Source: NCDA&CS, 7/15/14

The Taste of Something Good event, aimed at helping individuals or businesses that have been selling a food product for at least 12 months, will take place in Charlotte and Burlington in October.

The cost of the event is $20, which covers lunch and handout materials. Space is limited to the first 16 people registered, and all food products must be branded and processed under all applicable regulations.

The events are sponsored by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The Charlotte workshop will be held Thursday, Oct. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Charlotte/Mecklenburg Cooperative Extension office. The Burlington workshop will be held Wednesday, Oct. 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alamance County Cooperative Extension office.

“These workshops will offer a new opportunity for food processors to learn ways to market their products,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Consumers are very interested in buying local, and through workshops like these we hope to support more entrepreneurs who want to build their food product businesses.” 

Workshop attendees can expect to share their food products with other food producers and receive feedback in the areas of appearance, odor, taste, texture, packaging, branding and overall perception. An afternoon session will discuss ways to get more customers and communicate your brand more effectively. This session will also include recommendations on increasing brand awareness and how to improve profitability.

Registration is now open and runs through Sept. 9. A registration form is available at www.ncagr.gov/markets/agribiz.  A completed marketing plan must be submitted with your registration and payment. For more information contact Annette Dunlap, NCDA&CS food business specialist, at 919-707-3117 or annette.dunlap@ncagr.gov.