Herits: Quality refurbished equipment, backed by industry experience
In this issue of Food & Drink Matters, we are delighted to feature Herits Ltd as our Industrial Food Machinery and Commercial Catering Equipment Company of the Month.
Herits Ltd was founded by brothers James (pictured) and Xander Phillips in February 2024. Their journey began prior to the launch of Herits, in their own restaurant kitchens, where they experienced first-hand the shortcomings of traditional food machinery and catering equipment suppliers. Determined to make a change, they established Herits to provide higherquality and more cost-effective service.
Serving clients nationwide, with a repairs workshop, store and showroom in South Devon in Ipplepen, Herits operates with one simple goal, to make it easy for customers to cost-effectively upgrade their commercial kitchen facilities.
“We specialise in buying, refurbishing, and selling high-quality pre-used industrial food machinery and catering equipment. We take pride in sourcing the best products available at prices that match our customers’ budgets. Beyond sales, we offer a comprehensive service that includes installation, de-installation, and responsible disposal of old equipment, allowing our clients to stay focused on their food service operations. Every piece of equipment we sell is carefully repaired, thoroughly safety-checked, and professionally cleaned before delivery to ensure it meets the highest standards,” stated James.
Each member of the Herits team has previously worked in the industry which means they really do understand commercial kitchens and have the technical know-how to be able to refurbish pre used equipment to a reliable quality standard. This service is also backed by a minimum 3month warranty often extending to 6-12 months. Receiving 5-star reviews across the board, customers have left comments such as:
‘Fantastic support for a small local business – fast service and nothing was too much trouble.’
‘Purchased a double refrigerated drawer unit. It was serviced and delivered by the team professionally and promptly.’
‘I recently bought some second-hand catering equipment from James, and I must say it was incredible value for the price.’
Herits is also extremely conscious of its environmental responsibility, and is committed to doing everything it can to positively increase its sustainable impact on the planet, including services like full de-installations and disposal services, as well as recycling, retaining, and reusing good quality parts for repair when required. Herits also works on behalf of its clients to reduce their footprint:
“By sourcing and offering good quality refurbished cleaner refrigeration technologies and providing energy efficient appliances, we enable
commercial kitchens to reduce their costs as well as their carbon output. Whether you’re a bakery, restaurant, hotel, school, or any commercial/ industrial kitchen, we would love to work with you,” stated James.
Looking ahead, Herits is launching its own ecommerce site next month with the intention of enabling other suppliers in the same industry sector to use that site to sell, making it easier for customers to only source pre-used items from one site only.
In closing, James added, “Commercial kitchens have come a long way with today’s smart, high-tech appliances. With AI, sustainability, and technology driving progress, kitchens are becoming smarter and greener. At Herits, we use our industry expertise to help customers optimise their kitchens with high-quality, pre-used equipment that fits their budget.”
For more information, please see below: T 01803 501066 https://www.herits.co.uk https://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/ herits-food-machinery
HeyLO! Launches bold new look and expands low-carb range
HeyLO! – the low-carb bakery – continues to challenge keto expectations with dramatic rebrand in partnership with dynamic agency duo, No Biscuits and The Tribe.
This week, Leeds-based disruptor brand, HeyLO!, unveils a major packaging overhaul and launch of new low-carb products, signaling a fresh chapter in the brand’s commitment to build on distribution made in 2024 and the unstoppable momentum of the keto and low carb movement.
After collaborating with renowned agencies, No Biscuits and The Tribe, HeyLO!’s revamped identity reflects its energetic, innovative approach while also boasting new low-carb brownie bars and flatbreads, ushering in new ways for customers to enjoy healthier, indulgent baked products without compromising on their nutritional goals.
No Biscuits Agency, based in London and known for its impact on brands from Coca-Cola to Wildfarmed, was instrumental in reworking HeyLO!’s visual identity. Their unique ‘regen creative’ approach fused bold, impactful vision with contemporary design, ensuring HeyLO! stands out on shelf, while reflecting the low-carb brand’s passionate personality and purposeful, game-changing mission.
Commenting on the partnership, Flo Heiss, co-founder of No Biscuits said, “The key challenge was creating a
logo design that captured the spirit of HeyLO!: fun, confident, and full of vitality while ensuring it communicated the quality and authenticity that consumers expect from this deeply trusted brand. We trawled through years of customer feedback and time and time again, HeyLO! was described as ‘lifechanging,’ so we knew we had to bring this energy into the new look.”
Meanwhile, The Tribe, a female-owned, Manchesterbased strategic branding agency known for its work with household names like Quaker and Dr. Oetker, rolled this out across the full range. The new packaging will break through an often homogenised shelf, combining boldness with simplicity to create a clear, accessible message that resonates with today’s health-conscious consumer.
New keto-friendly products expands its range
As part of its evolution, HeyLO! is also introducing four new and improved low-carb products, totalling its range at a significant 17 lines. Its new keto-friendly Brownie Bars, available in Choco, Ginger, and Orange flavours, offer a high fibre, low sugar, vegan, gluten free alternative, meaning customers can satisfy their sweet craving without derailing their low-carb goals. Additionally, after spotting a wide variety of uses by its passionate followers, HeyLO! is switching its pizza bases to flatbreads to emphasise their versatility at meal time.
The low-carb movement continues to gain momentum
The low-carb movement shows no sign of slowing down – the hashtag Keto has amassed over 10.3bn views on TikTok and over 21m on Instagram – making innovation like this central to help Brits maintain a sustainable, healthier way of living. By 2050, it is predicted that up to 60% of UK adults could be obese*, with over 4.8 million suffering from diabetes, equating to 6% of the UK population. It has been shown that switching to a low-carb diet can have a significant impact on weight loss as well as reversing type 2 diabetes**, demonstrating the clear need for innovation and disruption in this space.
“It’s not just a new look but a truer reflection of us as a brand. We’re
not afraid to challenge the status quo and finally feel our bold new look and even bigger range reflects the energy and support we offer our dedicated community – delicious food that keeps them on track, whilst making them smile!” said Heidi Normanton, Founder of HeyLO! “By continuing our mission to create lowcarb options that genuinely taste and satisfy just like their high-carb counterparts, we’re proving the choice doesn’t have to be a sacrifice, and they can have their life back by making these small switches.”
Supporting UK manufacturing and female entrepreneurship
The Made in the UK label on the majority of the range highlights the brand’s commitment to its local manufacturing in the North West and Yorkshire, while the intentional Buy Women Built logo reinforces HeyLO!’s strength as a female-founded company and one that supports this movement at every step.
The refreshed design and new product lineup will be available from 7th May, following the 2025 Food & Drink Expo in Birmingham. With a bold new look, innovative products and passionate fan base, HeyLO! is confidently positioned to continue its growth within the competitive health-food category.
Discover more at: weareheylo.com
*Gov.UK
**Diabetes.co.uk
CATEX celebrates 60th anniversary
Celebrating its 60th year, CATEX returned to the RDS, Simmonscourt Complex on the 18th20th February 2025 as Ireland’s largest foodservice and hospitality event.
