It was great to host the UK Director-General for Food, Biosecurity and Trade, David Kennedy, along with 20 other senior civil servants to SmartParc on Thursday 11th May 2023.
We hosted guests in a training room within HelloFresh’s brand new second facility at SmartParc SEGRO Derby. Following a presentation by Jackie and Kev, an interactive discussion began, chaired by Midlands Engine Chair Sir John Peace. This gave civil servants the opportunity to hear from all stakeholders involved in the project, including HelloFresh UK CEO Adam Park, Professor Tim Foster from Nottingham University, Derby City Council CEO Paul Simpson and Jason Dalby, Head of Strategic Land at SEGRO.Rodger Mendonc
Our CEO Jackie Wild gave an impassioned speech in which she spoke about her experiences in the food industry that inspired her to create SmartParc and how it will change the future.
We also heard from Lesley and Lauren, the founders of two Derby-based food SMEs, who spoke about how units within our Food Manufacturing Innovation & Technology Centre will help them scale up their businesses and ensure a more secure route to market.
Discussions were followed by a tour of the site, including a stop off at the energy centre where Mike Roberts took us through the energy strategy across the park.
Overall, a wonderful day showcasing SmartParc to the highest levels of government.
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