The initial proposal to hold a marketing symposium in Queensland was based on the need to bring Industry together with particular reference to the post-harvest sector to provide, exchange and discuss information in an open forum regarding trends and/or needs in the existing value chain process which will lead to product reaching its market in ultimate post-harvest condition and value. Concepts of market brands, brand orientation, consumer trends, market segmentation, packaging and distribution were all key elements of the symposium subject matter.

One of the key messages that resonated strongly throughout the symposium was that as an industry, we don’t communicate with consumers or the community in general about how sustainable Queensland Seafood is or its value in terms of nutrition and wholesomeness. Similarly, the sustainability message of how our industry operates is also absent in our marketing.

There was a strong consensus amongst the delegates that these areas should be addressed, and that perhaps the central theme of the next symposium should be what effective strategies and methods should we as an Industry consider in engaging and creating awareness within the community as to our high level of sustainable practice and social responsibility.