STORY: A TASTE OF NORTHERN IRELAND

Discovering Northern Ireland's Finest

Sam White's Highlights from the Invest NI Food and Drink Showcase

I recently had the privilege of being invited by Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) to attend the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Showcase in Bangor. While the primary aim of the trip was to witness the thriving food and drink sector in Northern Ireland, it became an immersive experience that went well beyond a typical showcase. From baking traditional Irish goods at Waterman’s Cookery School in Belfast to touring one of the world’s largest independent whiskey distilleries, I was treated to Northern Ireland’s renowned hospitality, culinary innovation, and vibrant culture.

The Northern Ireland Food and Drink Showcase started as a modest initiative several years ago, aiming to introduce local producers to potential buyers. Today, it has evolved into a significant event with over 100 Northern Irish suppliers meeting with a matching number of local and international buyers. The gathering has become a powerful platform for showcasing Northern Ireland’s food and drink landscape, which has seen exponential growth over the last decade. The showcase has been instrumental in connecting Northern Irish producers to global markets, and it offers an exciting opportunity for producers and suppliers to demonstrate their capabilities and align with global trends.

Northern Ireland’s Flourishing Food and Drink Sector

Northern Ireland’s food and drink industry has undergone remarkable growth in recent years, driven by a deep-rooted passion for quality and a dedication to innovation. The industry is diverse, with strong performance across sectors such as dairy, meat, bakery, and drinks. Invest NI, Northern Ireland’s main economic development agency, plays a vital role in fostering this growth, providing financial support, training, and other resources to help businesses succeed in both local and export markets. With its expansive reach, Invest NI works with over 3,000 businesses, offering them support through investments in equipment, skills training, sustainability initiatives, and market expansion opportunities.

Northern Ireland is especially adept at keeping pace with global food trends. Vegan and "Free From" products, for instance, are gaining popularity worldwide, and Northern Irish producers have been quick to adapt. This innovation was on full display in the bakery hub at the showcase, where 20 Northern Irish bakery companies demonstrated a clear understanding of market demand and a commitment to meeting diverse dietary needs. Their products blended tradition with modernity, catering to consumers who value both authenticity and inclusivity in their food choices.

A Deep Love for Bakery and Tradition

It became clear that baking holds a special place in the hearts of Northern Irish people. The bakery sector is steeped in tradition, and it plays a significant role in Northern Ireland’s cultural and economic landscape. Staples like Soda Bread, Brackbarm, and the iconic Fifteens have stood the test of time, providing a taste of tradition that locals cherish, and visitors quickly come to love. These goods are not just food items, but symbols of Northern Irish heritage, embodying techniques and flavours passed down through generations.

The bakery sector also holds substantial economic importance, ranking as the fourth-largest food category in Northern Ireland, just after meat, dairy, and drinks. This importance is underscored by the role of exports, especially to Great Britain, which is the largest market outside Northern Ireland. Due to the short shelf life of many baked goods, international markets can be challenging to access, making the UK market a critical outlet for Northern Irish producers. Northern Ireland’s unique trading position within the UK and Ireland further strengthens its ability to serve both local and neighbouring markets, creating a demand for traditional Irish baked goods across the UK.

Innovation in Traditional Products

Northern Ireland’s bakery sector exemplifies how tradition and innovation can go hand in hand. New Product Development (NPD) around traditional Irish baked goods has been a major focus in recent years, driven by consumer demand and supported by Invest NI. To meet these demands, producers are constantly experimenting with formulation adjustments to extend shelf life, inventive twists on classic products, and sustainable packaging and production methods. Innovation is essential for staying competitive and Invest NI’s role in supporting NPD has been instrumental. By providing grants, training programs, and other resources, Invest NI encourages local producers to push the boundaries of tradition while remaining authentic to their roots.

As much as the bakery sector thrives on its traditional roots, it also faces a range of challenges. Rising costs for essentials like fuel, feed, and fertiliser have created economic pressures that affect both producers and consumers. Additionally, the bakery sector operates with tight margins, which limits the financial flexibility of producers. Invest NI acknowledges these challenges and works actively with producers to identify ways to improve productivity and efficiency. By investing in skills training and equipment, Invest NI helps Northern Irish businesses enhance their competitiveness in a challenging market.

A Unique Advantage: Flexibility and Passion

One of the standout qualities of Northern Ireland’s food and drink producers is their ability to adapt quickly and pivot according to market needs. This flexibility stems in part from the size of the industry, which, while smaller compared to other regions, allows for a high level of responsiveness. Northern Irish businesses are particularly skilled at building strong relationships with their customers, working closely with buyers to understand their needs and adapt their offerings accordingly. This adaptability and customer-focused approach have given Northern Irish producers a distinct advantage in the marketplace, setting them apart from their larger counterparts in Great Britain.

This agility also means that Northern Irish businesses are well-equipped to handle shifts in consumer behaviour. With Invest NI’s support, producers can make the necessary adjustments to remain competitive while staying true to their values and traditions. The passion for food and drink in Northern Ireland is unmistakable, and it is a major driving force behind the success of local businesses.

Invest NI’s Role in Supporting Growth and Innovation

As the primary economic development agency in Northern Ireland, Invest NI has been pivotal in advancing the region’s food and drink sector. Operating as a non-departmental public body, Invest NI works tirelessly to support Northern Irish businesses, offering a range of financial and non-financial assistance to help them grow. From grant support to training academies, Invest NI’s resources are designed to equip businesses with the tools they need to thrive.

Invest NI’s role goes beyond financial support; the agency invests heavily in skill development and sustainability initiatives. Training academies have been a particularly effective tool, allowing producers to learn new techniques and improve their operations. Additionally, Invest NI emphasizes sustainability, encouraging businesses to adopt energy-efficient practices and reduce waste. By fostering an environment of continuous improvement, Invest NI ensures that Northern Ireland’s food and drink sector remains dynamic and competitive.

A Memorable Experience and Lasting Impression

My whirlwind tour of Northern Ireland left a lasting impression. Beyond the food showcase itself, the entire experience—learning to bake traditional Irish goods, touring distilleries, sampling exceptional food, and experiencing Belfast’s nightlife—provided a glimpse into the warmth, creativity, and resilience that define Northern Ireland’s food and drink culture. This showcase wasn’t just a display of products, it was a testament to the heart and soul that Northern Irish producers pour into their work.

As I reflect on the experience, I am eager to return and witness how Northern Ireland’s food and drink industry will continue to evolve. Invest NI and the local producers have built a foundation that celebrates tradition while embracing innovation, setting a promising path for the future. Northern Ireland’s food and drink sector is truly on the rise, and the world is beginning to take notice.