Primary producers are working to diversify products and crack new markets though ongoing workshops with Dubbo Regional Council.
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Dubbo Regional Council has developed the 2018 Regional Platters program to help primary producers develop produce to plate initiatives. During the program, participants come together once a month for intensive, facilitated workshops to develop a plan for their business, said council’s manager economic development and marketing Josie Howard.
“The producers come from across the Orana region and have a variety of products that are sourced directly from their own properties,” Ms Howard said.
“Many of these producers feature award winning produce, the quality of the product is first class. The aim of Regional Platters is to help the business owners penetrate markets, diversify products and build their own industry network to grow the industry as a whole.
“By developing business plans and the network, the participants can position their business for tourism and leisure markets through tour groups, capitalising on produce to plate initiatives and collaboratively working together to address some of the business, marketing and logistical issues faced by the industry across the region.”
At the end of the series participants will have the opportunity to pitch their business idea for a share of $25,000 towards their next project.
The aim of Regional Platters is to help the business owners penetrate markets, diversify products and build their own industry network...
- Josie Howard
“The intent behind the Regional Platters guide is to link wholesalers, re-sellers and customers with the business so they have the opportunity to sell more product and reach more people,” Ms Howard said.
The program is created in collaboration with other councils across the region – Mid-Western, Narromine, Gilgandra, Warrumbungles and Warren – as well as in partnership with Business DNA.
“High quality produce with provenance is in demand with consumers. Being able to develop this sector in the Orana Region helps those businesses directly as well as other related businesses such as agri-tourism operators, unique accommodation providers and regional businesses,” Ms Howard said.