NI Red Meat Takes Centre Stage

Northern Ireland beef and lamb will be showcased on the world stage during the Anuga International Food Show in Cologne next week.

Hosted by The Livestock & Meat Commission (LMC), four of Northern Ireland's major processors, ABP, Dunbia, the Foyle Group and Linden Foods will use the opportunity to promote Northern Ireland beef and lamb to an international market.

David Rutledge, Chief Executive, LMC explained the importance of the event: "Anuga is the leading international fair for the food and beverage industry with over 6,800 exhibitors from 95 countries world-wide.

"The importance of this event cannot be over-estimated and it is imperative that Northern Ireland has a strong presence and is seen to compete at the same level as the rest of the world.

"In line with our on-going strategy of building and supporting our industry in its development of beef and sheepmeat exports, LMC has been at the forefront of realising this opportunity for our leading meat plants by co-ordinating the Northern Ireland stand at the show," he said.

During the show, which runs from 10th – 14th October, representatives from the NI Red Meat processors will have the opportunity to develop relationships with both existing and new customers and open up new markets for Northern Ireland.

The best of Northern Ireland's beef and lamb will be served up during the show giving visitors an opportunity to sample what Northern Ireland has to offer.

Mr Rutledge added: "We have had great success at shows like Anuga over the last few years as we have been able to reach an extensive international audience and our industry has secured commercial contracts.

"This year, with the added advantage of very favourable exchange rates, we should prove to be just as successful as we showcase our industry.

"With our high standards of traceability and assurance, our production and processing skills and our reputation for producing a high quality and competitive product, Northern Ireland is well equipped to meet the needs of the international marketplace," he concluded.

(BMcC/GK)