Food and Drink Producers Invited to Power Northern Ireland’s Tourism Drive

Tourism Northern Ireland calls local food and drink businesses to take centre stage in a proposed event to champion the region’s gastronomic heritage.

Organisers say the showcase will highlight unique produce, forge valuable business connections, and encourage local sourcing in the country’s bustling tourism sector.

The initiative comes as new figures reveal that food and drink now account for over 35% of all tourism spending in Northern Ireland—amounting to around £420 million of the region’s £1.2 billion tourism economy. Recognising this substantial contribution, Tourism Northern Ireland hopes the event will underscore the growing appetite for locally sourced, sustainable, and high-quality products among visitors and hospitality providers.

Who Should Apply?

• Food and drink producers whose products offer a distinctive taste of Northern Ireland and a compelling story.
• Businesses championing sustainability, local sourcing, and top-notch quality.
• Those ready to engage the public and industry professionals through tastings, samples, and engaging demonstrations.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to introduce their products to a range of hospitality and tourism outlets—including hotels, visitor attractions, event venues, and independent food and drink establishments. Although completing an Expression of Interest does not guarantee a spot in the showcase, Tourism Northern Ireland has emphasised that all submissions will help gauge demand and decide the feasibility of hosting the event. If the number of applications exceeds capacity, a selection process may come into play.

The deadline for Expressions of Interest is 5pm on 31 January 2025. Tourism Northern Ireland has also confirmed that all submitted information will be held in line with its privacy policy and may be referenced for future initiatives.

Producers eager to place their local delicacies on the tourism map are encouraged to submit their interest promptly. Should the proposed event go ahead, it promises a unique platform to champion the best of Northern Ireland’s homegrown flavours—and offer a tantalising taste of what visitors can expect when they explore the country’s vibrant culinary scene.

Register by clicking here.