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New Zealand: New World Hillcrest Alana Empson won Alto Young Butcher of the Year

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, 2015-9-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — Alana Empson from New World Hillcrest has won the Alto Young Butcher of the Year.

Last night, following months of refining her skills, she had two hours to turn a beef rump, pork loin, size 20 chicken and a mystery cut into a display of value-added cuts.

She was also assessed on her communication skills in an interview and her knowledge of the trade in an exam.

Alana Empson says it is her dedication to pursuing her passion in butchery that helped her win.

“I think if you really want something you’ll do whatever you can to get there, and for me it was practice. I did eight rehearsals and practiced at work,” she said.

Alana also said that being a female in a male-dominated industry gives her a competitive edge in the competition.

“Girls tend to be more finicky and can spot finer details so I think that will set me apart from the other competitors,” she said.

Something the judges reiterated. Head Judge of the Alto Young Butcher, Matt Grimes, says the quality of butchers improves every year.

“We found it hard to take points away from contestants. The standard is impeccable, and I am blown away by the skill of our young butchers,” he said.

As well as winning Alto Young Butcher of the Year, Alana also took out the new category this year, Best International Practical – Young Butcher.

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EPR Retail News