Putting potatoes back on the plates of consumers is to be the key objective of a local promotional campaign. Consumption of potatoes has been declining in recent years as the consumer opts for alternatives such as rice and pasta. Potato industry representatives with support from the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) and Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) are working together to develop and implement a high profile campaign to stimulate demand for potatoes and highlight their health benefits, convenience and versatility.
A Campaign Co-ordinator, Ian Duff, has recently been appointed to help develop and implement this promotional strategy. Ian has a great deal of experience across the agricultural industry and the potato sector in particular. He is well known and respected throughout industry and has been involved in producing the review and strategic priorities for the development of both the arable and horticulture sectors in Northern Ireland. Ian will meet with growers, packers and processors over the next few months to explain the promotional campaign and discuss voluntary contributions.
Commenting on the appointment UFU Deputy President Ivor Ferguson said: “We are delighted to have Ian on board. I am well aware of the high esteem within which Ian is held by the agricultural industry. I know he is very well placed to drive forward this potato industry lead initiative. I am pleased the industry is working together to undertake its own promotional campaign and I would urge businesses to fully support the proposed voluntary contribution.”
The potato industry group aim to move ahead with this promotional initiative as quickly as possible. Ian will present the plan for the promotional campaign at the Potatoes 2014 event to be held at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) on Wednesday 3rd December 2014.
