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Been there, done that!

WHEN setting up new business, one of the best ways to avoid falling at the first hurdle is to talk to those who’ve successfully leapt over it.

Which is why, after seven years supporting the county’s food and drink sector, the Made In Northamptonshire (MIN) group continues to attract start-ups who are keen to benefit from others a little longer in the business tooth.

Last month the group, which was set up by Rachel Mallows MBE DL of The Mallows Company, saw one of its most successful meetings as some 50 members, old and new, gathered to learn more about latest developments in the sector, including access to funding, new routes to market and export opportunities, as well as share their experiences and expertise.

The event, generously hosted by The Hopping Hare in Northampton – the reigning Booker Food Pub of the Year in the Carlsberg UK Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards – also provided the opportunity for members to learn top tips on maximising their return at food events from Crispin Slee and Louise Ward, the duo behind the Towcester Food Festival.

Among those to find the meeting invaluable was first-time attendee Alison Cox from Weston Favell who set up Green Kitchen Preserves in 2017.

“As well as selling my jams, pickles and chutneys to local cafes and delis, I’ve also been to a number of food events and I kept hearing other stallholders talk about this group, Made In Northamptonshire, so thought I would give it a try,” said Alison.

“I’m so glad I did because it was fantastic to meet up with other passionate producers and to gain really useful information about the sector, including all the festivals that are happening and how to make sure you get the best from exhibiting at such events.

“I also made some connections with potential stockists so this really was networking at its best.”

Made In Northamptonshire, which meets quarterly, is open to anyone from the county’s food and drink sector. For more details, including how to become a member, or to support MIN through sponsorship, call Rachel on 01933 664437 or email You can also follow the group on Facebook.

Meanwhile for more details on Green Kitchen Preserves, please visit www.greenkitchenpreserves.co.uk

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