Celebrating 20 years of the New Forest Marque

Celebrating 20 years of the New Forest Marque

This year marks 20 years since the New Forest Marque was first launched.

Over the last two decades, the scheme, which started out as Forest Friendly Farming, has supported hundreds of local businesses, independent producers, and talented craftspeople to do what they do best – provide for their communities.

The distinctive New Forest Marque logo has become synonymous with some of the best local produce in the area. With a wide variety to choose from, you’ll find the logo displayed on everything from local honey and free-range eggs, to handcrafted leather goods and fine wool clothing.

In recent years, sustainability has become more important than ever. Did you know that one of the biggest environmental issues in the New Forest is our food and drink consumption? By shopping locally and enjoying delicious food made right here on our doorstep, we can really help to reduce our impact and support more sustainable practices.

Dan Parsons, Chairman of the New Forest Marque, says:

‘I’m thrilled to be celebrating 20 years of this fantastic local produce scheme. Although I’ve been the Chair for only the last five years, the New Forest Marque has evolved beyond all recognition from its earliest days. Over the last two decades, we’ve continued to support hundreds of primary producers and small businesses at every step.

‘To reach such a milestone shows just how much our members value what the Marque offers and stands for. Equally, our continued success demonstrates that residents and visitors to the New Forest really do value shopping locally and enjoying true local produce.

‘We’ve learned a lot over the years about how we can better support those who provide the area with not only delicious and sustainable food and drink, but also cultural and educational services. Following generous Arts Council funding, the launch of the new Inspired category means we’re now able to better support local craftspeople who are inspired by the beauty of our national park.

‘Over the coming years, we’re looking forward to continuing our support of the people of the New Forest, promoting the ancient practices of the area and encouraging our communities to make more sustainable choices.’

What is the New Forest Marque?

The New Forest Marque is a community of passionate producers, farmers and suppliers with the New Forest at the heart of their offering.

Marque members are wonderfully varied – providing food and drink, hospitality and retail, arts and crafts, plus tree and education services – with a common purpose to support each other, the local community, and the New Forest.

We and our members feel fortunate to live and work among the wide-open heathlands, ancient woodlands and beautiful coastline of the New Forest National Park.

If you’re reading this, chances are you love the New Forest as much as we do, and one of the ways you can contribute to this incredible place is by choosing local goods whenever possible and visiting our members who champion local producers.

Your support for the New Forest community, its rich history, commoning traditions and special habitats will help nurture a healthy and vibrant landscape and economy for the future.

Ready to learn more?

Discover the full range of Marque members, and keep an eye out at events throughout the year.