Food Academy Start Programme 2015: Call To Action For Applications
- The Local Enterprise Offices in Cork are now accepting applications for the Food Academy Start Programme which is due to begin on the 19th of September 2015.
- To recieve an application form please provide an Expression Of Interest Online.
- All applications must be submitted before 5pm on Tuesday the 15th of September.
The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), Bord Bia and SuperValu understand the importance of supporting artisan food producers within communities throughout Ireland. Across SuperValu’s network of 223 stores, a large range of locally produced Irish products are stocked. The LEO’s, Bord Bia and SuperValu actively assist the business development of artisan food producers. In 2013, SuperValu, Bord Bia and the LEOs formed a partnership and created the “Food Academy Start” Programme.
The Food Academy Start programme works with and nurtures artisan food producers through their journey to obtaining their first retail listing with SuperValu. 'Food Academy' is currently working with over 200 producers throughout the country. In addition, the LEOs can assist food producers to develop their business with capital, salary and marketing investment and Bord Bia can provide marketing grants, market information and export opportunities. Programme Format: The programme consists of intensive training, workshops and mentoring given by experienced food marketing consultants.
As part of the programme, there is an opportunity for producers to pitch their products to local SuperValu representatives, obtain their feedback and secure a three month trial in a local SuperValu store. The intensive workshops will provide companies with business support and knowledge including consumer insight, technical advice, resource planning, commercial advice and marketing development.
The programme has a core commercial focus and all participants will have the opportunity to pitch their product or idea to a local SuperValu representative, with a view to securing an initial local listing. Contracted Trainers for this programme: James Burke & Associates 1. James Burke is a former Superquinn board member 2. Yvonne Scully is a former investment banker and food producer 3. Maria O’Connor is a former SuperValu owner and retail and foodservice senior buyer with both SuperValu and Musgraves.
Each participant will be able to avail of up to 4 hours of mentoring over the course of the programme to address specific issues one-to-one. If you are selected for trial then further mentoring can be provided to help you get ready.
Programme Overview:
Day 1
1. Understanding Consumers
2. Market Background
3. Research & Data
4. Marketing Strategy & Segmentation
Day 2
1. Introduction to Finance
2. Pricing
3. New Product Development
4. Food Safety & Food Labeling
5. Packaging
6. Managing Human Resources
Days 3 & 4
1. Routes to Market
2. Buyer Meetings
3. Promoting with Confidence
4. Marketing Plans
5. Branding and Packaging Designs
6. Public Relations
Please note that the right to refuse an application is reserved based on a client’s suitability and readiness for the programme.
If you have any problems or queries with regard to submission of expression of interest please contact the South Cork LEO Tel: 021-4975281