CATEX has been operating since 1965 as the must-attend experience for anyone involved in foodservice, catering, or hospitality to gain insights that will shape the future of their businesses whilst discovering the very best sustainable waste management, cost saving and energy solutions.
CATEX 2025 was the biggest show in the event’s history, welcoming over 280 leading industry suppliers who showcased their products and
innovations across three actionpacked days.
This year’s show excelled in shining a spotlight on local producers who came together under the Local Enterprise Office Scheme, offering visitors the opportunity to meet face-to-face with innovative food producers including Wildberry Bakery, Goodness Grains, and many more.
The much-anticipated IFSA Award Winners were announced on the Tuesday, and included products brought to the market since December 2023 in the realm of Light and Heavy Equipment, TechnologyLed Products and Services along with Sustainable Food and Packaging.
Discussion panel topics titled Diversify Your Seafood Offering: Sustainability & Profitability, and Sustainability & Waste Reduction in Kitchens, as well as masterclasses in BIM Fish Skills, Pork, and an Avonmore Dessert Demo were also a highlight.
Contact https://catexexhibition.com
Bespoke Trailers for the catering and hospitality industry
For over 40 years, Butlers Trailers & Marquees Ltd has been offering unrivalled expertise in the manufacturing and construction of Trailers, Marquees and Tipis.
As a family-run business, the company prides itself on a skilled manufacturing team capable of transforming standard trailers into bespoke catering units, van conversions, sales and exhibition trailers, hospitality and farmers’ market setups, welfare units, and both luxury and accessible toilet facilities
For food and beverage use, the company offers a versatile range of trailers designed to suit a variety of offerings – from coffee, fish & chips, and burgers to sandwiches, crêpes, pizza, pasta, and confectionery. Each trailer is manufactured in-house at its Randalstown, Northern Ireland premises, and can be fully customised to meet your exact fit-out requirements.
Almotech Media Solutions
Almotech provides digital signage and in-store radio systems for the food and drink, retail and hospitality sectors. We supply and install screens, speakers and media players, all managed remotely through our own software. You can update content across one or multiple sites without needing to be on location.
We design and schedule all visual and audio content in-house. This includes digital menu boards, promotional signage, timed campaigns, licensed background music and professional in-store radio ads. Our system supports dayparting and seasonal changes to keep messaging relevant.
By delivering targeted content at the point of sale, our platform helps influence customer decisions, highlight key products and support sales. Whether you want to drive upsells, promote offers or maintain a consistent customer experience, we manage the content and technology for you.
The system runs from a central server with automatic updates and remote monitoring. We also provide full support, including maintenance and on-site callouts if needed.
You can choose to supply your own equipment or leave it to Butlers to handle everything for you. Renowned for its high-quality design and engineering, Butlers’ products have stood the test of time. Serving customers across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Scotland, and Europe, Butlers offers a diverse range of services – including hire options for exhibition and hospitality setups, seated grandstands, mobile staging, commentary boxes, refrigeration units, marquees, tipis, and stretch tents. Its on-site showroom also features a variety of products, such as trailer parts and towing accessories, catering equipment, bike racks, and compact domestic car trailers.
For a free quote, contact Butlers below: T 028 9447 3996 info@butlersevents.co.uk https://butlersevents.co.uk
Almotech works with businesses of all sizes, from single sites to multi-location chains. We make digital signage and instore audio easy to manage, reliable to run and effective at improving how you
Award winning shortbread from New Forest National Park
In this issue of Food & Drink Matters, we are pleased to feature New Forest Shortbread Ltd as our Authentic Artisan Shortbread Company of the Month
Looking to add an authentic artisan shortbread selection to your store? These beautiful boxes of shortbread are covered in illustrations by local artists with notes about each image on cards to tear off and keep, making these local, hand-made shortbread a great gift or treat.
“Our all-butter New Forest Shortbread is not mass-produced or impersonal, but crafted with care and a sense of heritage. We have enormous pride in what we produce and we source our ingredients from Harvest Fine Food, a local wholesaler that buys in Anchor butter made in Westbury, especially for us to use. Anchor is made using milk from local British dairy herds. We sell at county shows Ellingham, New Forest Show, Alresford Show sponsoring the dairy classes which we see as a link to supporting the local production of butter. We have further teamed up with our friends the New Forest Tea Company, Mozzo Coffee and Hampshire Lavender Fields to create delicious recipes using their unique locally produced products,” stated Tracy Thew, Founder & Owner.
New Forest Shortbread has been delighting visitors to the New Forest National Park since 2015. Drawing on years of experience, Tracy has perfected the fine art of shortbread baking. What began as a personal passion at her kitchen table has grown into a thriving local business, where each lovingly handcrafted batch is baked and packed into boxes of award-winning, flavoured shortbread.
Tracy takes pride in her creative, out-ofthe-box approach to product development, carefully curating flavours that are anything but ordinary – unique, inventive, a playful twist on tradition, and curiously delicious. These flavours are what gives the shortbread their distinctiveness with an element of surprise, including unexpected gems like Rosemary, Coffee, and Raspberry, as well as award-winning Earl Grey, and lavender.
“We are about to launch our new Ginger flavoured New Forest Shortbread,” said Tracy. “It features a hint of peppery spice, warm notes of citrus undertones and chewy pieces of crystallised ginger, it’s absolutely delicious!”
What makes New Forest Shortbread truly special is its deep-rooted connection to place. Nestled in the heart of the New Forest
National Park, the shortbread is made on the grounds of Tracy’s home at Burley Rails Cottage – a charming former woodman’s cottage built in 1811. The warmth and care that shape the company’s success are born from a heartfelt commitment to homegrown values. Since day one, Tracy and her all-female team of bakers have championed conscious, thoughtful practices – from the food they craft to the wellbeing of their team, their working environment, and the close-knit relationships they nurture with local suppliers, businesses, and friends.
The tagline ‘Like Nana Makes’ tells you everything you need to know about the brand and its origins. From their first batch of all-butter shortbread over 50 years ago, Tracy and her team of skilled artisans still continue to create by hand to this day.
If you’re interested in stocking New Forest Shortbread, Tracy supplies to retail stores, farm shops and hotels nationally and was recently featured in New Forest Collection’s fifth episode of their ‘Forest to Fork’ series.
For more information, please see below: T 07471 684639 enquiries@newforestshortbread.co.uk https://www.newforestshortbread.co.uk
The North served up something special: NRB25 & lunch! NORTH
The first-ever Northern Restaurant & Bar colocated with lunch! NORTH took place on the 11th-12th March 2025 at Manchester Central.
Known as one of the UK’s largest hospitality shows, providing a platform for the entire industry across the North of England, Northern Restaurant and Bar (NRB) brings together leading operators and suppliers, promoting ideas and inspiration, and represents and leads the sector in the region.
