Cyngor Gwynedd and Larder Cymru will launch a new campaign to encourage more local food producers to join the supply chain for Welsh schools, homes for the elderly and leisure centres.
The aim is to strengthen the links between Gwynedd and Wales-wide producers and Welsh wholesalers, ensuring a fair price and a secure market for their products.
The Welsh Government-funded initiative will reportedly offer new opportunities for vegetable growers, farmers, processors and supply companies from across Wales to supply produce to schools, care homes and leisure centres in Gwynedd. By participating, local businesses will “benefit from a guaranteed market while supporting the health and well-being of the country’s residents”.
Gwynedd Council has already invested in Welsh produce, and this campaign builds on that success. The initiative also offers businesses one-to-one support and advice from local procurement and food experts, as well as access to local networks and events to share best practice.
Through this support, businesses can get an understanding of the requirements of the supply chain, develop their capacity, and take advantage of new economic opportunities.
Supporting local business
The campaign will look to reduce food miles and carbon footprint by using local producers, as well as promote healthy eating among school children. It will also aim to support local business to strengthen the economy, create sustainable jobs and ensure that money is spent within the communities of Gwynedd and Wales.
Gethin Dwyfor, founder of Oren, a fruit and vegetable supplier from Gwynedd, said: “We’ve been supplying fresh produce to local people and businesses for many years, and it’s great to see an opportunity for more Welsh producers to become part of the supply chain for Gwynedd schools. It’s essential that we support local businesses and our communities by using the best food available locally.”
“This initiative is an important step towards a more sustainable system.”
In welcoming the campaign, Councillor Llio Elenid Owen, Cyngor Gwynedd Cabinet Member responsible for Procurement Services, said: “It is essential that we make every effort to support our local food producers, creating new economic opportunities and ensuring that our pupils receive nutritious and high-quality food. This initiative is an important step towards a more sustainable system.”
One local business that already supplies Gwynedd schools is Sam Hollick, owner of the Llysiau Menai company. He said: “I’m passionate about producing food in more sustainable ways – such as selling locally and planting seasonal vegetables. With climate change posing a growing threat to the food chain, I believe it’s vital that we grow our own produce.
“Over the past year, I’ve been able to grow a wider variety of vegetables for specific customers, and I’ve built connections with other like-minded businesses in North Wales. I’m now exploring ways to supply vegetables to local schools.”
