Speciality products the way for young farmers
Speciality products the way for young farmers
YOUNG farmers should consider starting businesses producing speciality products for niche catering outlets.
Top chef Franco Taruschio urged YFC members to enter such schemes for the 1998 Wales YFC Rural Enterprise Award when it was launched at his Walnut Tree Restaurant, near Abergavenny. He was supported by Clem Arricale of the Trust Meat Co, which supplies many top London restaurants and hotels.
Both claimed the growth in eating out provided tremendous opportunities, but warned that only professionalism would open doors.
Having served suckling pig at the launch, Franco described how difficult it was to source supplies locally. Very high quality rabbits and pigeon squabs were among many other products he would pay a premium to get if someone in Wales could supply them.
"My customers like to eat Welsh products and I want to cook them," he insisted. "But we often have to use imports because nobody can offer the right quality or continuity. I hope some young farmer will come knocking on my door to sell me something produced as a result of this award scheme."
John Davies, Wales YFC chairman, acknowledged that new catering markets were appearing daily, and claimed it was crucial that young farmers exploited the opportunities presented.
"It is vital that they use their expertise to produce a diverse range of products for these developing markets," said Mr Davies.
Despite the current crisis, enthusiastic individuals should listen to consumers and try to take advantage of all the openings changing markets gave farm-based businesses.
But the award scheme is not aimed just at food production. It offers a top prize of £1500, plus favourable banking and leasing terms, to the YFC member who submits the most promising business plan. Last years winner, Mark Jones from Talgarth, who used his cash to develop his existing equipment hire business, said the package had been just the boost it needed.
* Funded by EU
Funded by the EU, the two Welsh development agencies, NatWest Bank and the leasing company FAF, the award scheme will this year offer second and third prizes of £750 and £500. The next 30 top entries will get £100 each.
Both large and small enterprises are eligible. Specific emphasis will be given to off-farm businesses and employment, new on-farm technical ideas, businesses that help preserve and profit from the local environment, farm tourism and group buying of farm requisites.
A message from Welsh Secretary Ron Davies welcomed the harnessing and development of YFC members ideas. He complimented Wales YFC and the schemes backers for giving them the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial skills, and secure additional sources of income.
Robert Davies
Chef Franco Taruschio with advice for Wales YFC chairman John Davies over roast suckling pig at his Walnut Tree Restaurant, near Abergavenny.