A leading local food business has gained the coveted British Retail Consortium (BRC) accreditation.

Berries Isle of Man, luxury pudding makers and confectioners, earned the benchmark after a rigorous inspection of its premises, procedures and paperwork.

The BRC independently audits food manufacturing facilities around the world to ensure compliance with its stringent global safety standards.

Leading retailers insist suppliers are BRC certified.

The announcement opens up potential new markets at a time the Island is seeking to grow the value of the food and drink sector by ?50 million via its ‘Food Matters’ strategy.

Based in Port St Mary and on Balthane industrial estate, Berries is a family-run business whose Christmas puddings have gained the highest award at the Great Taste awards for the last four years and have been stocked in such well-known stores as Fortnum & Mason and Partridges of London.

Karl Berrie, the business’s owner and development chef, said of the BRC recognition: ‘We will now be able to market our company worldwide as a leading luxury food manufacturer.

‘We would like to thank all of those, including the Department of Economic Development, who have helped make this happen. It’s also important we acknowledge the local producers who supply the high quality ingredients that go into our products.

‘This year is looking to be our most successful year yet.’

Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, and Geoffrey Boot MHK, Member of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture with responsibility for the Food Matters strategy, today presented Berries with the BRC accreditation.

Mr Boot said: ‘The Island has been producing food and drink for centuries but there’s a fresh impetus behind the industry and this is benefiting our economy.

‘Berries is a great example of a company that has taken traditional products and given them a modern twist, resulting in their products winning awards and being sought out by leading retailers.

‘The company uses predominantly Manx ingredients, supporting Isle of Man food and drink.

‘Gaining this globally recognised accreditation will open new doors for Berries and enhance the Island’s reputation as a producer of top quality food and drink.’

Photo -  Karl Berrie of Berries receiving his British Retail Consortium accreditation from Minister Ronan and Mr Boot MHK.