CURRY ON THE MENU AT INTERNATIONAL FOOD FAIR
(9 July 2003)

Asian and Black food businesses were given the chance to meet trade buyers face to face yesterday, thanks to Business Link for London and Foodwise, who staged a "Meet the Buyer" International Food Fair in Borough Market, near London Bridge. The event was designed to create a global market place where buyers could sample what was on offer, while suppliers could make contacts and network.

"Meet the Buyer" brought together a diverse range of London's food and drink suppliers and split them into regional areas such as The Mediterranean, The Caribbean and Southern Asia.

Shafiul Alom, from Indian ready meal supplier Chutnies comments, "Its always good for the food trade to get new people to sample the Indian experience." Shafiul also says, "The food fair is a great opportunity to network with other suppliers, packagers and distributors." Business Link for London have provided subsidised training for Mr Alom's team, "We've had extra Food Hygiene training from Business Link for London which has taken our supervisors to a higher level of skill."

Vernon Barrett, Head of the Knowledge Centre said, "Ethnic foods account for an increasing share of the UK market for food and drink, rising by 29% between 1996 and 2000. As expenditure on food has increased over the past few years, local manufacturers, caterers and restaurants have moved to more premium products and increased diversification of menus to appeal to a more adventurous palate."

The Knowledge Centre on Black and Minority Ethnic Businesses aims to assist businesses owned by London's diverse ethnic minority community by improving awareness and access to business support available to BME businesses through Business Link for London and the London Business Support Network. More information can be found online at the Knowledge Centre website.