Isle of Man Tourism is pleased to announce the launch of ‘Taste’ Isle of Man 2011 and is inviting all eateries on the Island to take part in the scheme. This is the third year of the quality assessment scheme which was introduced to help visitors and residents choose from the diverse range of eating out options and boost consumer confidence. The scheme is open to any type of eating out establishment from restaurants to fish and chip shops. The pilot of ‘Taste’ Isle of Man was launched in 2008 when it enrolled 17 members and there are currently 32 members island-wide. The scheme is based on a completely independent assessment taking place and provides the consumer with a clear indication of quality. Those who achieve the accreditation will be awarded a ‘Quality Assured’ or ‘Highest Quality Assured’ sign to display outside their premises. An additional Harvest accolade, kindly supported by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA), is awarded for the promotion and use of produce sourced in the Isle of Man to help to support the Island economy. Minister for the Department of Economic Development, Allan Bell MHK, said: ‘Taste Isle of Man is a quality award scheme for eating establishments which recognises the importance of the food and drink industry to the Isle of Man. It is the perfect way to acknowledge businesses providing a consistently high quality eating experience and the Harvest award encourages them to ‘buy local’ to support local producers and assist in economic success for the Tourism industry.’ Member for the Department of Economic Development responsible for Tourism, Mr Geoff Corkish, MBE, MHK, added: ‘Our aim is to enrol as many businesses as possible into the scheme to encourage the provision of outstanding quality and service whilst at the same time enhancing the overall visitor experience and improving the quality of life for Manx residents. The scheme reassures potential customers that they can be guaranteed a good quality experience whenever they see the ‘Quality Assured’ sign displayed outside the premises. ‘Good quality food and drink and customer service are key ingredients for both visitors and locals alike and I would encourage anyone wishing to improve their profile to contact Isle of Man Tourism to become a member of this worthwhile scheme.’ Following the assessments a directory will be available from the Welcome Centre in the Sea Terminal and each of the quality assured establishments mentioned within it. For further information on ‘Taste’ Isle of Man contact Nikki Salmon, Isle of Man Tourism Quality and Services Executive on 685965 or e-mail nikki.salmon@gov.im. Ends