Shoprite, the Island’s largest retailer, will be the main supporter of this year’s Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is pleased to announce.

The festival – the sixth – takes place in the Villa Marina Gardens on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th September.

The Manx food retailer will have a stand the Exhibitors’ Marquee as well a presentation slot in the Manx Food Theatre.

Andrew Thomas, Chief Executive of Shoprite, said: ‘Local food production is hugely important as it can make a significant contribution to the local economy. As a local food retailer that has been active on the Isle of Man for over 40 years, we understand the potential and quality that exists among local food producers.

‘We are delighted to be the main supporter of this event, showcasing all that is good about Isle of Man food and drink.’

The festival will be run in association with Manx Radio, which will broadcast live from the event and will run competitions to win weekend admission tickets.

Emma Dickenson, Commercial Media Executive at Manx Radio, said: ‘The festival is a fantastic event – there is always such a great atmosphere and turnout and we’re excited to be involved.’

The Deacan Partnership Ltd, an Isle of Man-based sales and retail consultancy firm, will be the silver sponsor of the Festival.

Matthew Dealtry, Managing Director, said: ‘The Isle of Man is fortunate to have such a wide variety of high quality local food and drink, which can certainly compete on an international level. With our experience of working on global food and drink brands, that is something we believe is worth supporting and celebrating.’

Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘I am pleased the festival has the support of Shoprite, Manx Radio and The Deacan Partnership Ltd.

‘The Isle of Man Government is committed to growing the food and drink industry by ?50 million over the next decade.

‘The festival last year attracted 5,600 visitors who spent ?110,000 at the event alone, not to mention the valuable knock-on boost to the businesses that took part.

‘Getting involved in this flagship event is a wonderful opportunity to contribute to a culture where local food and drink is regarded as an integral part of the Island’s economy and national identity.’

Sponsorship packages for the festival are still available. Contact Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer at DEFA, via Audrey.fowler@gov.im / 01624 685856 for details.

Tickets for the festival are on sale at the Manx Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal and from the Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre – www.villagaiety.com or 01624 600555.

For more information about the festival, visit www.gov.im/food, like Isle of Man Food and Drink on facebook or follow @iomfoodanddrink on Twitter.

Photo -  Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, thanking Andrew Thomas, Chief Executive of Shoprite, for its sponsorship.