Industry tasting worldwide success - DEFA

The value of the Isle of Man's food and drink industry to the Manx economy is estimated to be worth £79, accounting for around 1400 jobs.

That from the government's Food Business Development Manager Andrew Lees, who is charged with increasing its value to £125 million over the next decade, as part of the Food Matters strategy.

Mr Lees outlined the sector's current fortunes at the Institute of Directors' April business breakfast at the Sefton Hotel in Douglas.

He said the future offered huge potential for growth, diversification and exports worldwide, citing exports of produce such as fresh Manx seafood as an example of success.

DEFA also reached out to budding entrepreneurs last week, with an event run in conjunction with Shoprite on 15 April.

The event enabled up-and-coming food and drink producers to meet with industry leaders, to gain advice on management, marketing and development.