A survey of shopping habits will help grow the local food and drink industry.

The online survey is being conducted by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

It can be found at www.surveymonkey.com/r/Isle_of_Man_local_food_and_drink, via http://iomfoodanddrink.com/ and on the ‘Isle of Man Food and Drink’ Facebook page.

Participants are asked how much they spend on food and drink per week, where and how frequently they shop and what factors influence this.

There are questions on the availability, variety, quality and value for money of Manx produce.

Those taking part are asked about their knowledge of local produce, what would encourage them to buy more of it and whether there are gaps in the market local producers could fill.

Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said the survey forms part of Food Matters, the strategy to grow the value of Isle of Man food and drink over the next decade.

‘Money spent on local food and drink is money that stays in, and boosts, the local economy,’ said the Minister.

‘Local food and drink producers must increasingly focus on what the customer demands to gain a greater share of the market.

‘This survey, last conducted in 2010, will tell us what influences shoppers’ choices. The findings will help everyone involved in the local food and drink sector to grow their businesses.’

The survey is completed anonymously and ends on Tuesday 24th May.

For assistance completing the survey please ring 01624 695735 or call at DEFA, Thie Slieau Whallian, St John’s.