“NRB is the date in the calendar for Northern hospitality; an event that brings the industry together like no other,” Will Beckett, CEO and Co-Founder, Hawksmoor.
This year, NRB welcomed over 12,000 visitors across the two-day event with an extensive line-up of industry leaders and chef demos in Manchester. Setting new attendance records, NRB, and the newly launched lunch! NORTH, set new attendance records, marking a 13.4% increase compared to last year.
With over 400 food, drink, tech and equipment suppliers showcasing the very best innovations across the sector, NRB25 saw a jam-packed line up of interviews with some of the industry’s most influential leaders, sharing insight and discussion on the sector’s key trends and challenges.
This show is a fantastic place to launch new products and services to a captive audience, whilst promoting your brand as market-leading.
NRB attracted hundreds of industry professionals and brands interested in a variety of services and products from catering equipment and technology to delivery services, packaging, food, EPOS, financial services, recruitment, alcoholic beverages, front of house, and much more.
Sponsored by Uber Eats, NRB is the leading hospitality trade show in the North, and this must-attend event excelled in once again bringing together the best of Northern hospitality under one roof with a stellar line up of keynote speakers, exclusive interviews, live demonstrations, and invaluable networking opportunities.
Some of the highlights from NRB25 came from the Keynote Theatre where industry leaders including Kate Nicholls OBE (UKHospitality), Simon Potts (The Alchemist), and Roy Ellis (Mission Mars) discussed key hospitality challenges and opportunities.
Over at Chef Live, Tom Barnes (Skof), Ruth Hansom (Hansom Restaurant & Wine Bar), and Danielle Heron (OSMA) showcased their culinary expertise, whilst at the Pub & Bar Theatre was panels on leadership, brewing innovations, and mixology that featured William Lees-Jones (JW Lees) and award-winning mixologist Joe Schofield (SCHOFIELD’S BAR).
The anticipated KUITS NRB Top Fifty Power List 2025 was also revealed at the opening of the show. Returning for its twelfth edition, the esteemed list celebrates the top-performing and most influential hospitality operators across the North who have achieved exceptional commercial success and critical acclaim over the past year. The top fifty names are selected by an expert judging panel following a rigorous research and selection processes and featured brands such as Apartment Group, Grantley Hall, Mother Mercy, Seafood Pub Company, Southern Wind Group as New Entries, as well as Archies, Daniel Schofield, Joe Schofield & James Brandwood, and The Inn Collection Group as Special Achievement Winners.
NEW this year, NRB was co-located with lunch! NORTH. The new show was designed with a focus on the café, coffee shop, and food-to-go sector in the North. This successful co-location enabled more
incredible opportunities for visitors and exhibitors to do business with eachother and maximise their investment.
Lunch! NORTH is a sister event to NRB25 that took place at the same venue by the same organisers. Even though lunch! had been running successfully in London for 16 years, for the first time, it came together with its Northern counterpart and featured brands such as Hip Pop, TRIP DRINKS LTD, Britvic, Tony’s Chocolonely, Tiffin Sandwiches and The Exploding Bakery.
Of course, the fact that this was lunch! NORTH’s first ever Northern edition of the leading café, coffee shop & food-to-go trade show was its main highlight, but some other popular features also included talks unveiling exclusive industry insights by Simon Stenning (FutureFoodservice), Marta Pogroszewska (GAIL’s), and Christian Binney (Burger King UK), as well as discussions on the Food-To-Go Leaders Panel with Jon Lake (Chopstix), Dimeji Sadiq (Vegan Shack), and William Gordon-Harris (Knoops).
Siobhan Thompson, event manager for NRB25 said, “This year, we raised the bar once again with an incredible lineup of speakers, interactive sessions, and the introduction of lunch! NORTH. It was a must-attend event for anyone in the industry who wanted to be inspired, make connections, and stay ahead of the game.”
Katie Tyler, Event Director for lunch! NORTH, also commented, “We were so excited to launch lunch! NORTH and to welcome visitors to the brand-new event. The café, coffee shop, and food-to-go sector in the North is booming, and it was great to bring together the best brands, experts, and ideas to help these businesses thrive. It was great to see the industry come together!”
The next Northern Restaurant & Bar co-located with lunch! NORTH will take place on the 10th-11th March 2026 at Manchester Central.
https://northernrestaurantandbar.co.uk https://www.lunchnorth.co.uk
CATERING & HOSPITALITY MATTERS
At TheCommercialOvenStore.
com, we know that the heart of any professional kitchen is a reliable, high-performance oven. That's why we offer an extensive range of ovens from the world’s leading brands – including Blue Seal, Lincat, Unox, Rational, and Merrychef.
Whether you’re running a bustling restaurant, a cozy café, or a fast-paced catering business, you’ll find the ideal
solution with us. Our selection includes powerful gas and electric ranges, versatile combi ovens, high-efficiency speed ovens, and durable convection ovens, all designed to keep your kitchen operating at peak performance.
Explore cutting-edge features, energyefficient designs, and trusted engineering – all in one place. From compact units for
smaller kitchens to heavy-duty systems for large-scale operations, we make it easy to find the right fit for your needs and budget.
Expert advice, competitive prices, and trusted brands – all at TheCommercialOvenStore.com
Get the equipment you can rely on, and take your kitchen to the next level.
T 0207 965 7502 sales@thecommercialovenstore.com
At The Commercial Oven Store, we take great pride in being your go-to destination for all your commercial oven needs. We understand that when it comes to running a successful business, having the right equipment is crucial. That’s why we have dedicated ourselves to providing top-notch products, coupled with expert advice, to help you make informed decisions and achieve your goals.
As a supplier of commercial ovens, we have established strong partnerships with leading manufacturers in the industry. By working closely with these renowned brands, we ensure that our customers have access to a wide range of high-quality ovens that meet the diverse needs of various businesses. Whether you’re in the food service, hospitality, or catering industry, we have the perfect oven to suit your requirements.
COFFEE MATTERS
Coffee enters a revolutionary new era with the Bluewater Café Station Debut at World of Coffee Dubai
As coffee continues to be celebrated in numerous studies for its health and wellness benefits, a revolutionary innovation is set to redefine the coffee experience across the UAE and wider Middle East. The ground-breaking Bluewater Café Station, recognised by The Caterer Magazine as a 2024 ‘Best Buy’ for specialty coffee shops in the UK, will be showcased at the World of Coffee Expo in Dubai from February 10th-12th on Booth Z5-G6.
At the heart of this innovation is Bluewater’s mission to ensure that every cup of coffee not only tastes extraordinary but also promotes wellbeing. The Café Station™ guarantees that the water used in brewing is free from contaminants increasingly found in tap water worldwide, such as toxic chemicals like PFAS, and microplastics. But the innovation doesn’t stop at purification – the Bluewater Café Station empowers baristas with unmatched brewing consistency, pushing the boundaries of specialty coffee craftsmanship.
