Flavours and aromas that can be found nowhere else in the world, a world-class food safety record, and a clean, green image make Australian foods stand out in the US. These pluses are capped off with Australia’s “exotic allure”, something that gives providers an edge in the world’s most competitive food market, said Austrade’s trade commissioner in Los Angeles Anthony Weymouth. Mr Weymouth is now immersed in Austrade’s month-long annual G’Day USA: Australia Week 2008, which co-incides this year with the annual three-day Winter Fancy Food trade show in San Diego. One of the biggest food fairs in the world, it expects up to 32,000 people from food, wine, gift and department stores, supermarkets, restaurants and other related businesses to meet more than 1000 exhibitors from around the world presenting more than 100,000 specialty foods. Previously, an impressive 87 per cent of attendees either authorised or recommended buying decisions. With a range of Australian food companies represented at both events, California is now officially food heaven. But getting there means more than just a trek across the Pacific. “The US is a complicated market,” Mr Weymouth said. “There are many choices for consumers and the US prides itself on being 100 per cent self-sufficient, so you have to have a very clear, compelling reason why someone would consider your products. But there are many small and medium-sized Australian companies here and, even though it’s tough, if you are committed, you have a good chance of success.” The Daily Telegraph (Sydney), January 14.
Jan 13
