UK beef exports to the Netherlands could capitalise on opportunities being presented in its restaurant sector, according to EBLEX.
In 2013, the Netherlands was the second biggest destination for volume exports of fresh and frozen beef at 32,800 tonnes. Experts at EBLEX said it provided the platform to develop the market for exports of quality cuts to the high-end foodservice industry.
Latest figures revealed beef exports to the Netherlands were worth £56 million for the period from January to July this year. Cuts accounted for 44 per cent of shipments to the Netherlands during this period, up from 36 per cent two years ago.
A group of top Dutch journalists from its foodservice sector visited the UK to experience quality UK beef production first hand and sample a beef dinner by Quality Standard Mark (QSM) ambassador and Michelin-starred chef Nigel Haworth.
Jonathan Eckley, EBLEX marketing executive, said: “The Netherlands is a significant export market for UK beef and we have built a strong presence in the Dutch market over the years.
“This has provided the perfect platform on which to highlight the quality of our product for the high end food service sector as we move forwards, looking to increase shipments of high quality beef cuts to this important market.”
