Food & Drink
Published: February 20, 2024 | Updated: 20th February 2024
Hampshire Fare’s first breakfast networking event was held Monday 19th February, bringing together more than 50 members and corporate partners.
Welcoming guests, DoubleTree by Hilton Southampton General Manager Peter Bartlett explained that the Cask & Solent Bar, Lounge and Restaurant, where the network was held, opened a year ago to provide guests with a local food and drink experience.
Natasha Dochniak, commercial manager of Hampshire Fare, the county food, drink and craft group, thanked Peter Bartlett and DoubleTree by Hilton Southampton for their generous hospitality.
She said: “We are absolutely delighted to see so many members at the network. We had record numbers attending. Hampshire Fare has always been valued for its network events, but this year we are doing things differently with more morning networks, in response to feedback from members, and we also have a lunchtime network event coming up.”
Ed Fillbrook, of Brankbrokers, one of Hampshire Fare’s Corporate Partners, commented: “Monday morning networks work really well as they are a good start to the week and fit in with people’s schedules.”
The Cask and Solent Restaurant also provided a breakfast spread which was appreciated by attendees.
Hampshire Fare members were given a special preview of Hampshire Fare’s Your Local Produce Guide 2024, prior to the official launch to the press and public.
Natasha explained: “This is an early unveiling of the Local Produce Guide. It is hot off the press, and we are absolutely delighted with it. It has a different look and feel to it this year, with thanks to Starfish Creative Design. The aim is to encourage the consumer to get out and discover and explore and support local.”
Natasha also flagged up a new event being run next month on 20 March, Hampshire Fare’s first Trade Services Expo, to be held at St Mary’s Stadium, showcasing trade services members to the food, drink and craft community.
As an additional fun element, desirable Hampshire Fare tea towels were raffled and won by Helen Owens of Rownhams House & Gardens, and Claire Hunt of The Grange.
Overall, it was a busy and vibrant network event with lots of conversations and business connections being made among the members.
The Hampshire Fare team were also delighted to welcome its youngest member, eight-month-old baby Blake, son of Chris Street and Ellie Steel of New Forest Family Butchers, helping to give the event a truly friendly, family feel.
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