An ambitious programme of activities has been planned by MIANI for the coming months. The whole industry must address a number of serious issues if we are to sustain a viable future for all.

CONFERENCE.
MIANI is holding a major half-day conference on the 19th November to examine the state of the industry, our competition and our marketing options. Session one will look at the current state of the industry in Ireland and how the growing of mushrooms is changing. Weaknesses and opportunities and factors influencing critical costs will also be highlighted.

Session two will hear speakers from a leading supermarket, a marketing company and a grower give their views about issues affecting the business and what we have to do to get the best returns.

SUPPLY CHAIN WALKS.
Complementary to the conference a series of supply chain walks will begin. These are taking place over several weeks and will include visits to all links in the chain to examine the key factors such as price, quality, supply and efficiency. Developing transparency and understanding within the industry is vital to everyone’s future.

TALKS.
Before the summer MIANI had contacted the main marketing companies – north & south, and the IMGA initiating a dialogue, within the key players in the industry, to try to develop a strategy that everyone would support.

Talks are now about to take place where all the issues from each perspective will be debated. A positive outcome is essential, as suppliers and marketers cannot exist without growers and visa versa.

GRANTS.
At long last applications for group bids are opening, MIANI will now be consulting with growers and preparing business plans as the first stage in the process.

Some funds have already been granted to MIANI towards its costs but we can now compete for assistance for growers to invest in quality improving equipment and practices. This is a competitive process but if you’re not in you can’t win.

Full details of MIANI events will be circulated nearer the time.