Recent studies have highlighted several possible health and wellbeing benefits associated with moderate coffee consumption, including a lower risk of death from various causes such as heart disease and stroke, a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and helping to maintain healthy liver enzyme levels.
“The Bluewater Café Station™ solution not only purifies water of all known contaminants but also optimally enhances
it using our exclusive Liquid Rock® mineral dosing system,” says Maximillian Lundin, head of Bluewater’s Coffee Division and a former top Swedish chef with a passion for sustainability. “This ensures that every cup brewed achieves its fullest flavour potential, creating an unparalleled sensory experience for coffee lovers.”
The Café Station’s precision water calibration technology tailors the mineral composition of water to match the unique profile of each coffee bean. By fine-tuning water chemistry, baristas can confidently unlock and amplify the intricate flavours and aromas of their specialty beans, ensuring a sublime and consistent brew every time.
Lundin adds, “Another major benefit of the Bluewater solution is that it significantly reduces scaling, which cuts down on the cleaning and servicing needs of costly brewing equipment while extending its lifespan – all benefiting coffee shop profitability.”
Visitors to the Bluewater booth – staffed by a team from Bluewater and the company’s UAE and Middle East partner, NIA – can experience these innovations firsthand and savour exceptional coffee brews in Zabeel Hall 5, Stand G6 at the Dubai World Trade Center.
Maximillian Lundin, Head of Bluewater’s Coffee Division
In a further advancement for precision coffee brewing, Bluewater and NIA – the UAE’s leading distributor of innovative living appliances and wellbeing solutions – have announced a ground-breaking collaboration with Roasttrip, the exclusive UAE distributor of Kees van der Westen espresso machines. This partnership will debut the Spiritello machine, seamlessly integrated with the Bluewater Café Station™, marking a significant leap in specialty coffee innovation.
Additionally, visitors to the World of Coffee Expo will have the opportunity to stay hydrated with purified, chilled Bluewater, available free of charge from Bluewaterbranded dispensers strategically placed throughout the exhibition. Don’t miss Bluewater’s game-changing outdoor City Station, equipped with two 55” video screens broadcasting real-time information and messages to the public while also serving purified water on demand.
With its deep-rooted Swedish commitment to quality and sustainability, the Bluewater brand’s broad spectrum water purification and beverage offerings for home, work, and play are designed to meet the evolving good hydration needs of both consumers and businesses alike. From energy-efficient underthe-sink water purifiers to water-enhancing mineralizer solutions and public water dispenser with cutting-edge performance, the Bluewater product lineup uniquely encompasses practically every ‘no substitute for excellence’ hydration need in a sustainable planet-friendly way.
For more information, please see below: https://www.bluewatergroup.com
Metsä Group celebrates sustainability successes at the 2025 Sustainability Awards
Metsä Group’s tissue paper business, Metsä Tissue, in partnership with the Cleaning & Services Support Association, has celebrated and recognised the cleaning and hygiene industry’s commitment to sustainability in its 2025 Sustainability Awards. Winners were announced an Awards dinner at The Pelligon in Canary Wharf, on 19th March 2025.
Metsä Tissue’s CEO, Sari Pajari-Sederholm, welcomed approximately 350 guests from more than 100 different organisations to the 2025 Sustainability Awards ceremony.
She paid tribute to the quality and the quantity of the Awards entries, saying that they represented an ambition, shared with Metsä Tissue, for an industry that operates responsibly “to help to create a positive, lasting impact on the environment.”
Mika Paljakka, Metsä Tissue SVP UK & Ireland, said that he had been, “overwhelmed by the interest the awards have generated” with 91 nominations for the Awards received from 46 separate organisations. He thanked Metsä Tissue’s event partner, the Cleaning and Support Services Association (CSSA), and the Awards sponsors, and urged attendees to generously support the Awards’ charity – The Hygiene Bank.
To announce the winners of the 2025 Sustainability Awards, Mika handed over to TV Naturalist Steve Backshall.
The Winners of the 2025 Sustainability Awards
Positive Climate Impact Award
(presented by John Doyle, Mayflower Washroom Solutions)
Winner – Landmarc Support Services Ltd with its ‘Clean, Green & Safe’ submission.
Other finalists:
● Altum Technologies Ltd
● Mindful Chef Ltd/Naked Sprout Ltd
Social Value Impact Award
(presented by Ross Osbourn, The Maintenance Supply Company)
Winner – Egal with its ‘Pads on a Roll’ submission.
Other finalists:
● No Going Back Cleaning and Support Services
● The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and NWL Procurement Services
Best Sustainability Marketing and Communication Initiative Award (presented by Paul Ashton, Cleaning & Services Support Association)
Winner – Bunzl Cleaning & Hygiene Supplies Ltd with its ‘Leveraging PowerBI’ submission.
Other finalists:
● Mitie Ltd
● The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Sustainable Collaboration Award (presented by Will O’Hagan, PVA Hygiene Ltd)
Winner – Chamberlaine Cleaning Services Ltd with its ‘Innovative ideas revolutionising the cleaning industry’ submission.
Other finalists:
● Birkin Group Ltd/Lime Supply Ltd
● Landmarc Support Services Ltd
New Sustainable Innovation Award (presented by Stephanie Neumann from Bunzl Cleaning and Hygiene Supplies)
Winner – Altum Technologies Ltd with its ‘Ultrasound solution for fouling prevention’ submission.
Other finalists:
● BioVate Hygienics Ltd
● Shaanxi ORCA Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. (ORCAUBOAT®)
And, for the Judges’ Choice Awards
Regional – Simply Washrooms (presented by Darren Broad from Nationwide Hygiene Group)
National – BioVate Hygienics Ltd (presented by Ollie Rastall from Source Supplies)
The winners of the CSSA Innovation Showcase Award were also recognised at the ceremony.
Metsä Tissue partnered with Planet Mark to ensure that the 2025 Sustainability Awards had a minimal carbon footprint. Held on the same day as the London Cleaning Show to minimise CO2 from travel, the Awards featured locally-sourced food, awards made from renewable raw materials from Metsä Wood, FSC-certified paper and Net Zero printing. The Pelligon is a plastic free venue.
Photographs from the 2025 Sustainability Awards will be available on the website after 20th March 2025 – www.2025sustainabilityawards.com
About the 2025 Sustainability Awards
The Sustainability Awards were founded in partnership with the Cleaning & Services Support Association (CSSA) in 2023 with the aim of shining a spotlight on sustainability across the cleaning and hygiene industry.
The 2025 Sustainability Awards ceremony was held at the Pelligon in Canary Wharf in London, on 19 March 2025. Its nominated charity is The Hygiene Bank – https://thehygienebank.com
For further information on the 2025 Sustainability Awards, please visit the website –www.2025sustainabilityawards.com – or contact Denise Nee by telephone on: 0845 601 8266 or by email at: denise.nee@metsagroup.com.
