Fuller's pubs in speed-dating with local suppliers

A total of 26 Fuller’s pubs across Hampshire are putting more local produce on their menu after a 'speed dating' event with Hampshire suppliers.

Chefs and managers from the 26 participating pubs across the county met with 10 Hampshire producers at a ‘Meet the Producer’ event this week, held at Fuller's pub, The Hampshire Hog in Clanfield, Hants. The event comes ahead of this year’s Hampshire Food Festival (July 1st-31st).

Products ranged from Hampshire organic meat and ice cream to chilli jams, rapeseed oil and vegetarian watercress burgers.

The event also included blind-tasting of local cheeses, rapeseed oil, ice cream and pork pies to see how each compared with mass-produced alternatives.

Simon Howlett, Fuller’s executive chef said: “70% of our dining customers are telling Fuller’s that they want more locally sourced produce on the menu, and we are committed to meet this demand by working with our Corporate Partners Hampshire Fare. The aim is for our pubs to continue to source locally all year-round, and the Hampshire Food Festival gives each pub a good opportunity to trial this with their customers."

Tim Brock, Hampshire Fare manager summed up: “This ‘speed-dating’ meet the producer session worked really well for both our local producers and Fuller’s chefs, ensuring a lot of business was done in a short time period. Orders were also placed immediately, which has been a rewarding result. Hampshire Fare has also negotiated with local distribution companies that regularly supply Fuller’s to stock more local produce which should also encourage ordering”.

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By Neil Gerrard

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