Greater Manchester Food and Drink Network

Join us for a flagship event bringing together the very best of Greater Manchester's food and drink manufacturing sector.

As the first in a new semi-annual series, this event is designed to create valuable connections, share industry insights, and showcase the innovation driving one of the region's most important industries.

We're delighted to welcome Firstplay Dietary Foods as a featured speaker. This fast-growing, family-owned manufacturer will share their journey of success, revealing how a clear focus on a niche market has fuelled sustained growth and created a strong competitive advantage.

Our keynote speaker, Mark Holmes from Smurfit Westrock, will explore the strategic role of packaging in modern manufacturing. His session will demonstrate how packaging decisions can enhance customer experience, strengthen brand value, improve operational efficiency, and directly impact profitability.

The event will also give selected businesses the opportunity to pitch their products, services and innovations to the entire audience. Alongside this, an interactive workshop will provide practical ideas and proven approaches that attendees can take back and implement in their businesses immediately, ensuring every delegate leaves with tangible value from the day.

Food. Innovation. Growth. Connections.

One event. One industry. Endless opportunities.

By the end of this session, you will:

• Make valuable industry connections with leading food and drink manufacturers, suppliers and sector stakeholders from across Greater Manchester.

• Learn how leading manufactures are responding to market challenges and opportunities, building competitive advantage and scaling their businesses.

• Gain practical ideas, tools and recommendations you can implement within your business immediately.

• Have the chance to showcase your business, increase visibility and raise awareness among potential customers and collaborators.

• Explore the latest trends, innovations and developments while becoming part of a new flagship regional manufacturing network.

Eligibility:

As this workshop is fully-funded, businesses are subject to funders' eligibility criteria. We may call or email you to determine your eligibility. If your place is confirmed, you will receive an email from bghworkshops@growthco.uk with further details.

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Agenda

08:45 - Doors Open

08:45 - 09:30 - Arrival / Registration / Networking

09:30 - 09:45 - Welcome and Introductions

09:45 - 10:30 - The Power of Mastering a Niche

10:30 - 11:15 - Business Pitches

11:15 - 11:30 - Break

11:30 - 12:00 -  Workshop

12:00 - 13:00 - The Importance of Packaging

13:00 - 14:00 - Networking

14:00 - Event Close