Metsä Group www.metsagroup.com/metsatissue
Rotech partners with industry leader LEIBINGER to expand coding & marking capabilities
Rotech is excited to announce a new partnership with LEIBINGER, a globally recognised manufacturer of advanced industrial coding systems. This collaboration marks a significant leap forward in Rotech’s commitment to delivering the best coding and marking solutions for every application, ensuring customers have access to the best technology for their needs.
Unlocking new possibilities with CIJ Technology
While Rotech’s range of Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) printers remains a trusted solution for many applications, the technology isn’t without its limitations – particularly on high-speed production lines or in harsh or changing environments. Continuous inkjet (CIJ) systems excel in these conditions, offering the perfect complement to Rotech’s portfolio and enabling a more versatile offering that meets every customer requirement.
LEIBINGER printers stand out for their innovation and meticulous craftsmanship. With 85% of manufacturing carried out in-house, LEIBINGER guarantees exceptional quality, making them a sound investment for businesses seeking long-term performance and reliability.
Introducing the IQJET: A new standard in CIJ printing
As part of the Rotech-LEIBINGER partnership, Rotech proudly introduces the IQJET, a revolutionary printer that redefines CIJ performance. Winner of the German Innovation Award 2024, the IQJET is the world’s first intelligent coding system, offering up to five years of service-free operation.
The IQJET boasts an impressive five years of servicefree operation, driven by its unique design and fully automatic nozzle seal technology - a signature feature of all LEIBINGER printers. No printhead cleaning, no routine maintenance, just reliable high-quality coding, day in and day out. With Plug & Print functionality, integration is effortless, enabling instant setup with no delays.
The SMART.EFFICIENCY system is another key feature that sets the IQJET ahead of the competition. By automatically adjusting parameters in real time, it optimises ink consumption, reduces waste, and enhances operational efficiency. This leads to cost reductions of up to 50% compared to traditional continuous inkjet (CIJ) systems. The system intelligently manages ink flow, ensuring that every drop is used effectively, while the IQJET’s ultra-low ink consumption and XXL cartridges, designed to empty completely, eliminate the need for separate disposal, making it a cost-efficient solution.
Focus Label Machinery Ltd
Focus Label Machinery Limited has been a leader in label printing machines since 1981. With over 40 years of experience, we design, manufacture, and install all types of label printing machines in-house, with training, servicing, spare parts, and consumables provided. Our range includes inline label printing machines, digital inkjet and toner printing machines, heat transfer printing machines, silk screen printing machines, rewinding machines and finishing equipment.
The AccurioLabel 230 digital toner press from Konica Minolta is available in the UK, through Focus Label Machinery – an Accredited Industrial Print Partner of Konica Minolta. This cutting-edge technology also perfectly
complements the Focus Reflex range of digital print finishing systems.
For digitally printed web, the Reflex 330 Digital Finishing System provides a fully comprehensive off-line finishing solution. The Reflex 330 re-register system is extremely accurate – even at speeds well over 100 metres per minute and includes the option for semi-rotary or full rotary converting for roll-to-roll or roll-to-sheet formats.
The versatile d-Flex digital hybrid press incorporates the latest HiQ 1800dpi high-speed, full-colour Konica Minolta inkjet technology (CMYK + W), which has been cleverly integrated into the existing Reflex servo press with in-line UV or LED flexo print heads, die-cutting, slitting and rewinding. High quality variable images can be overprinted in perfect register with UV or LED flexo ink, then converted & rewound – in a single pass with speeds up to 70 metres per minute.
A partnership built on innovation
The synergy between Rotech and LEIBINGER is driven by a shared vision: to deliver cutting-edge, reliable coding and marking solutions. By combining Rotech’s deep industry knowledge and consultative approach with LEIBINGER’s engineering excellence, the partnership empowers businesses to streamline operations and enhance productivity.
With CIJ printers now part of Rotech’s product range, customers can confidently select the right technology for their application, backed by Rotech’s trusted expertise and service.
Contact Rotech Machines Ltd, T 01707 393700 sales@rotechmachines.com www.rotechmachines.com
plus storage of job details for future retrieval and are said to make the e-Flex, the most effective, affordable servo-driven flexo/digital combination press in the marketplace today.
The latest e-Flex twin servo flexo press with automated pre-register functions can be specified with multiple drying options, including UV, LED, infra-red and chill rollers. The dual servo system provides single touch set ups, with minimal waste for conventional printing and can be combined with a digital module for variable data, text & images.
The touchscreen HMI operator controls provide a fully programmable digital platform,
The e-Flex incorporates top-loading print cylinders and quick-change print cartridges to reduce downtime and set-up wastage. A choice of ultra-efficient interstation drying systems enables much higher press speeds. The short web-path allows for a compact design, whilst still maintaining good accessibility for the operator and plenty of space for optional equipment. A rail system is available for overhead press options, including delam/relam, rotary cold foil transfer, silk screen, turn-bar, and multi-layer re-register laminating.
T +44 (0)1949 836223 admin@focuslabel.com www.focuslabel.com
L éclair Patisserie experiences growth with a Riggs Autopack depositor
Leeds based L éclair Patisserie was born from a passion of French cooking, especially the sweet side, and the realisation that everyone needs an eclair in their life. With a small team of pastry chefs all sharing the same obsession for French patisserie and perfection, L éclair Patisserie was born!
Their story began in lockdown. They took what was an old gym in West Leeds and converted it into a huge all singing, all dancing kitchen perfect for creating their patisserie. Then came the shop.
They wanted to bring a little bit of Paris to Leeds so got a real-life Frenchman (Frank the Machine) who could see their vision. Armed with a drill and a paintbrush, off he went waving his magic wand of wonder and created their little shop.
Since the early days of the little bakery shop, they’ve substantially grown and become a contract supplier producing 1,000’s of bespoke products each day for national hotel groups. Their skilled team create a huge variety of tarts, macarons, gateaux and cheesecakes to name just a few products each week on a bespoke basis to meet each client’s specific requests.
As production has grown over the years, they realised that to keep up with demand they would need to look at a suitable semi-automatic depositor. Co-founder Stephen Thompson approached depositor manufacturer Riggs Autopack to discuss their potential depositing requirements. The initial remit was to speed up their production process by accurately depositing their range of ambient temperature cake batters, directly into trays, with a nominal single deposit range of 3ml-40ml.
Following the initial enquiry, Riggs Autopack Technical Sales Engineer Neil Pygott visited their premises to discuss their requirements in person and review their range of products and containers. To meet their specific production needs, Riggs Autopack recommended their Model 1000 Series 1 Micro Depositor and supplied L éclair Patisserie with a free of charge depositor for a 2-week period to conduct comprehensive product trials.
Stephen Thompson said, “The support and guidance we received from Neil Pygott and Riggs Autopack was invaluable and perfect! We haven’t used depositors before and relied heavily upon their expert guidance. Within just a couple of days of running the machine in production, operators reported back how much easier and quicker the depositor had made their jobs. They loved it!”
