International recognition for FoodNI’s Krazi Baker
Dromore, Co Down’s Krazi Baker (Mark Douglas) has won a major international food
and drink award for his work in promoting traditional breads.
Mark, a FoodNI member, has won a prestigious LUXlife Magazine award as
Northern Ireland’s Best Family-Run Artisan Bakery for his longstanding focus on
reviving interest among shoppers in traditional Northern Irish breads at food markets
here.
The influential awards celebrate excellence across the global culinary landscape.
This prestigious programme honours the artisans, entrepreneurs, and brands
redefining how we eat and drink – from fine dining establishments and boutique
producers to sustainable brands and gourmet retailers.
A craft baker for over 30 years, Mark says: “I am absolutely thrilled to have received
this global recognition for my endeavours to strengthen consumer awareness of and
interest in traditional breads such as potato cakes, sodas and wheaten breads which
I bake fresh at local food markets such as Newtownards and Carrickfergus on a
weekly basis. Over the years, I’ve built up a strong client base.”
He’s also added products such as pancakes, treacle loaves and other traditional
barmbracks that were also baked in home here in the past. Seasonal favourites such
as Christmas and Simnel cakes are also a feature of his work. In addition, he
provides baking tuition courses. Mark has also won UK Great Taste and International
Bakery awards.
The food and drink industry remains a cornerstone of the global economy, valued at
over $9 trillion in 2025 and projected to grow steadily in the coming years. It is worth
£5 billion to the local economy. The sector is also undergoing rapid change, driven
by demand for sustainability, technological integration, and health-conscious
products. As these consumer tastes evolve, businesses are embracing eco-friendly
practices, creative flavours, and smart solutions – setting the stage for the innovation
the Food & Drink Awards 2025 aims to recognise.
Winners are selected purely on merit by the magazine’s experienced in-house
research and judging team. Each nominee is carefully evaluated based on a range of
factors, including customer reviews, innovation in product or service delivery,
business growth, and any notable achievements throughout the judging period. This
ensures a fair and transparent selection process, with recognition awarded to those
truly making a difference in the global food and drink landscape.
All winners of the Food & Drink Awards 2025 will receive a complimentary listing in
our official online directory, along with access to a free promotional toolkit designed
to help showcase their achievement.
