After a successful launch in July 2022, Made in Gloucestershire is launching a new affiliate scheme for businesses that support the county's food, drink and hospitality sector.
The scheme allows any organisation that supports or is connected to the food and drink industry in Gloucestershire that isn't a producer itself, to join and help champion the county's incredible food and drink producers and hospitality venues - such as catering equipment suppliers; festival organisers; media agencies specialising in hospitality; and food photographers.
Affiliates receive a directory listing on the Made in Gloucestershire website and can display an official badge on their website and social media - and even share news and special offers with Made in Gloucestershire members.
They're also encouraged to support the initiative by asking staff and customers to shop locally and use the producers listed on the Made in Gloucestershire directory.
Deputy chief executive of GFirst LEP - the powerful business group behind the initiative - Dev Chakraborty, said: 'Since launching in July, we have had many enquiries from businesses looking to support the Made in Gloucestershire initiative.
'Our fantastic food and drink producers can't do it alone. They are supported by a network of businesses that champion our local makers and provide services to the food, drink and hospitality sector here in Gloucestershire.
'Through Made in Gloucestershire, we want to drive local procurement and local trading, so every business can thrive through working together. That’s why we have launched our affiliate scheme so businesses can show their support for local producers, develop new partnerships and supply chains, and amplify our message of buying and loving local.
'There is no set criteria for affiliates but they should be as passionate about Gloucestershire’s produce as we are and support the industry through their work.'
The affiliate scheme is already proving popular with businesses, with the likes of Gloucestershire College, Cheltenham Food and Drink Festival, The Folk of Gloucester and Too Good To Go having already signed up.
Head of marketing at Gloucestershire College, Shelly McCatty, said: 'Gloucestershire College is delighted to support Made in Gloucestershire as an affiliate. Championing our local food and drink producers is important as we know they make up a large proportion of our county’s employers - creating jobs and opportunities, especially for young people, within the hospitality industry.
'At Gloucestershire College, we are training the next generation of talent through our apprenticeships and professional courses. Out of commercial restaurants at our Cheltenham and Forest of Dean campuses, we offer courses in catering and hospitality, patisserie and confectionery, professional cookery and hospitality supervision.
'We’re passionate about supporting the local food and drink industry and work with county producers, suppliers and employers to inspire our learners in their career, sustainability and consumer choices. Made in Gloucestershire aligns with our values of supporting local and we’d encourage other businesses in the county to get behind this new initiative to help our food and drink sector thrive.'
For more information, or to sign up to the affiliate scheme, visit madeingloucestershire.com.