They were astonished with the increased production speeds, depositing accuracy and product presentation. Consequently, L éclair Patisserie placed an order with Riggs Autopack for the Series 1 Micro Depositor.
The depositor has dramatically changed the company and transformed the cost of production; they are now producing 5 times the volume when compared to before the machine. 22 minutes of previous production
time is now only 4 minutes! By purchasing the depositor, it has also opened new doors and undertake many larger contracts that they would previously have not been able to fulfil.
Stephen Thompson added, “I contacted several companies that sell depositors, however from the first call to Riggs Autopack I knew these people had the experience, knowledge and support we would need in this new field to us.”
“At our first meeting there was no pressure to buy or ‘our machine is better than everyone else’s’ approach; they let the machine do the talking. Even on the set up of the trial machine, Neil Pygott and a service engineer came out to set up the machine and talked the team through every element.”
“The machine never left our premises. I called Neil and said send me an invoice, it’s staying! Buy this machine, it will save labour cost, portion costs, opens up NPD and the most important for me is ANYONE can use this machine…..and as a bonus you will get a great new friend called Neil.”
Application
Door for internal high traffic areas which require fast opening and closing operations.
Advantages
s System of automatic reinsertion of the fabric in case of impact by means of special zip style guide insertion.
s Class III wind resistance.
s Choice of curtain colours
s Time and cost savings.
s Easy and very fast installation, with front access to fixings and wiring.
s Easy regulation and programming.
s Low maintenance
s Choice of activation
– Movement detector
– Pull chord
– Remote fobs
– Induction loops
Maximum Dimensions
Opening width: Max 4m
Opening height: Max 3.5m
Optional features
s Single phase 1,200w Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).
s Additional or made-to-measure observation windows.
s White-lacquered frames.
s Flashing safety lights.
s Touchless push buttons (optionally integrated in guide).
s Touchless opening with 1-point laser motion sensor.
s IP65 motor
s Motor with special anti-corrosion protection.
s Extra turbo speed package.
Standard features
s Anodised aluminium lintel with brushes for sliding movement and high sealing performance, with cable housing (hidden cables with frontal access).
s Support panel, fixtures and screws in stainless steel.
s PVC fabric with high resistance interlaced nylon, weight 950g/m2, with transparent window 400 x 1,200mm.
s Guide system protected by special PE profile, with low friction co-efficient and better wear resistance than standard PE.
s Standard motor: 240V AC, IP54
s Door opening and closing speed: 1.5 m/s standard. Possibility of speed increase according to door dimensions (on request).
Hart’s Speedor Storms to the rescue
The call to Hart Door Systems was straightforward – a company was having problems with two suppliers of industrial doors and a third party had recommended Hart Door Systems as the best option as the alternative deliverer of the industrial doors which would resolve the problem.
Carl Crossman, Hart’s Project Manager, said the call was very much the part of a typical week at the forefront of manufacture of industrial/commercial industrial doors. “Because of our longstanding reputation as a major supplier of a wide range of industrial doors and the range of options we have, Hart is well placed to problem solve and deliver the very high standard of industrial doors necessary.”
Mr Crossman confirmed an immediate site visit was carried out and an instant order for two Speedor Storms was placed. Both doors have now been installed and the performance of both will be monitored with a view to replacing other doors on the site. “The response was extremely positive. The Storms are a very high standard of automatic industrial door, an essential part of Hart’s family of Speedor options.”
Mr Crossman added, “Typically clients are attracted to the rapid roll Storm
because of its robustness and exceptional wind resistance together with its energysaving potential as well as controlling internal temperatures and reducing escaping noise and odours. It is an incomparable industrial door product in high demand because of its robustness and exceptional wind resistance together with its energy-saving potential and other very important features.”
More about Speedor Storm
This rapid roll door is robust, low maintenance and delivers exceptional wind resistance in exposed areas. While its high-speed opening and closing action improve efficiency, the energysaving potential of this rapid roll door is high, controlling internal temperatures, escaping dirt, odours and noise.
Special features include; moisturecontrolled electrics, mechanical components shielded from dust and dirt, and a unique guide system offering exceptional wind resistance up to class 5 as defined by DIN EN 12424.
The high-performance exterior roller storm door is designed for frequent use in high traffic situations and constructed to withstand harsh environments.
Contact www.hartdoors.com
Union Industries helps Crown Lift Trucks overcome operational challenges with installation of high-speed Ramdoor
Union Industries, the UK’s leading manufacturer of bespoke industrial doors, has assisted Crown Lift Trucks in addressing multiple operational challenges with the installation of its cutting-edge high-speed Ramdoor.
Crown Lift Trucks, based in Warrington, faced several issues at its facility, including the need to segregate two adjoining units with different temperature requirements while allowing the movement of high-mast forklift trucks through a large opening.
To tackle these challenges, Union Industries produced a bespoke solution to accommodate the building configuration, ensuring the required opening height could be achieved without compromising functionality. Additionally, the limited space at high-level, between structural steel frames, posed a significant obstacle.
Since launching their UK operations in 1960, Crown Lift Trucks have become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of forklift and material handling equipment. Designing and manufacturing up to 85% of its forklift components, Crown provide their wide customer base with forklift rentals, servicing and maintenance, used equipment and a variety of support services.
The installation of the Ramdoor not only addressed the temperature control and safety concerns but also enhanced operational efficiency. Union
Industries designed the door to accommodate Crown Lift Trucks’ requirements while incorporating a pedestrian access door to segregate traffic flow, ensuring a safer working environment.
The Ramdoor features a dual height opening facility, allowing for optimal heat retention while accommodating different forklift sizes. Furthermore, the engineered seals and infills achieve a seamless finish, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
It has also been designed to achieve a Class 5 wind resistance rating, making it able to withstand strong winds and to remain operational even during severe weather conditions.
Achieving this rating is supported by a number of the Ramdoor’s features, including its thick Ramhide door curtain material, which is high frequency welded to give the strongest fabric joins available.
In addition, it features heavy-duty wind-brace and wind-bar systems for added strength, plus extra-deep side-guides, which all contribute to the Ramdoor’s ability to cope with high wind loads and pressures. Like other doors in the Union range, it also benefits from a ‘Crash Out’ facility, in case of vehicle or personnel impact to the bottom beam, thus ensuring minimal downtime and repair costs.
Alan Hirst, Sales Director at Union Industries, said, “We are delighted to have assisted Crown Lift Trucks in overcoming their operational challenges with our high-speed Ramdoor. This project highlights our ability to provide innovative solutions tailored to our customers’ specific needs.”
Mark Eccleston, Branch Manager, at Crown Lift Trucks, said, “Union Industries’ Ramdoor has revolutionised our operational efficiency and safety standards. Their dedication to understanding our unique requirements and delivering a bespoke solution underscores their commitment to customer satisfaction. The Ramdoor not only enhances temperature control and traffic segregation but also contributes to our sustainability goals. We are grateful for their expertise and partnership in achieving our objectives.”
