January/February 2019

J a n u a ry / F e bru a ry 2019

The magazine for the frozen food industry

ANNUAL LUNCHEON ANNUAL LUNCHEON Event roundup Event roundup

A COMMUNITY EFFORT THE STORY BEHIND THE STATS Interview with John Marren Feature

INTO THESTEPHEN DEEP FREEZE WAUGH Feature Interview

From our kitchen to yours.

We provide authentic tasting dishes from all around the world. From our kitchen to yours, every single dish we create is unique. To find out more visit mealcreations.co.uk

ď‚™ ď…­

@mealcreations mealcreations

Part of

The Bulletin

BRITISH FROZEN FOOD FEDERATION

John Hyman Chief executive

Registered office: Warwick House, Unit 7, Long Bennington Business Park, Main Road, Long Bennington, Newark NG23 5JR.

WELC O ME

A company limited by guarantee.

Registered in England and Wales No: 7687541

01400 283090 www.bfff.co.uk CHIEF EXECUTIVE John Hyman HEAD OF COMMERCIAL & SPONSORSHIP Paul Murray paulmurray@bfff.co.uk 07718 588431 ADVERTISING & MEMBERSHIP Kate Miller katemiller@bfff.co.uk 07793 499871

A very warm welcome to the January/ February edition of the Bulletin.

Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our members and colleagues within the frozen food industry a very happy and successful New Year.

PUBLISHER

2018 was a brilliant year for the UK frozen food market, an £8.6bn industry growing at 5% year on year, and the fastest growing food category within retail and ahead of both chilled and ambient. I expect significant future innovation in premium quality, natural health and frozen being part of the solution on food waste. Thank you for the fantastic response to the new and existing categories for our Product Awards and Gala Dinner in June.

Pelican Communications www.pelicancommunications.co.uk

The forthcoming annual business conference is looking at the future of our industry in 2025. Followed by the People Awards, it will be one of the highlights of the year on February 7th, so please book your place ASAP. Our new marketing campaign ‘Fresh from the Freezer’ is terrific, so please take full advantage of this and share with colleagues to amplify its success over the next few months.

IN THE NEXT ISSUE...

We’re delighted with our 11 member benefits that our members can take advantage of. They include three new services around minimising frozen waste, saving significant amounts of money on energy and business tax advice. See page 45 for more information.

From the land- Meat, fruit and veg To contribute to this issue or advertise, contact your account manager or email: bulletineditorial@bfff.co.uk

During this period of significant uncertainty around Brexit, I’ll ensure the key issues and opportunities are understood by Government. We also have a Brexit legal helpline and enhanced information services from Dodds to support members.

Go online The Bulletin is the exclusive magazine for BFFF members. Printed six times a year, it has a readership in excess of 3,000 industry leaders, decision makers and buyers.

I’d like to thank Claire and Crystal for their contribution during their time with BFFF and give a warm welcome to George, Siobhan and Carla who have joined the team.

I wish you all a very prosperous 2019 and look forward to seeing you at our conference, People Awards and IFE.

The Bulletin is available to read online at www.bfff.co.uk/about-bfff/bulletin – where you can also read all the latest news from BFFF and its members.

1

The Bulletin

CON TEN TS

Bulletin THE

The magazine for the frozen food industry

IN THE NEXT ISSUE

04 BFFF NEWS

From the Land

Meat, Fruit & Veg To request the brief for this issue contact: bulletineditorial@bfff.co.uk

06

To advertise contact: katemiller@bfff.co.uk

MEMBER NEWS

Advertising Deadline: 1st February 2019 To request a Media Pack or submit your company/product news contact: bulletineditorial@bfff.co.uk

COMING UP:

35

May/June Sweets & Treats July/August Coverage of our Gala Dinner & Product Awards

ANNUAL LUNCHEON 2

The Bulletin

22

BUSINESS CONFERENCE PROGRAMME

13

23

NEW PRODUCTS

SAVE THE DATES

53

PEOPLE AWARDS SHORTLIST

45

MEMBER BENEFITS

60

IFE FEATURE

63

GALA DINNER & PRODUCT AWARDS

17

INDUSTRY SERVICES

31

32

58

TECHNICAL& LEGISLATIVE

INTERVIEW: STEPHEN WAUGH

25 49

FEATURE: FREE FROM MEANS FREEDOM

NEW MEMBER PROFILES

64

HEALTH & SAFETY 3

DIARY DATES

The Bulletin

BFF F NE WS

Updates from BFFF team

Registration BFFF launches new digital campaign to boost is now open further frozen growth for IFE 2019 A new promotional campaign funded by BFFF members is set to boost the £8.6bn frozen food category.

