Midlands flavours top the menu at Laois brewery

Kevin Scully from Vicarstown and David Walsh-Kemmis from Stradbally were among the producers at the event. | Freelance

placeholder image — Kevin Scully from Vicarstown and David Walsh-Kemmis from Stradbally were among the producers at the event. | Freelance

Laois, Offaly, Longford and Westmeath producers gather in Stradbally

The Midlands Flavours Network recently held a Network Gathering at Ballykilcavan Farm and Brewery, hosted by Network Manager Bernie Everard on behalf of the four Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs).

The gathering in Stradbally was described as an opportunity to introduce the Midlands Flavours Network Programme for the next year and highlight exciting opportunities to support growth, visibility and collaboration across the sector.

Event speakers Robert Lanigan, Michael Brady and Brendan Dooley shared valuable insights for food and drink businesses in Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath.

"The enthusiasm, passion and innovation shown by our producers continues to demonstrate the strength of the Midlands food and drink sector. We look forward to supporting our network and working together on the exciting opportunities ahead,” said the organisers afterwards on social media.

Those behind the Network describe it as a regional initiative that unites, promotes, and supports food and beverage producers across the region’s four counties. They say it aims to foster collaboration, champion sustainability, and boost the visibility of local culinary artisans.

Backed by the local authorities and the EU Just Transition Fund, it assists over 100 regional businesses – from organic farmers and chocolatiers to brewers and bakers – by providing training, networking, and opportunities to scale.

The Network will have a Midlands Flavours Marquee at the 2026 National Ploughing Championships.