CLEANING MATTERS
Kärcher UK announces Manchester as location for ground-breaking new Kärcher centre
Kärcher UK, a leading provider of cleaning solutions, is thrilled to unveil it has selected Manchester for its newest and largest Kärcher centre, which will open in October 2024. Building on the established Manchesterbased Kärcher Hire business, the 18,122 square foot, two-acre site, will house a new Kärcher centre, as well as Kärcher Hire’s new headquarters.
Kärcher Hire rents an extensive range of the latest Kärcher equipment and has grown to become one of the largest cleaning equipment hire companies in the UK. Building on its reputation for providing customers with best in class, fast and reliable service throughout the UK, they have outgrown their current base in Droylsden, Manchester. Kärcher Hire is set to supercharge its operations, continuing to expand their client base across the UK.
The Kärcher centre will be run by centre Manager Simon Barlow and will include a superb showroom that businesses and consumers alike are welcome to visit to discuss their cleaning headaches. A major focus will be servicing
professional businesses needs across the North West, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire.
With a distinctly Mancunian feel, the centre is set to offer unparalleled services to local businesses. The centre will provide full sales, lease, hire, maintenance, service and repair solutions, training facilities, showrooms with a variety of different floor types, and meeting rooms for businesses needing to discuss their cleaning needs.
The Kärcher team is also happy to visit business premises to complete site surveys, conduct product demonstrations and provide training – all designed to support companies in finding the right solutions to increase their operating efficiency. With an unrivalled
range of products available for purchase, lease and hire, the Kärcher team will provide the best solution offering the best fit for any business, commercially, practically and financially.
The announcement of the new Kärcher centre comes as the cleaning solutions provider continues to evolve and grow its offering, in the face of a business landscape in which cleaning and hygiene is more important than ever before.
Matthew Gellie, Head of Rental at Kärcher UK, commented, “Kärcher Hire has been working out of four depots across the UK for the last eight years, so we are thrilled to retain the dedicated staff from our Droylsden depot and to announce our headquarters in Chadderton. This expansion will undoubtedly supercharge our growth, doubling the size of our workshop and office space – giving us the ability to scale our operations.”
The new site will be located at: Unit 4, Oldham Broadway Business Park, Chadderton OL9 9XA.
For more information, please visit: www.kaercher.com/uk
The rise of robotics and automated dispensing within the food and beverage industry and how Quantex plays a part
what the output would be as there’s minimal risk of variation – this means KPIs and trends can be accurately tracked and monitored.
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is becoming more common, especially within the food and beverage industry which is undergoing a technological revolution. With this in mind, we’ve seen a rise in inquiries about how our Quantex pumps can seamlessly integrate with robotics and automatic dispensing machinery as manufacturers look for a way to drive innovation, streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and elevate the customer experience. From mass-produced readymeals, beverage makers, drink dispensing, and fastfood chains to fine dining establishments, businesses are increasingly turning to robotics and automated dispensing.
Why robotics and automated dispensing in the food and beverage industry?
Robotics aren’t a new concept, the first true industrial robot was created using the Meccano model construction system in the 1930s, however, in the early 2000s, humans started to digitally program industrial robots with artificial intelligence, which paved the way for the use of robotics in industry and manufacture.
These days, robotics and automated dispensing are starting to be seamlessly integrated into many forms of manufacture, specifically within the production of food and beverage for a variety of reasons, including:
● Increased efficiency: Robots can work tirelessly, 24/7, with minimal breaks or downtime and can significantly boost productivity.
● Improved consistency: Robotic systems deliver precise and consistent results, ensuring that every dish or drink made will meet the predetermined quality standards.
● Enhanced safety: Automation reduces the risk of accidents and injuries associated with repetitive tasks and handling hot surfaces.
● Cost reduction: While initial investment costs may be higher, long-term savings can be made through reduced labour expenses and minimised error or product waste.
● Customer satisfaction: Using robotics and automated dispensing means faster service times, consistent quality, and innovative food presentations which can lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
● Targeting KPIs and tracking: By using a system that promotes the same response repeatedly, it makes it easier for organisations to predict
How robotics and automated dispensing is transforming food and beverage dispensing Certain industries lend themselves easily to the rise of robotics and automated dispensing – the food and beverage industry being one of them. There is a whole range of potential applications including:
1) Automated dispensing machines: These machines are often found in convenience stores, petrol stations, and fast-food restaurants. They utilise robotics and automated dispensing by supplying a precise dispensing system to deliver a variety of food and beverage items quickly, without the need for human input.
2) Robotic cooks: Advanced robotic systems (such as the Moley, B-Air Kitchen) can prepare complex dishes, from curry, stir fry, pasta and even risotto, with remarkable precision and speed. It’s the ‘world’s first robotic chef and intelligent RFIDenhanced IoT kitchen system.’
3) Food delivery robots: Autonomous robots are being deployed to deliver food directly to customers, as operated in Milton Keynes by Starship Technologies. They have streamlined the delivery process and reduced labour costs.
4) Entertainment: Some restaurants and bars have started to ‘employ’ automated robotic bartenders, mainly as an aesthetic and to provide an additional layer of entertainment for their patrons. These bartenders can mix pre-set qualities of drink, mix and serve accurately.
5) Agriculture: Robots can plant, identify, and sort seeds. They can also assess crops and their habitats for disease, pests, or yield, and in some cases, provide a remedy to a potential problem e.g. spraying plants with pesticides should greenflies be discovered.
6) Food and drink packaging: When it comes to speed, efficiency and accuracy, robotics and automation dispensing machines are perfect – they can open, fill or dose, pack, seal, and label packages within seconds and at the ease of a button.
7) Food sanitation, preparation and processing: Especially within the food and beverage industry, sanitation of the product and equipment takes top priority to ensure the cleanliness and quality of the product. Robots and automated dispensing machines are being used as they can endure harsher environments than humans (such as staying within cold rooms where bacteria and infection can’t survive for prolonged periods). By guaranteeing efficient and accurate dosing, robotics and automated dispensing ensure any food
and beverage served is consistently at the correct measurement.
The role of Quantex Pumps in automated dispensing
Quantex pumps are already a critical component for many automated dispensing machines, including the Linstream/Cobell Juice Machine, Freshblends self-serve frozen beverages platform and can easily handle concentrates for post-mix soft and alcoholic drink dispensing machines.
Pumps without an integrated Quantex pump, however, often come with multiple pain points due to the upkeep required of the robotics and automated dispensing machines themselves as discussed in our blog ‘Top 10 Business Benefits of Refillable Drinks and Bulk-refill.’
Managing thick viscous products in the food and beverage industry
Quantex pumps are particularly recognised for their ability to handle highly viscous solutions (including melted chocolate, condiments (i.e. ketchup and mayonnaise) and yoghurt) In fact, the Quantex QX25-HP pump can pull an impressive -7 psig vacuum and revolutionises the positioning of the disposable pump in relation to the liquid packs (the pump can often be positioned above, below, to the side) keeping the same level of viscous suction power.
