Top exporters set to shine

Stars of the food and drink export industry are once again being given the chance to shine by entering the Food from Britain (FFB) Export Awards 2007, in association with The Grocer.

Food and drink companies from across the UK are invited to enter the awards, which celebrate companies that have grown their business through export. The award winners will be announced at a ceremony on 19th December at the Landmark Hotel, London, where the winners of the eleven categories will go forward to compete for the coveted title of Food and Drink Exporter of the Year.

“This year’s awards will be a real celebration of the best of British,” said Simon Waring, International Management Director at FFB. “It’s a tremendously exciting time for British food and drink exporters, with record export figures for the industry announced in April this year. We’d like to encourage all companies that have played a part in achieving these impressive figures to enter the awards and reap their deserved rewards.”

Alongside the presentation of the Awards, Food from Britain will be running its annual Network Forum. This unique event provides a perfect platform for producers to meet FFB’s team responsible for Europe, Middle East, Asia Pacific and North America that have expert knowledge of the local markets.

FFB's International Directors will update attendees on what's happening in these key markets, and help producers to explore the export opportunities.  With over 300 food and drink representatives expected to attend the event, it is also a great chance to make new contacts and exchange experiences. 

Delegates will also have the chance to hear from the International Retailer of the Year for 2007, providing them with valuable insight into how one of the world’s leading retailers operates and highlighting the opportunities available to British producers.

Categories in the Food from Britain Export Awards 2007 are:

• Food and Drink Exporter of the Year
• Food Exporter of the Year
• Drink Exporter of the Year
• New Exporter of the Year
• Private Label Exporter of the Year
• Export Inspiration Award
• Innovation in Export Award
• Best Exhibitor at an international show
• Scottish Exporter of the Year
• Welsh Exporter of the Year
• Northern Ireland "Fit for Market" Exporter of the Year
• EU Protected Food Name Exporter of the Year
• International Retailer of the Year

To enter the awards, visit the FFB Export Awards section of the site.  Deadline for entries - 7 September 2007

-ENDS-

Notes to editors:
Food from Britain (FFB), the market development consultancy, helps some 900 British food and drink companies each year to build their international business.  For further information visit: www.foodfrombritain.com.

16 July 2007