A new programme to develop UK markets for Highlands and Islands-based food and drink companies is to be launched early next year by the area's development agency.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise is now seeking expressions of interest from prospective supply partners to manage the delivery of its UK food and drink market development programme.

Businesses with a track record of experience in food and drink marketing are being invited to submit expressions of interest.

Food and drink is a key sector in the Highlands and Islands, as HIE development manager Rob Clarke explained:  "The area's food and drink industry generates sales in excess of £600 million a year and supports over 10,000 full time equivalent jobs across the region," said Rob.

"There are more than 250 processing businesses and it is a key sector in each of the HIE network local enterprise company areas. The range of products is diverse - including fish and shellfish, meat products, jams and preserves, dairy products, biscuits and confectionery."

HIE's new market development programme will cover a range of activities, including UK exhibitions, meet the buyer events, trade missions, learning journeys and related training events. The supply partner will be directly responsible for overall management of the programme, together with management and delivery of specific activities.

Details and registration form are available online at www.hie.co.uk/food-and-drink-partners.htm or by contacting Rob Clarke at HIE on 01463 234171.