The video shows Quantex dispensing extremely viscous Nivea cream: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uMeXor0pls
Here is a Quantex Bag In Box Eco HighSpeed Pump dispensing viscous Ketchup and Mayonnaise: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=QThfw5a_vhI
The future of the foodservice
As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of robotics and automated dispensing within the food and beverage industry. From fully automated kitchens to personalised dining experiences and consumer-controlled dosing, the possibilities are endless. By embracing automation and leveraging advanced technologies like Quantex pumps, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and deliver exceptional food, drinks and service.
If you’d like to discuss how a Quantex pump could work for you, please visit: https://www.psgdover.com, email: quantex-info@psgdover.com or call: +49 (2065) 89205-0.
Did you know Euroby has been supplying equipment to a broad range of food and drink applications for over 15 Years?
Euroby is the exclusive UK supplier of Polat separation equipment for the Food and Beverage markets.
The foodstuffs industry offers many applications for mechanical separation and the Polat centrifuges that Euroby offer are in manufactured accordance with international quality standards and expectations of the UK market.
Euroby centrifuges are established at the heart of many process lines worldwide. They are used in dairy processes and are efficient and economical for the separation of milk, cream, whey, yoghurt, quark, fresh cheese together with bacterial removal and butter making.
Euroby centrifuges work well in wine and beer clarification achieving products with consistent taste.
Our centrifuges are specially designed for
each application and are economical and efficient.
We also supply centrifuges which also provide separation solutions for both plant and animal proteins with 2 and 3 phase solutions operating in meat and fish applications.
Euroby centrifuges are also used to process food product waste streams, recovering product, reducing environmental impact and generate savings in overall effluent costs.
We offer:
● High-performance separation
● High-value products
● Reduced waste management costs
● Low energy consumption and carbon footprints
● Low maintenance costs
● Low capital cost.
Interested? Email Lee Blake at Euroby on: lblake@euroby.com, call: 01903 694400 or visit: www.euroby.com
Reliable & scalable: Gellert freeze dryers are perfect for regulated food production
In today’s global environments where disruption to supply chain might have a significant impact on perishable goods, there has been a noticeable shift by manufacturers and consumers alike, toward the freeze-dried product market. The primary reason being, from a manufacturer perspective, freeze drying can help remove the need for cold chain transportation, therefore lowering cumulative costs to transport products. Freeze-dried material is also much lighter than a frozen or refrigerated alternative, which again facilitates a reduction in manufacturer transportation cost.
In addition, freeze drying can expand the reach of the product to potential consumers or end-users in more remote locations where storing product in fridges/freezers during transportation, may not have been possible.
From a consumer perspective, dried products are being preferred to cold chain alternatives because it takes less energy and cost to store before use which leads to overall a lower cost per product, accompanied by an extended shelf life.
As the name suggests, to initiate the process of freeze drying a product must first be frozen and dried by removing the majority of the water that exists within the product naturally. This can be done either at production source using a dedicated freezer during the initial processing, or in-situ of the freeze dryer in a more controlled and repeatable manner, through close contact with the shelves.
While external freezing can reduce the time required to cool product, and theoretically reducing the total freeze drying cycle time, the controlled nature of in-situ freeze drying directly on the shelves can have benefits of its own. For example, ensuring product samples maintain their shape, structure and nutritional value, because controlled and repeatable freezing and then drying on the shelves, through an optimised recipe helps samples to maintain their biological integrity and structure. It is an efficient way of preserving products without significantly denaturing proteins, meaning that the freezedried product is nutritionally as good as the raw
alternative, when reconstituted and inherently safer to handle that in its raw form.
For this reason, Biopharma Group offers to the UK, and Europe the Gellert series of food production freeze dryers, developed for the regulated food, dairy, and nutraceuticals production industries. The versatility of Gellert freeze dryers, made them very popular in the industry due to the development of a range with ease of scale-up, user requirements and operation in mind. For example, the most delicate foods or ones possessing higher brix values/sugar or salt content, may demand processing at lower temperatures to minimise the risk of altering their structure, appearance, or taste and Gellert have designed a Low Temperature model that will accommodate this requirement from the industry.
Other beneficial features that have be designed for inclusion with Gellert equipment include:
● AutoDry which is an intuitive feature that allows users the opportunity to input their desired temperature differential between the product/ sample itself, and the shelves. This ensures the sample can be dried using the AutoDry feedback mechanism, helping to optimise drying cycles, and enable a smooth drying process to occur.
● The chamber,
condenser, shelves, and shelf stack can all also be constructed from 316L stainless steel, should this be desired from a product contact, perspective.
● A hybrid cooling system can also be integrated on the larger equipment to utilise defrost water by re-heating via the freeze dryer compressors, and then re-using to assist in the defrost of ice built up within the condenser – an effective energy and cost saving approach.
● SCADA is also possible, from a secured software perspective of the freeze dryers, which can become an important element at the pilot and production scale.
Gellert is a world respected, specialist manufacturer of freeze drying equipment, with over 40 years in the industry. Over this period, Gellert has accrued a high level of practical experience and in-house expertise, developing an array of different models and configurations to satisfy a broad range of industrial purposes.
Common applications that utilise Gellert freeze dryers are used for include:
● Smart Foods such as supplements and nutraceuticals
● Food and Beverages including coffee beans, meat, fish and even honey to mention a few
● Dairy Products such as infant formula, yoghurt drinks, dried milks, lactoferrin and cheese
● Fruits and Vegetables e.g. strawberries, wine grapes, even olive oils
● Pet Food and Pet Treats
As the exclusive distributor of Gellert freeze dryers across the UK, Ireland and France, contact Biopharma Group’s product specialists to discuss your requirements or request more information
T +44 (0)1962 841092 bps@biopharma.co.uk https://biopharma.co.uk
from manufacturer Deliver anywhere in the UK Tel 02887 784345 or email anthony.conroy@mackleapple.com
Purchase online or find a stockist near you www.bodyandmindbotanicals.com
Personalised bespoke packaging solutions for a range of speciality food sectors: Confectionery, Dairy, Bakery, Delicatessen & Fish
Get in touch 01606 354664 sales@bartecpackaging.co.uk www.bartecpackaging.co.uk
Machines for Food
Uniball Tumbler Mixer
Ideal for flapjack mixes and fragile products
Capacity 225 litres, 316 stainless steel drum, variable speed
The machines have been sold to clients using a range of different products as coating vegetables in oil, mixing medical powders, Bakery recipes, flapjack mix, mixing different nut types, marinating meat with sauces, mixing coffee beans, food ingredients, coating olives in flavours, flavours on nuts, pasta & mayo. Sold worldwide to USA, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Iceland and Europe. 01761 410345 | 01761 410332 sales@machines4food.co.uk www.machines4food.co.uk