Launched to coincide with Christmas, Fresh From the Freezer is a digital campaign consisting of a series of six short films. Each one highlights surprising meals that can be made with ingredients ‘fresh from the freezer’.

The six-month campaign aims to showcase frozen food to reach over three million consumers and target new chefs. The films will be promoted via a range of social media channels.

The films include a festive roast dinner, a Thai green prawn curry, breakfast pastries, fruit smoothies, gourmet steak and lobster, plus show-stopping desserts.

John Hyman, chief executive of the British Frozen Food Federation, said: “The videos

showcase amazing looking and surprising food that’s made fresh from the freezer, smashing the myths that frozen is inferior in quality and appeal to fresh.

Registration is now open for the International Food & Drink Event (IFE), which is returning to ExCeL London from 17–20 March 2019.

“This is another sign of confidence in the frozen food market which has remained the most buoyant part of the grocery sector. In the last 12 months, frozen has achieved a market growth of 5%, putting frozen foods ahead of both chilled and ambient.”

With 1,350 cutting-edge food & drink manufacturers attending from 111 countries, IFE He added: “Our members continue to 2019 is one of the only places BFFF members innovate, add premium quality products and can experience the best of what the food & build awareness of the convenience and reduced food waste that frozen delivers. We’re drink industry has to offer across the globe. confident these factors will continue to drive This year’s event will have a dedicated frozen growth, supported by our new campaign.” food area, showcasing pioneering brands that are shaking up the sector, such as Lickalix organic, free-from ice lollies and a new vegan frozen curry range from Spiced by Rayeesa.

Co-located with Pro2Pac, the food & drink processing & packaging event, the joint festival will provide a comprehensive snapshot of the food & drink industry, offering fresh inspiration for BFFF members.

For more information on IFE 2019 and to register for free please visit: https://ife-2019visitor.reg.buzz/bfff

Three new and exclusive BFFF Member Benefits added to the collection….

We are delighted to introduce further exclusive, industry-focused and time sensitive member benefits. They have been added to the already extensive range and were presented during our Industry Forum at JLT offices in London in November.

Our new strategic partners presented details of the services and helplines to nearly 100 delegates and these include a new energy, brokerage and consultancy service from FEC Energy, one of the UK’s leading energy consultancies, working with commercial businesses, government departments and manufacturers.

addition to the existing HR support service and HR online library of over 400 downloadable documents provides a truly invaluable free resource for BFFF members.

We will be available with our strategic partners to answer any questions about the complete range of the current 11 member benefits at the BFFF Business Conference in February and at IFE in March.

Also, a great solution to help to reduce food waste within our industry, we are working with Company Shop, the UK’s largest redistributor of surplus food & FMCG products with over 40 years’ experience helping retailers and manufacturers stop good food go to waste.

Please see page 32 for full details including helpline telephone numbers so you can start using these services straight away and make full use of your exclusive member benefits.

And we have further enhanced the already popular and well used benefit from Quest (formally Qdos) by adding a free tax advice service giving unlimited access to experienced tax and VAT advisors. This

For further information on any of our benefits contact stevepocock@bfff.co.uk 4

The Bulletin

B FFF N EWS Updates from BFFF team

Annual General Meeting results

Our members, including proxy votes, unanimously voted to re-elect our Chair and Board of Directors at the AGM held on Tuesday 20th November 2018.

They also approved the adoption of the annual accounts and both the Chairman’s and the Chief Executive’s report. Our auditors, Smethurst & Co were also re-elected for the next year.

Our Chair, Nigel Broadhurst of Iceland Foods Ltd has now served his first year as Chairman and thanked everyone for their support as we look forward to new opportunities for the year ahead.

