The Chartered Institute of Marketing is hosting a programme of food and drink events across the South West for spring 2009.

The initial event, a food and drink question time at Duchy College, Stoke Climsland, Callington, Cornwall, will take place on January 20. The question and answer session will give businesses the opportunity to seek advice from a panel of experienced South West food industry experts, ranging from LloydsTSB Agriculture and the Guild of Fine Food to Michael Horrell from South West Food and Drink and Michael Seymour, regional buyer for Tesco.

The event will explore several issues, including how the numbers of food and drink producers in the South West are increasing and why these producers are important to the region’s tourist economy.

On April 2, the Food and Drink Regional Conference will take place at Duchy College, Stoke Climsland, Callington.

And businesses can learn the key to success from Guy Watson, founder of Riverford Organic Vegetables, at an event scheduled for June 16 in Buckfastleigh, Devon. Watson will speak on how his company has grown into a multi-million pound success story through effective marketing strategies and a strong determination to change the food industry. Early booking is advisable as visitor numbers are limited to 60.

Mike Weed, chairman of The Chartered Institute of Marketing Devon and Cornwall branch, said: “We have put together a series of what we hope will be very informative events. Our spring 2009 programme is particularly targeted at marketing professionals and small businesses in the food and drink sector. We hope these events will provide an excellent opportunity for business owners and managers to make vital connections.”

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