In this episode of the Coast and Commerce podcast, Ben Amos speaks with Nicole McNaughton, CEO of the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN), about the vibrant food and beverage industry on the Sunshine Coast. They discuss the importance of small businesses, the diversity of local food producers here, and the challenges faced by the industry. Nicole shares insights on how FAN supports its members through networking, resources, and community engagement, emphasising the need for collaboration and resilience in the face of challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of supporting local producers and the vision for a thriving food sector in the region.

Takeaways

• The majority of the food and beverage industry is made up of small businesses.
• Understanding pricing and marketing is crucial for success.
• FAN connects members with opportunities and resources.
• The Sunshine Coast food industry is valued at over a billion dollars.
• Local producers offer a diverse range of products beyond just farming.
• Supporting local businesses can be done through farmers markets and local stores.
• Collaboration among businesses enhances the ecosystem.
• Navigating regulations is a significant challenge for new food businesses.
• FAN provides programs to help businesses scale and access new markets.
• Community membership in FAN is free for those in the food value chain.

Chapters

00:00 The Landscape of Food and Beverage Industry

02:51 Connecting the Community: Food and Agribusiness Network

06:11 Diversity and Growth in the Sunshine Coast Food Sector

08:56 Supporting Local Producers and Businesses

11:45 Challenges and Resilience in the Food Industry

15:11 Navigating Early Stage Challenges in Food Business

17:57 Scaling Up: Opportunities for Established Businesses

20:46 Vision for the Future of Food on the Sunshine Coast

24:03 Joining the Food and Agribusiness Network

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S3-7