New look representative body formed for the sector
The objective of the IFSA is to promote, develop and enhance the position of all foodservice suppliers in the industry as, not just a lobby group, but as a group that can collectively drive the whole industry forward.
Heralding the launch of IFSA, the CEA undertook a year-long strategic review of the industry and identified a clear opportunity for all suppliers to the foodservice industry to join together and not only represent themselves to the foodservice providers, but to proactively engage with the industry through forums, events and online trade & promotion. The result has seen the launch of the Irish Foodservice Suppliers Alliance, delivering enterprise, trade, training, development and networking to all of the industry.
Although the Irish Foodservice sector has over the last few years suffered particular pressure due to a decrease in consumer spending, legacy rents & rates and spiralling utility costs on top of labour market restraints and downward price pressure, foodservice is still a €6 Billion market in Ireland (equating to €1.8 Billion at operator purchase prices). Many businesses have not only survived the recession but emerged with a new passion to succeed, a focus on customer satisfaction and commitment to providing an enhanced quality of service and value. These companies are now best placed to deliver long term success, bring Ireland to a solid platform of growth and quality in our foodservice and hospitality industry and the Irish Foodservice Suppliers Alliance has been set up to represent them.
Said Julie Morrissey, Chairperson IFSA “IFSA is something that I truly believe in, I am passionate about its positive contribution that it can have on our industry. My vision for IFSA is very simply that same vision held collectively by the IFSA board and that is to be the representative body of choice for foodservice suppliers, which will demonstrate excellence in representation of our members, while being the central hub for networking, communications and sales events within the industry”
She continued, “I firmly believe that the future of foodservice in Ireland is very bright. Ireland is being recognised as a place to do smart business on the global economic stage. I believe we will continue to see the expansion of this smarter economy and with it the expansion of the corporate catering sector. After a difficult few years we are left with some really fantastic hotels, pubs and restaurants these will be the foodservice establishments that are leaner and keener and better than ever before, these are the business that will continue to boost Ireland’s reputation as a great place in which to travel, live and do business.”
IFSA members will enjoy a full comprehensive range of services from business support, and online marketplace and community and a full calendar of networking events not least CATEX 2013* next February.