Growing Success

Roger Wareham, Partner at Saffery Champess Chartered Accountants, sponsors of Dorset Magazine Food, Drink & Farming Awards, explores the challenges and opportunities of growing a business brand in this competitive sector

Dorset is a market leader in the food and drink sector; it is also a recognised incubator for many exciting new brands. Indeed, there is a raft of household names that have originated from this county.

Whilst it is an increasingly competitive market with challenges to gain initial brand traction, the food and drink sector is continuing to see significant growth. It is important to keep in mind that at every stage of a brand’s journey there are different challenges and strategic choices to make. The more entrepreneurs can share and learn from each other, the better prepared they will be for their own journey.

One sector that is on the rise is casual dining - more of us are choosing to go out for brunch, lunch and suppers at venues that offer a laid back vibe. It is widely publicised that the established end of this market is somewhat crowded, but it offers great opportunities for new entrants with the right concept. The timing of when to launch and build a new brand or concept is vital to its future success. Due to advances in technology customers are seeking increasingly sophisticated experiences, service and quality but for lower prices. This presents a real opportunity for new brands that can be creative and nimble.