The BFFF Board

Chair of the Board & Retailer Representative Nigel Broadhurst, Iceland

Producer Representative Karen McQuade, The UK Foodhall

Wholesaler Representative Producer Representative Wayne Hudson, Stuart Smith, Birds Eye Brakes Audit Committee Helen Wright, Finance Director, Arco Ltd. Ali Hannaford, Chairman and Director, Paramount 21 Ltd. Chloe Frankish, Finance Operations, Smith & Nephew John Young, Finance Director, Dawnfresh Seafoods Ltd. H&S Expert Group Vince Craig, Director, Meadowbrae Technical Services Ltd. Mark Lovett, Group Health & Safety & Environment Manager, Apetito Ltd. David Morgan, Health, Safety and Environment Manager, ASDA Stores Ltd. Paul Duncalf, Head of Health & Safety, Brakes UK Bryan Atkinson, BU EHS Manager - Poultry, Cargill Meats Europe

Producer Representative Ian Stone, Apetito

Wholesaler Representative Wholesaler Representative Andrew Roberts, Nick Redford, Bidfood Caterforce

Chair of T&L Expert Group Vince Craig c/o McEvoy Foods International

Chair of Audit Committee Helen Wright Arco Ltd.

Dave Penson, H&S, Environment, & Energy Manager, Young's Seafood Ltd.

Todd Hallam, EHS Director, Chalcroft Construction Aaron Scandrett, UK Group Health, Safety & Environment Manager, Froneri UK Ltd.

Technical & Legislative Expert Group

Robert Ironmonger, Health, Safety and Environmental Manager, Greenyard Frozen UK Ltd.

Vince Craig, Director, Meadowbrae Technical Services Ltd.

Paul Rhodes, Group SHE Manager, Greggs Plc.

Ian Mortimer, Group Technical Manager, Apetito Ltd.

Neil Walker, H&S, and Quality Manager, Heron Foods Ltd.

Philip Proud, European Technical Director, Avara Foods

Stephen Dean, H&S Manager, Iceland Foods Ltd.

Angela O’Donovan, Director of Technical Services, Bidfood

Simon Aldous, H&S Manager, Moy Park Ltd.

Sandra Brand, European Head of Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Birds Eye Ltd.

Clare Crompton (McMahon), H&S and Enviro Manager, The Authentic Food Company Ltd.

Ken Glauch, Head of Technical, Booker Ltd.

Dennis Futty, Quality Assurance Manager, Three Oceans Ltd.

Gerry Thomas, Technical Director, Brakes

Adrian Cooper, Quality, H&S, and Enviro Manager, XPO Logistics

Su Dakin, Technical & Development Manager – IND Division, Cargill Meats Europe 5

Chief Executive John Hyman, BFFF

Michael Alcorn, Technical Manager, Creative Foods Europe Graham Christy, Group Technical Director, Froneri UK Ltd. Daryl Hurley, Technical Controller, Greencore Grocery Leeds Tim Homewood, UK Technical Manager, Greenyard Frozen UK Ltd. Ashleigh Moore, Regulatory Affairs Manager, Greggs Plc. Emma Meredith, Food Legislation Manager, Iceland Foods Ltd. Janet Williams, Technical Manager, Kent Frozen Foods Ltd. Simon Derrick, Senior Technical Manager, Three Oceans Ltd. Scott Johnston, Technical Director, Young's Seafood Ltd.

The Bulletin

M EM BER NE W S Updates from BFFF members

Chris Tyas is new GS1 UK chair

GS1 UK, the not-for-profit standards organisation, has appointed former global head of supply chain for Nestlé SA, Chris Tyas as its new chair.

Chris joins GS1 UK after his retirement, following 36 years with the world’s largest food and drinks company.

He is a former vice chairman of GS1 UK and more recently, the co-chair of the Consumer Goods Forum group, helping to shape the organisation’s Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative.

He said: “I am honoured to take this role in GS1 UK at such a pivotal time for the organisation. It is a body and team I have had the greatest respect for over the years.” ● www.gs1uk.org

Helping you buy, generate and save energy

FEC Energy canhelp you with everything from buying and selling energy through to securing new connections and upgrades, wayleaves, energy regulation, compliance and energy efficiency.

With a history spanning 50 years and a wealth of experience we are well placed to provide advice and support for our clients, Government departments, industry organisations, utility companies and manufacturers. BFFF members are now able to benefit from our skills and knowledge to reduce energy costs and consumption within their business. Examples of these services are:

• • • • •

Energy efficiency auditing and advice ESOS (Energy savings and opportunities scheme compliance) Renewable energy compliances Climate Change Levy advice and compliance Combined Heat and Power opportunities

● www.fec-energy.co.uk

Icefresh Foods scoops awards

Icefresh Foods, specialists in developing licensed desserts and own label products, is celebrating after taking home four awards at the Quality Food Awards.

The company, which has been developing frozen and chilled foods for the UK’s top retailers for more than 35 years, scooped four awards for some of its latest frozen innovations.

