EXPLORING ESSEX PRODUCTS “ALL THINGS LOCAL” EVENT

Buyers and business owners from the hospitality sector and independents had an opportunity to sample some extraordinary Essex products at Tiptree’s first “All things Local” event in June.  We were delighted that the Mayor of Colchester Cllr Tim Young and the Mayoress Nicola Goodchild could join us.  A useful networking opportunity as people met future suppliers and some were reunited face to face with long lost contacts.

 

 

“The Tiptree farm was the perfect setting to bring together likeminded independent food and drink businesses of East Anglia. It was a great chance to demonstrate the exceptional produce that Essex has to offer. We were pleased to welcome guests from the full spectrum of the food industry; from wholesalers such as Thomas Ridley, to luxury hotels such as Greyfriars, all the way to idyllic village pubs such as Ye Old Albion or the Hoop. United by their love of supporting All Things Local.

 

 

The Colchester Institute Chefs’ Kitchen inspired guests to imagine new ways to innovate, by changing the presentation of their dishes, incorporating a seasonal ingredient, or tapping into some of the latest gastronomical trends. A particular favourite was the use of Tiptree English Vodka to make their fish and chips that little bit crispier.”

 

 

Tasting jam and gin is a vital task at any professional food event while many also enjoyed barbecued food from The Rare Breed Company.  Forward planning is essential for retailers and caterers so many visitors were keen to talk about festive times with Kelly Bronze Turkeys and Cole’s Puddings.  The team from local millers, Marriages, explained the benefits of using the right flour for different breads and pizzas. As a break from the business, visitors enjoyed a guided tour of the strawberry fields in Lodge’s vintage buses; perfect timing as it is the height of the strawberry season, so the pickers were busy.

Photos by Gemma Lightly