Orkney Firms keen to get on board with Serco NorthLink Ferries

Tuesday 15th April 2014

Thirteen Orkney food, drink and crafts businesses will take part in a special meet the buyer event this week in a bid to have their products sold on Serco NorthLink Ferries’ services to the northern isles.

The firms will meet NorthLink representatives in the Stromness ferry terminal on Wednesday (16 April) and deliver a 30-minute pitch to become official suppliers.

Peter Hutchinson, senior manager vessel support services with Serco NorthLink Ferries, said the company was keen to meet with local suppliers to see what Orkney had to offer, as well as to explain their own needs.

“NorthLink Ferries remain committed to using local produce from the northern isles,” he said. “We’re particularly interested in finding high quality local items to sell in our on-board shops, along with produce for our bars and restaurants. Our chefs are always seeking ways to improve our menus, so we’re looking forward to meeting with prospective new suppliers, alongside our existing excellent Orkney food and drink providers.”

Edgar Balfour, development manager for Orkney food, drink and crafts, said: “With thousands of visitors using NorthLink’s services each year the vessels represent an excellent showcase for Orkney products, whether in the well stocked on-board shops, or in the fleet’s restaurants.

“This meet the buyer event is an ideal opportunity for Orkney businesses who have a track record of supplying NorthLink to update the company on their latest product lines, while also giving prospective suppliers the chance to secure an important new and high profile outlet for their goods.”

The full list of Orkney businesses taking part in the event is: Orkney Buffalo, Orkney Chocolate Company, The Island Smokery, Orkney Isles Preserves, Stockans Oatcakes, Orkney Ice Cream, Hume Sweet Hume, Island Design, Castaway Crafts, Fursbreck Pottery, Hilary Grant Knitwear & Textiles, Shorelines Gallery and Hagi Hus Gallery.