CRIPPS: PROUD TO SUPPORT THE TASTE OF KENT AWARDS
LAW FIRM CRIPPS IS THE MAIN SPONSOR OF THE TASTE OF KENT AWARDS AND HERE, ERICA DENNETT, PARTNER AND MEMBER OF ITS FOOD AND DRINK SECTOR TEAM, EXPLAINS SOME OF THE ISSUES PRODUCERS FACE.
Not many counties can boast the sheer range of food and drink we have in Kent. With such a diverse landscape it is hardly surprising the area is known as the Garden of England, with vineyards and hop gardens, orchards, farms and fisheries dotting the countryside.
At Cripps we are stalwart supporters of the local food and drink industry, which is why this is the sixth year running we have been the main sponsor of the Taste of Kent Awards. We have been very impressed by the quality of this year’ s finalists.
Kent has long been known for its entrepreneurial culture and the excellence of its produce – whether hops, cherries, oysters, apples, cobnuts or the fabulous lamb that comes from Romney Marsh. But food is a sector that is continually evolving and adapting to new challenges and opportunities. New crops are being planted and industries emerging to process, distribute, sell and add value to the food the county grows and harvests.
At the same time, there is a move towards local sourcing and a relentless upwards drive in standards as people who are passionate about food make use of Kentish produce in their pubs, restaurants, farmers’ markets and shops.
As a law firm with more than 350 employees we can draw on the expertise of colleagues to provide expert advice on issues as diverse as buying and selling property, acquisitions and mergers, branding and intellectual property, commercial contracts, dispute resolution, trading agreements and employment advice.
Our legal advice helps ensure compliance with changing regulatory obligations – something that will come to the fore as Brexit takes shape.
We are so fortunate to have such a variety of produce on our doorstep – food and drink that is nationally acclaimed and much sought after. Our climate has enabled enterprising farmers, companies and individuals to capitalise on this and produce crops that would not thrive so well elsewhere, such as asparagus, lavender, olives and cobnuts.
Wine is another great story and our vineyards now produce still and sparkling wines that regularly beat off stiff competition from France and elsewhere in taste tests.
We have much to be proud of and the Taste of Kent Awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the finest food and drink Kent has to offer. We are delighted to give them our support.
As these innovative businesses grow and develop, they expand from start-up operations – that need signposting as to the legal issues they may face – to flourishing enterprises that employ multiple staff, acquire larger premises and expand into new markets. On this journey they need trusted advisers who can help them make the most of their opportunities and avoid legal pitfalls.
Regulations are becoming increasingly complex as the food and drink sectors change and more people take an interest in what they consume. Producers must comply with new obligations and meet the demand for greater transparency and quality. For this it is very important to seek legal advice.
We have a dedicated team to help food and drink businesses of all sizes – from start-ups to small family-run businesses and large corporate manufacturers. Our team guides clients through the complexities by providing succinct, strategic and commercial advice. www. cripps. co. uk @ crippslaw
About Cripps
Cripps is a key regional law firm serving clients nationally and internationally from offices in Kent and London. Recognised countrywide for both its commercial and private client work, Cripps focuses on wealthier families, entrepreneurial businesses and the real estate sector.
Find out more at cripps. co. uk
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