Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is looking for help in a study aimed at improving communication between all businesses and organisations in the food and drink sector in the Highlands and Islands.

In partnership with many local businesses, HIE recently reviewed its support for the development of the industry. One of the key actions is to improve the quality of the information that is available about companies in the Highlands and Islands.  

This information will be used to help firms develop better business relationships, get access to the right services and ensure that HIE targets businesses more effectively through up-to date company profiles.

The study will capture details on company contacts, quality assurance standards, what products and services are provided and the size of the company.  

This information will then be used to update buyers' and suppliers' guides on the Scottish Food and Drink website  local business directories and HIE's own database.  The website already includes information on services, events and programmes that are available or in the development stage. 

The study will take no more than five to 10 minutes and will be carried out through a number of channels including email and by phone. Firms are not required to take any action but await a request for their participation..

For further details on the study you can contact Ishabel Bremner of EKOS, who is conducting the study, on 01463-729294 - or Mark Georgeson of HIE, who is managing the project, on 01595 746804.