The Food Starter Programme is designed for early-stage producers wanting to upskill.

The Programme is targeted at either pre-start up or those within the first 24 months of trading. The programme is held over 4 evenings. The maximum capacity is 15 participants. Programme content is targeted at food and drink producers and is a precursor and a prerequisite for the Supervalu Food Academy programme.

COURSE CONTENT:
The content for this programme includes:

• Successful Small Business Stories, Videos and Case Studies
• Outline of Business Feasibility Study
• Consumer and Market Research
• Market Trends and Drivers, Consumer and Trade Customer Profiles
• Primary Market Research
• Measuring Market Gaps
• The Importance of Food Safety and Legislation
• Packaging
• Considerations for Developing your Product for Launch
• Selecting the Right Channel/Route to Market
• Costings and Managing Finance
• Case Study – A practical illustration
• State Agency Supports and Sources of Funds
• Meeting the Store Manager/Chef
• Distribution and Logistics
• Identifying Your Unique Selling Points
• Understanding Branding
• Brand and Packaging Review Exercise
• Communicating Your Brand - Marketing and PR
• Next Steps, Supplier Development Programmes and Q&A.

Trainer: Bullseye