Base de Datos de Proyectos de PDR

The NEBUS Network has developed an on-line retail & distribution system, supported by a dynamic promotional campaign, connecting a network of local producers of fresh farm products & other locally produced products with local retailers & consumers.

This project was designed to respond to the growth in demand for rural tourism in Belgium and the increasing consumer demand for authentic regional and local food products. Combining the forces of a number of local community groups in Central West-Flanders, all of whom had established links with a wide range of talented local producers and retailers, provided an ideal platform for the development of a regional distribution network and promotional campaign that could benefit the whole region.

The project objective was to develop an effective distribution platform for a wide range of local products from central West Flanders, intended to support local retail outlets, ensuring timely delivery of various farm-fresh products & other products. Through establishment of an on-line store, whereby retailers could place weekly orders, information on all orders could be combined & passed on to individual producers within the distribution network

Activities included: (i) Building a network of producers of fresh produce and other products in every municipality in the Leader Region Tielts Plateau (Tielt, Pittem, Wingene, Ruiselede, Ardooie, Dentergem, Beernem and Oostkamp); (ii) Development of a comprehensive local product portfolio that could be marketed both on-line and regionally to consumers; (iii) Development of communication campaign to raise the profile and enhance the identity of the region and its products.

Results anticipated include increased sales, turnover and profitability of local producers, retailers and other local businesses; Enhanced regional image & identity; Strengthened community links and pride in the region; Increase in rural tourism and recreational potential of the Tielt Plateau; Contributing (together with a number of other Leader projects) to sustained incomes and employment for many local people; improving the quality of life for residents and visitors to the region.

Combining the strengths of different rural communities in innovative ways can ensure the future prosperity or rural areas. Identification of innovative niche products & services have contributed significantly to the success & sustainability of the network. Thinking locally & acting locally, combining peoples desire to purchase regional products from the store on the corner of the street, has ensured the sustainability of many local businesses.

vzw De Lochting, Oude Stadenstraat 15, 8800 Roeselare, Belgium

Prov. West-Vlaanderen

Flanders

314 134

Dirk Lammertyn

dirk@lochting.be

Dutch