Maine food and beverage producers and promoters are increasing their collaboration and presence at national trade shows in the hope of attracting more buyers, retailers and investors to the state’s food-based economy.
It worked for Pemaquid Mussel Farms, whose plump, premium, rope-grown mollusks were showcased in March at a first-time Maine Seafood Reception held during the annual Seafood Expo North America in Boston.
Hosted by the Maine Center for Entrepreneurs and the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative, the reception served up lobster, scallops, oysters, mussels, seaweed, and other products representing more than 25 Maine seafood companies.
Networking among more than 200 guests at the reception, Carter Newell, managing member of Pemaquid Mussel Farms, found several new buyers and an investor willing to sink $1 million into his plan to double production to 1 million pounds per year.