02 March 2010, 14:13 PM
  • Retailers and producers are looking to participate in the Fine Food Northwest Awards 2010, after a previous winner reported increased sales of 17%

Companies from all areas of the food industry are being called to enter the fifth annual event, set up to boost the Northwest’s economy.

Last year saw over 400 entries, including Glossop-based butchery J W Mettrick & Son Ltd.

The store has experienced a significant sales increase (17%) since winning the ‘fresh meat’ category with its mutton cutlets last year.

“We sell more cutlets in a week than we used to in a month. Accolades like this are particularly useful for getting people interested in less popular ingredients, such as mutton. We also won an award for our pork loins, which has helped customers realise we have something really special to offer,” said John Mettrick, co-owner.

Organisers have expressed equal enthusiasm for the ceremony.

“We were delighted with the response to last year’s awards and, once again,  are looking forward to receiving a high calibre of entries this year,” said Pat Foreman, chief executive of Food Northwest.

The region has one of the largest food and drink industries in the UK, contributing £9.5 billion to the local economy and employing over 450,000 people.

“These awards are a valuable opportunity to showcase the innovative work that is being carried out by food and drink companies in the Northwest. They continue to make a vital contribution to the ongoing growth of this key sector,” said Steven Broomhead, chief executive of the Northwest Regional Development Agency.

Companies can enter the awards at www.foodnw.co.uk.

Applications close on 30th April and winners will be announced on 24th June.