It's not very often that large food manufacturers work together on a project, especially if they're in competition with each other. But Premier Foods and RHM have broken the mould and joined forces on Practical Development, an initiative to preserve the future of the industry.
I set up the programme with RHM's innovations product designer Munish Manocha to educate and inspire school, college and university students who are embarking on a career in food and drink, by making the industry more accessible.
New product development (NPD) is now on the syllabus at most food colleges and universities in some shape or form. However, it is rarely delivered or discussed by individuals who not only work in, but also fully understand the role. NPD is paramount in delivering profit to businesses and quality to consumers. We feel that our Practical Development package can help students grasp a good understanding of the basics.
The programme explores product development across varying product categories and supply chains in both the retail and out-of-home markets. We hope it will act as a tool, which allows individuals to begin new roles with their eyes wide open.
Along with the basics, we are also encouraging a mentor scheme that will give people advice and support in their specific role.
The way Munish sees it, by giving a little back, we can encourage everyone to raise their game and set their targets higher. "In the UK we manufacture some of the best food in the world, but it can be better," he says. "I believe, the more we educate, the more we inspire, and the better our food will become."
Both myself and Munish will be talking to BA (Hons) Culinary Arts Management students at Birmingham College of Food on November 7.
We would like to hear your views on the programme and welcome any suggestions.
Mark Rigby is director of the Development Chefs' Network and business development chef for Premier Foods.