As part of Red Funnel’s ongoing pledge to champion the Isle of Wight, its businesses and its people, the Island ferry operator has announced more partnerships with local Isle of Wight suppliers, providing passengers with even more choices of local produce available on board and in its terminals.
Customers can now enjoy the taste of locally ground coffee from the Island Tea & Coffee company, finished with fresh milk from Briddlesford Farm Dairy. This is in addition to the Steam Bar’s existing selection of Goddards Brewery beers.
Red Funnel has also introduced a flavoursome range from Newport-based Isle of Wight Ice Cream Co. Both passengers and pets can enjoy the range with a selection of dog-friendly ice cream also available for 4-legged passengers- perfect to enjoy on one of the outdoor decks in the warmer weather whilst taking in the spectacular views.
Customers can also take their favourite Island flavours home, with the option to purchase products from the Island Tea & Coffee Company, along with chutneys, relishes, and other condiments from The Garlic Farm, and award-winning Mermaid Gin and Vodka from the Isle of Wight Distillery.
Red Funnel will be announcing even more Island supplier partnerships throughout the year as it continues to expand its growing portfolio of quality local suppliers.
Fran Collins, CEO, at Red Funnel said:
“The Isle of Wight has an incredible selection of local suppliers, offering some of the UK’s best produce. Part of our role in supporting the Island economy is to ensure we are championing local suppliers and showcasing products to the millions of passengers travelling with us each year. Increasing the number of local suppliers on board also helps us reduce food miles, reducing the carbon footprint of our supply chain and advocating Island food and drink producers.”
Red Funnel has also welcomed Ventnor-based illustrator, Katy Rose who has created a series of beautiful artworks for Red Funnel’s three vehicle ferries to illustrate local produce on the Island. The murals are available for passengers to enjoy in the North Lounge aboard all Red Funnel’s vehicle ferries.
Speaking about her recent commission, Katy Rose, said:
“It has been great fun working with Red Funnel to create illustrations for their lounges. I always enjoy working on murals, creating bespoke designs tailored to each client, especially when we are able to shine a light on other local businesses around my home on the Island. I am so pleased to see my designs on board and appreciate that Red Funnel is giving me a platform to showcase my art, I hope it further highlights all the incredible talent we have on the Island.”
You can even develop your own art practice and join her Drawing Club, which Katy hosts at the Ventnor Exchange on fortnightly Thursday evenings.
How about supporting Islanders by reducing your fares? Who cares where the coffee or milk comes from ?
I prefer mainland produce Island stuff is too far too expensive.
Have you seen the price of island tomato’s? Extortionate
How about making on board prices low and reasonable to encourage more products being bought on the island. If you’re ripped off on board you probably stay away from buying it on land.
Used them last week 10.30am NO bacon???????? for breakfast..and £10.95!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! standard …used to be £6 few years ago then around £8 something..but NO bacon ..thats poor…