This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Minister visits successful organic food producers
25/08/2005
A clear focus on market demand is key to building a
successful food business, Rhona Brankin Said today.
The Deputy Environment and Rural Development Minister
was visiting Damhead Organic Foods in Mid Lothian. The
company markets locally grown organic produce and is one of
Scotland's largest independent organic distributors.
With Scottish Executive support of £68,250 the company
has achieved a growth in turnover of 37% to over £1
million, installed and implemented management systems and
established key personnel to further develop the
business.
Rhona Brankin said:
"The Scottish Executive understands the role which
organic farming contributes to Scottish Agriculture. For
this reason organic producers and processors have been
prioritised in the receipt of SEERAD's marketing and
processing grant schemes.
"We have also funded an Organic Market Link Co-ordinator
who provides advice and assistance to producers, and we
have increased our spend on advisory activities on organic
farming to over £200,000 in 2004/05.
"Damhead Organic Foods demonstrate how crucial the
funding is, and the extent to which it can be utilised.
They have embraced change and identified niche markets to
make the most of the quality organic produce available in
their local area."