Food and drink sector 'thriving' despite challenges

A leading figure in a county's food and drink industry has said the sector is "thriving" despite rising costs and financial pressures.

Rachel Mallows, director of the Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards, highlighted how increased food and energy prices, along with the anticipated rise in National Insurance, are testing the industry's resilience.

The awards event, now its 17th year, will celebrate chefs, cafes, pubs, restaurants and local produce across a variety of categories at the annual awards ceremony in October.

Speaking at the launch of the awards at Northampton College, Ms Mallows said: "The food and drink sector is thriving and everyone is doing their best under difficult circumstances."

The awards, set to take place in October, celebrate chefs, cafes, pubs, restaurants, and local produce across multiple categories.

Last year's winners were recognised for achievements in areas such as artisan drinks, vegetarian and vegan products, gastro pubs, and world cuisine.

Chloe Smith, from the Althorp Coaching Inn, which won Gold in the Gastropub of the Year category, acknowledged the pressures on businesses.

"The pub is doing well but with margin restraints, living wage going up, National Insurance going up, it has put a harden on us and it's just one of those round robins," she said.

Ms Smith also explained how rising supplier costs mean pubs and restaurants often face the most direct impact: "Everything has gone up with [our suppliers] and as a pub, we bear the brunt of it because we're the face of it. So we have had to make changes in the pub but nothing that [the public] would notice", she added.

Despite the challenges, Ms Mallows remains optimistic about the sector's future.

"There will be a deeper understanding of sustainability and a more refined audience who understand food waste and food miles, so I have huge optimism for the future," she said.

The Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards will take place at the Royal and Derngate theatre in Northampton on 16 October.

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