The collaboration, facilitated by Thrve Impact Partners, establishes a direct sourcing channel for fresh produce from smallholder farmers in the nearby Belfast district, just a 10-minute drive from the hotel.
Supporting small-scale farmers and promoting food security
This partnership directly supports the people who produce approximately a third of the world’s food – small-scale farmers. With the hotel placing regular weekly orders for a variety of produce, we are playing a part in providing these farmers, including a woman farmer and several youth under the age of 34, access to a stable, consistent market segment within the hospitality industry.
This initiative is part of our commitment to demonstrating that the impact of hospitality extends far beyond guest services. It has the potential to drive sustainable long-term change for the surrounding communities.
Collaboration is the foundation of the future
The initiative aligns perfectly with the 2025 World Food Day (celebrated annually on 16 October) theme, Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future. At Kruger Gate Hotel we recognise the importance of working collaboratively with partners, staff and stakeholders to achieve a sustainable food system, which includes reducing food waste and empowering surrounding communities.
Waste reduction is a crucial complementary motivation behind this project. Globally, nearly a third of all food is lost or wasted. By buying directly from local farms, we inherently reduce the distance food travels, minimising the opportunity for loss. Furthermore, our efficient food waste management system, which includes rigorous ordering processes and donating food waste to a local pig farmer, complements this sourcing initiative.
Community empowerment
Furthermore, the initiative is deeply rooted in Kruger Gate Hotel’s long-term sustainability strategy.
One of the main pillars of our sustainability strategy is community and people. Our staff and their families are in this community. It’s important to us to foster long-term relationships with this community – our community – and this project is one of the most meaningful ways in which we can do this.