now

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