Corona has strengthened the importance of local food, the independence of import and the need of alternative sales channels (like short food supply chains) for unsold export products.
In answer to this, the Flevofood Association launched the Flevourbox in April 2020. A box full of products from Flevoland, which was delivered directly to the consumer. 17,000 kg of regional products were sold to consumers through the Flevourbox. In addition, Flevofood and Taskforce Short Chains joined the national campaign #Support Your Locals. In which the whole of the Netherlands is called upon to support as many local food products entrepreneurs as possible.
Bauke van der Veen of the Flevofood Association: “The Flevour Box was created in a time of crisis, but hopefully also offers a great way to bring products from Flevoland to the attention of consumers in the future. The way people buy food really has a big impact on local entrepreneurs. This has always been the case, but in these special times when many producers are in dire straits, you can really make a difference by buying locally as much as possible. ”
In addition, Flevofood facilitated the initiative 'Farming for neighbors' during the corona crisis. This to support regional companies and to stimulate our local economy. Because of "Farming for neighbors", entrepreneurs can order fruit and vegetables, for an attractive price directly from the farmers in Flevoland. The price is slightly above the cost of the farmer and well below the retail price. The farmer receives a fair price for his products.
A similar concept has also been developed in collaboration with the Red Cross to support people affected by the Corona crisis by offering fresh food packages for free. About 30,000 people have received a helping hand in this difficult time and could enjoy fresh local food.
For more information: www.lokaalvoedselflevoland.nl/flevourbox
