The Great Cornish Food Store, in collaboration with Cornwall Trade and Investment hosted an inspiring export event, bringing together the incredible diversity of Cornwall’s food and drink producers with the aim of encouraging and equipping them to export their unique products around the world. Perfectly timed to lead up to International Trade Week (11-15 November), the event provided a valuable platform for local businesses to connect with Department for Business and Trade (DBT), international trade advisors and regional trade support from Cornwall Trade and Investment – gaining insights into the potential for Cornwall’s rich culinary offerings to excel globally.
Attendees were welcomed by Ruth Huxley, whose dedication to Cornwall’s food industry and expert event organisation made the session a memorable and impactful gathering. As a DBT GREAT Export Champion and a voice in the sector, Jonathon Jones OBE, MD of Trading at Tregothnan, emphasised the importance of export growth for Cornwall.
“Cornwall’s food and drink products are known for their high quality and distinctiveness,” said Jones. “When Cornish producers succeed internationally, it’s a win not just for Cornwall but for the entire UK and the GREAT campaign. This event has shown that Cornwall is ready and excited to take its place on the world stage.”
Throughout the session, local producers engaged in networking and discussions with DBT advisors, who provided essential guidance and resources for launching or expanding into export markets. These conversations underscored the growing global demand for Cornwall’s innovative and artisanal products, from award-winning cheeses and spirits to teas, confectionery and fresh produce. Cornwall is already the world’s largest exporter of cauliflowers, and exports from the region’s food and drink producers have enormous potential to grow.
Kelly Trelease, of Cornwall Trade and Investment commented: “Cornwall’s food and drink industry has a global reputation for excellence, and events like this ensure that regional businesses are able to gain the confidence and knowledge they need to move into new markets. Thirteen businesses with ambitious plans to export to Europe, the USA and beyond left equipped with the insights and connections needed to take their brands into new markets and help make Cornwall an internationally recognised food hub.”
With International Trade Week upon us, the Great Cornish Food Store’s export event highlighted the vital role Cornwall’s food and drink industry can play in strengthening the UK’s trade presence overseas. The event underscored the opportunity for Cornwall’s entrepreneurs to expand globally, paving the way for new growth, collaboration, and success beyond borders.
Find out more about The Great Cornish Food Store HERE and follow on Facebook and Instagram.
