Emerging Local Food Networks: A Basis for Sustainable Consumption?

Over recent years there has been an increasing consumer interest in local and sustainable foods and a growth in ‘alternative’ food networks and marketplaces, such as digital platforms, meal box schemes, farmers’ markets and other forms of purchasing directly from farmers and producers. The benefits to consumers include greater food choice, convenience, and access to quality and healthy produce.

This event, hosted by the Food and Drink Research Centre at Ulster University Business School, will look at how consumers engage with new and emerging networks and markets for local food, and the implications for food consumption and sustainable food practices currently and into the future.

Participants will have the opportunity to hear from a range of speakers in relation to trends in food buying behaviour, research insights into digital food platforms and consumer behaviour, and case examples of recent, successful local food initiatives. The event is aimed any anyone with an interest in local food trends and initiatives including, but not limited to, representatives from public agencies, trade bodies, NGOs and research institutions.

For queries, contact Professor Barry Quinn at b.quinn@ulster.ac.uk