12 December 2023 – As its title year as European Region of Gastronomy 2023 comes to an end, Hauts-de-France takes stock of the powerful dynamic brought about by the Award that, on the one hand, raised the region’s profile as an internationally recognised gastronomic destination; while, on the other, increased the sense of pride and belonging among local residents and professionals. With over 1,000 stakeholders involved, Michelin-starred Alexandre Gauthier as a sponsor chef, and 25 chef ambassadors; almost 600 press articles published, representing nearly 5 million euro in advertising; and a multitude of synergies generated between stakeholders to create new events and projects, the region has definitely exceeded all expectations!
“Through the European Region of Gastronomy 2023 title, we set ourselves three major challenges. First, we wanted to reveal the culinary identity of Hauts-de-France. Second, we aspired to encourage vocations in the catering and hospitality professions. Finally, we aimed at ensuring a better living in the region,” affirmed François Dhalluin, Project Manager within the Tourism Engineering and Attractiveness Mission – Region of Hauts-de-France, as well as coordinator of Hauts-de-France, Europe Region of Gastronomy 2023.
In order to achieve the set goals, the programme of Hauts-de-France, European Region of Gastronomy 2023 focused on six main areas:
- Reaffirmation of the region’s food identity in a survey with local residents (with 10,000 respondents) investigating local products and recipes;
- More than 750 events were listed in the title year’s calendar, such as local farmers market, local produce fairs, conferences on food, culinary festivals, unusual dinners, and many more. Among the main highlights: the Omnivore Nord Festival; the Largest Cheese Platter; the Festival on Culinary Journalism; the World French Fries Championship; The Fork Awards in Lille; and IGCAT’s European Young Chef Award 2023;
- Several publications (some still in progress) were issued, such as the Master Chef Magazine with a circulation of over 80,000 copies, and a primer on regional gastronomy;
- Attractiveness of professions in the food and hospitality sector was increased through a number of competitions and master classes for apprentices, as well as by creating an employers’ association with the hotel and catering trade union;
- Many dedicated research programmes conducted in the field of healthy food;
- Plans and a location chosen for a beer-related tourism and cultural facility to evoke the generous spirit of the region.
On the strength of its experience and outstanding results, Hauts-de-France is already planning its future steps in the form of a thorough evaluation and with intention to build a strong legacy for the title year. New initiatives will emerge, including the creation of a literary and culinary festival, and the region is committed to keep supporting their stakeholders both in terms of investment and engineering.
The Hauts-de-France, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2023 consortium includes: Région Hauts-de-France; Chambre Régionale d’Agriculture Hauts-de-France; Chambre de Commerce et de l’Industrie Hauts-de-France; Chambre Régionale de Métiers et de l’Artisanat Hauts-de-France; POT Hauts-de-France; Union des Métiers et des Industrie de l’Hôtellerie (UMIH); UniLaSalle; Programme Investissement Avenir, Caisse des dépôts; GIP Forinval Amiens; Campus des Métiers et des Qualifications d’Excellence, Tourisme et Innovation; and Région Académique Hauts de France.
Candidate and awarded World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; drive environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; support balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlight and support expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practises; and contribute to community health and well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance to protect and promote distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguard our planet, health, wellness and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.