North East producers on track to shine

A Newcastle-based rail operator is helping local producers reach new markets.

Lumo is inviting regional food and drink businesses to showcase their products in Westminster during British Food Fortnight in January. 

The initiative, organised in partnership with Food & Drink North East, gives suppliers the chance to gain exposure in the capital and learn insights to grow their businesses.

Several local producers are already confirmed, including Northumberland-based Ad Gefrin whisky and gin, Doddington Dairy, Hummingbird Drinks, Northumberland Coffee and Gateshead’s Davenport’s Chocolates. 

Dr Chris Ferguson, director of experience for Ad Gefrin, said: “The chance to work with Lumo to celebrate the very best of North East food and drink, on the move, and in Westminster is just the start of collectively promoting just what we have to offer as a region of gastronomy.

“This is a really exciting new chapter for our Tácnbora Whisky – literally our standard bearer leading the way in championing our spirits whilst our first Northumbrian English Single Malt matures.

“We are extremely proud of the provenance of our products and those of our North East partners.”

Sharon Hodgson, Labour MP for Washington and Gateshead South, has pledged her support for the event.

She said: “This is a fantastic initiative which I’m sure will prove to be very valuable for our many talented local businesses here in the North East. 

“It’s great to see a successful company like Lumo, who are based in Newcastle, promoting other local businesses. 

“I’m looking forward to being a part of this event and meeting some amazing local people and helping to promote the food and drink industry in our region.”

Rhiannon Bearne, deputy chief executive at the North East Chamber of Commerce, added: “This initiative is a brilliant way to showcase the strength and diversity of our region’s food and drink sector. 

“Taking these fantastic local businesses to Westminster raises their profile and provides a valuable platform to grow, collaborate and reach new audiences.

“It’s fantastic to see Lumo and Food & Drink North East working together to champion local businesses and open up new opportunities.”

Lumo also highlights its support for local suppliers on board its trains, serving products such as Newcastle-brewed Donzoko Train Beer and Ringtons Ginger Snap Biscuits.

The operator, which runs 100 per cent electric services between Edinburgh, Newcastle, London and, from December, Glasgow Queen Street, has been recognised for its community partnerships at the Corporate Engagement Awards and holds the ServiceMark Accreditation for outstanding customer service.

Richard Salkeld, head of communications and partnerships at Lumo, added: “We’re thrilled to launch this unique opportunity during the annual British Food Fortnight. 

“It’s an exciting time for Lumo at the moment, as we prepare to launch a range of new routes across the UK. 

“We’re proud to bring the spirit of the North East to the rest of the UK and, as part of that, we’re always looking for ways that we can support other local businesses.

“I’m looking forward to seeing who we discover as part of this initiative, with the potential for us to find some tasty new onboard products for our customers too!”

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