Meat and seafood producers and fruit and vegetable growers were taught some valuable lessons when they gathered at Launceston's Tramsheds on Friday to discuss how to improve to their products and further consumer growth.
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The event, opened by Trade Minister Guy Barnett, featured talks from various successful entrepreneurs from around Tasmania, who shared their experiences of creating new and innovative ways to expand their business and products.
Speakers included Anthony Houston from Houston's Farms, Andy Fist of Kooee Snacks, John Ranicar from Forager Foods and Ruby Daley from Daly Potato Farm.
Susie Daley, owner of Daly Potato Farm, said adding further value for their customers was vital for business and the reason for their ongoing success.
"As farmers we are price takers, not price setters," she said.
"By value-adding our skin-blemished or misshapen washed potatoes, we were able to increase the value of that product, by making potato salad, and build a new enterprise that became valuable in Daly Potato Co, now owned by Pure Foods Tasmania."
A notable speaker on the line-up was her daughter Ruby Daly, who spoke to the audience about her families growth and risk taking in their business since it started 30 years ago as a humble potato farm.
The Daly family have gone on to further their business by establishing Hellfire Bluff Distillery in Dunalley, after developing a Tassie first with their award-winning potato vodka.
Ms Daly said passion was the driving force for her families business growth.
"You have to back yourself and have the passion. Passion sells products," she said.
"Coming from a farming background sometimes its hard to embrace change and take a risk, but for us starting our range of spirits paid off and has become an award winning product, so it's all about being open to new ideas."
This expansion also brought the next generation of the family back onto the farm, with son Nathan now managing some of the farms, and daughter Ruby managing the distillery.
Held by Seedlab Tasmania and the Department of State Growth, the event was introduced by Seedlab founder Dr Hazel MacTavish-West, a creative plant scientist and food industry consultant.
Dr MacTavish-West has 30 years' experience in food innovation, and an industry expert regarding the health benefits of vegetables and other plant-based foods.
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Nikita McGuire
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
