Liverpool Food Network is the city’s first dedicated network for food suppliers and independent hospitality businesses across the region.
Founder Louise Kissack has previously spent over a decade travelling the world working for global brands including McDonald’s and Costa Coffee. Having worked in France, Russia, Mexico and Vietnam Louise now sees the greatest potential in her home city of Liverpool and wants local businesses to benefit from the knowledge and network she’s built along the way.
“Over the last 3 years I’ve helped and advised dozens of independents looking to connect, develop and elevate their brands. I’ve personally connected over 100 local businesses to suppliers, consultants and advisors resulting in growth – and in some cases even investment. Now I want every food-led business in our city to have access to this kind of support.”
When asked how the idea for the network came about, Louise said that she saw a need for more focussed support for start-ups in the food and hospitality industry.
“Although we have dedicated networks in the city for many industries, there’s not one specifically aimed at supporting our food and beverage supply chain, or our independent restaurants. There’s a great benefit in connecting with a group of like-minded business owners on the same journey as you, and I don’t see why our local foodies should miss out on that opportunity.”
Whilst the official network launches this week, Louise has been connecting suppliers, producers and venues for the last 3 years – most of whom contact her through through her @liverpoolfoodnetwork Instagram account. She sees great benefits in promoting local suppliers.
“We ran several events before lockdown where we connected local businesses together. After the first meeting, a local coffee shop started to stock soft drinks made locally by a small producer, and they eventually replaced their big-brand offer with drinks from the local supplier. I knew then that I wanted to do whatever I could to encourage this kind of connection – It’s the right thing to do from an ethical point of view, but it’s also the beginning of a more sustainable supply chain in the city.”
Joining Liverpool Food Network means that members can access discounted rates from some of the hospitality industry’s leading professionals including accountants photographers, graphic designers and food safety consultants.
“Startups and small businesses often don’t have the resource to pay for professional consultancy, but that doesn’t mean they should miss out. I want our local independents to benefit from the highest level of consultancy at an affordable rate, and to know that they’re in safe hands as they build their business.”
Thinking about the future, Louise wants our city to be recognised globally for the innovative and forward-thinking independent businesses who call Liverpool home.
“We’ve seen some incredible brands launch from this city over the last 5 years, who have gone on to grow into other cities. I believe that Liverpool has the potential to become a world-renowned food destination. We should be bringing tourists to the city on the strength of our independent hospitality scene, in the same way that they visit for our musical or sporting heritage.”
Follow @liverpoolfoodnetwork or visit www.liverpoolfoodnetwork.co.uk
