Bord Bia is taking every opportunity to demonstrate to Dutch buyers the quality and taste of Irish beef and the values underpinning the Beef Quality Assurance Scheme (BQAS).
The Amsterdam office was out in force at the recent Horecava trade show highlighting the investment of the Irish government, beef farmers and processors to ensure Irish beef not only tastes great but meets the highest animal welfare standards.
Irish beef - premium Hereford and Organic - featured prominently at the De Kweker stand, a premium cash and carry enterprise and committed buyer of Irish beef. The Horecava event attracts around 63,000 visitors and covers every aspect of the foodservice industry. It is held in the Rai exhibition centre covering 50,000 square metres.
According to Laura Crowley, the newly appointed manager for the Netherlands, the feedback from the market and from inward chefs and buyers visits to Ireland proves that the Dutch consumer is prepared to pay a premium for beef that has been produced to the highest standards. The welfare of the animals on farm and the BQAS meets this demand.
"Exports of beef to the Netherlands increased by 9% in 2016 to an estimated 45,000 tonnes valued at €200m. Irish prices were more competitive and increased promotional activity also contributed to improved market presence. Last year we conducted several very successful campaigns based around the barbeque season and Christmas, as well as a strong autumn campaign focused on stewing beef. We also have a very active Chefs' Irish Beef Club and ran a number of masterclasses and online campaigns under the Irish beef.nl banner."
Bord Bia Manager for the Netherlands Laura Crowley and Garry Geenen Fresh Food specialist De Kweker.