FFB to hand over show responsibilities

Food from Britain has given its enthusiastic support to UK Trade and Investment's recent decision to hand over responsibility for Britain's presence at international trade shows to experienced show organisers when FFB closes in its current form in March.

The decision safeguards the future of the British pavilion at important shows such as Anuga, which, under FFB's management, has become a focal point for international buyers seeking innovation and excellence.

UK Trade and Investment has appointed new Accredited Trade Organisations (ATOs) to manage the groups at shows previously handled by FFB. These are the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, PS8, Montgomery International and William Reed Business Management. Ten of the trade shows organised by FFB will be covered by the new ATOs, as well as shows for the ingredients and brewing sectors.

UKTI TAP funding will remain in place, offering eligible SMEs up to six grants to exhibit at accredited international trade shows from 1 April, 2009, under new rules announced by UKTI Trade and Investment recently.

Commenting on the announcement, John Adams, CEO at Food from Britain, said: "We want to reassure producers that British Pavilions at many of the world's leading trade shows will continue after FFB's closure in March next year and that funding will still be available to assist new, small exporters. It's satisfying to see that a forum which offers so much value and such great returns, will still be available to help British companies build their international business."

Adams continued: "We have spent many years working to create a strong national group that has been such an attraction for buyers looking to source new, innovative and unique products abroad, and feel that we have successfully accomplished that mission. It is good to know that the British pavilion will continue to thrive under the guidance of the various ATOs at international food and drink trade shows across the globe."

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