More than 200 Sussex businesses pledge to sell six more local foods

More than 200 shops, pubs, restaurants and cafés across Sussex have signed up to Sussex Six, a campaign asking them to serve or sell six more locally produced food or drink items.

It runs from 26 September to 11 October, alongside Great British Food Fortnight. The campaign is organised by Natural Partnerships CIC, a community interest company that works on local food, drink and farming projects.

Paula Seager, its co-director, said Sussex has “farmers growing glorious Sussex meats, vegetables and fruits” as well as small-batch makers, wine, beer, spirits, cheese and baked goods. “We have it all here in Sussex,” she said, “and urge you to support your local producers.”

Bella Sankey, the leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, launched the campaign in the city. She asked local shops and hospitality businesses to sign the pledge, and residents to back them. “We can grow our economy, create more jobs and opportunities and make our lives more sustainable by buying local and supporting our local food sector,” she said.

Lewes District Council is behind it too. Emily O’Brien, its cabinet member for climate, nature and food systems, said: “It’s good for our local communities and it’s good for the environment.”

A map of the businesses taking part, and a directory of more than 750 Sussex food and drink producers, is at sussexfoodanddrink.org.

First reported by the Argus¹.