26 food companies in Gelderland join forces

Twenty-six food production companies in Gelderland have further consolidated their efforts within the new collaborative venture, the Food Production Cluster. This initiative was officially announced at a meeting on May 13, 2024, attended by acting Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy (EZK), Micky Adriaansens. The collaboration focuses on major themes such as innovation and circular work practices.

The initiators of the cluster include companies already part of the Food Academy Nijkerk (FAN), a partnership with Aeres providing regional practical education in the food sector. The food production industry is strongly represented in the municipalities of Barneveld, Scherpenzeel, and Nijkerk. Together with local government, they are committed to a sustainable future for this region. Martine Onderdijk, chair of the Food Production Cluster, highlights the benefits: "By working together, we can address themes such as circular work practices, energy sharing, and staff training more efficiently. This benefits companies, employees, consumers, and municipalities."

Knowledge as a foundation for innovation

Mariëlle Broekman, economic affairs alderman for the municipality of Nijkerk, welcomes the collaboration. According to her, the food production companies form the basis for a healthy economy in Nijkerk and beyond. She underscores the importance of the food production industry for employment and societal issues such as sustainability and affordable healthy food. "The companies are brimming with knowledge that they can use for new, innovative, and sustainable developments," says Broekman.

Minister Adriaansens visits Nijkerk

During the meeting, Minister Micky Adriaansens engaged in discussions with food production companies, educational institution Aeres, the province of Gelderland, and the involved municipalities. The conversations focused on opportunities and challenges within the food production industry, with a particular emphasis on competitiveness and chain cooperation. After the discussions, the minister, along with provincial executive Witjes and alderman Broekman, received a tour of 2Sisters Storteboom, where the meeting took place.

Regiofoodvalley.nl

Photo: Aalt Guiliker