Visit Northumberland hosted the second in its quarterly series of visitor economy Industry Roundtable discussions, with the priorities of Northumberland's food and drink sector firmly on the menu.
The hand-picked guestlist gathered at the Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Whisky Distillery in the heart of Northumberland to discuss current challenges being faced by the industry and to identify areas of focus to collaborate on together.
Key actions and outcomes from the interactive session include:
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identify and learn from the success of best practice examples of destinations building their food tourism identity.
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explore the marketing and product development opportunities around the community.
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create a 'thread' across the county for all the local markets.
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showcase positive career stories and foster the regeneration of communities to support recruitment.
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develop ideas to utilise food and drink messaging to extend the season.
With 48.2% - equivalent to £425million - of all visitor economy revenue generated in 2023, the food and drink sector is the biggest contributor to direct economic impact and the biggest employment sector with 4,895 roles correlating to 41.8% of all direct employment.
The selection of partners and representatives from Northumberland's production, supply chain and quality dining establishments heard from Food and Drink North East and the work they are doing regionally to connect and grow the logistical aspects and discuss the work they have been doing to connect the region and grow the development of the Food and Drink industry.
The roundtable also provided an opportunity for Visit Northumberland to:
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share insight into the development of a new Food and Drink strategy to help develop the industry across Northumberland.
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provide an overview of potential new initiatives and opportunities shaping the development and contribution to regenerative tourism in Northumberland.
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continue to showcase the strategic and forward-thinking approach of delivery of the Visit Northumberland LVEP.
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network with peers and help shape strategic development of the sector.
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provide an opportunity for those attending to become involved in the development and delivery of the Northumberland Destination Management Plan
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understand Visit Northumberland’s position and responsibility within the industry and how we can facilitate and support the development of the sector moving forward.
The Industry Roundtable is an exclusive benefit tailored at partners seeking to assist Visit Northumberland's strategic and destination management objectives and follows the Accommodation Roundtable held at Matfen Hall Country Hotel and Spa earlier in the summer. Upcoming sessions will focus on Regenerative Tourism, Skills and Visitor Attractions to be held throughout 2025.