They include winning the Desserts & Pastry category for its on-trend Asda Extra Special 12 Macaron Selection, which is made using only the finest ingredients and flavours and the Handheld Ice Cream award for its Co-op 4 Rainbow Uni-Cones, which tap into the unicorn craze, blending a colourful combination of vanilla and raspberry ice cream topped with rainbow coloured rice balls.

Also within the Ice Cream category, Icefresh

took home the Healthy Options award for its Leone Al!ve product, the first protein on a stick ice lolly to be sold in the UK. Finally, Icefresh finished off the night winning the Frozen Sweet Party Food award for its festive Iceland 6 Decorate Your Own Rudolph Macarons, which sees raspberry macarons supplied along with all the sweet treats you need to turn your macaron into everyone’s favourite reindeer.

Renowned throughout the industry for its rigorous and stringent judging process, the Quality Food Awards is judged by a 50-strong panel of respected food experts from across the industry. ● www.icefresh-foods.co.uk

Jonathan Lee Recruitment partners with the Future of British Manufacturing Initiative Manufacturing and engineering employment specialist, Jonathan Lee Recruitment has become a core partner of the Future of British Manufacturing Initiative (FoBMI).

David Woakes, group business development manager at Jonathan Lee Recruitment, said: “We’re very aware of the challenges facing manufacturers today, specifically the need to embrace digital initiatives and new technology and the impact this has on their people.

“We’re delighted to be working with the

6

Future of British Manufacturing Initiative to support businesses navigating these changes and preparing themselves, and their employees, for the future.” ● www.jonlee.co.uk

The Bulletin

M EM B ER N E WS Updates from BFFF members

Lantmännen Thomas Ridley responds to non-alcoholic drinks trend Unibake expands in Australia A change in consumer behaviour is driving a huge surge in the sales of non-alcoholic beverages and none more so than the ‘holy grail’ of a nonalcoholic beer that actually tastes good.

International bakery group, Lantmännen Unibake, has signed an agreement to acquire Australian pastry manufacturer, Bakery Du Jour.

In response Thomas Ridley Foodservice has ranged the Suffolk-based micro-brewery, St Peter’s, Without® Gold.

Shane Fazackerley, category manager for wines, beers, cider and spirits said: “This is an amazing beer that will appeal to a nation of ale drinkers who love a good, full-bodied golden ale, as well as lager drinkers looking for a delicious alcohol-free beer.

The acquisition is a key step to expand Lantmännen Unibake’s global footprint.

“Without® Gold is made in exactly the same way as a traditional beer, just without the alcohol, and consumers can expect a full-bodied pint, with a good head and delicious taste.”

Family-owned Bakery Du Jour was founded more than 20 years ago and is a leading supplier of premium pastry products to major Australian retailers as well as food service customers. Bakery Du Jour employs around 90 people and is located in Melbourne, Australia.

St Peter's Without® Gold is available in 500ml bottles and on tap and complements Thomas Ridley’s existing range of draught and bottled beer and cider. ● www.thomasridley.co.uk

Since 2006, Lantmännen Unibake has been successfully exporting pastry products to the Australian market. The acquisition of Bakery Du Jour now supports Lantmännen Unibake’s growth with locally produced products.

Werner Devinck, CEO of Lantmännen Unibake, said: “Bakery Du Jour has a strong, customer-focused company culture with highly engaged people, an attractive market position as well as business model. Building on our passion for businesses further and continuing to deliver great results.” ● www.lantmannen-unibake.com

In my

VIEW with

Dr. Alison Tedstone

Public Health England has launched a new Change4Life campaign to help families cut back on sugar, as it is revealed that 10 year olds in the UK have consumed 18 years’ worth of sugar.

While children’s sugar intakes have declined slightly in recent years, they are still consuming around eight excess sugar cubes each day, equivalent to around 2,800 excess sugar cubes per year.

Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist at PHE, said: “Children are consuming too much sugar, but parents can take action now to prevent this building up over the years. To make this easier for busy families, Change4Life is offering a straight-forward solution – by making simple swaps each day, children can have healthier versions of everyday foods and 7

drinks, while significantly reducing their sugar intake.

“Families are encouraged to look for the Change4Life ‘Good Choice’ badge in shops, download the free Food Scanner app or search Change4Life to help them find lower sugar options.”

In May 2018, PHE published progress against the first-year sugar reduction ambition of 5%, which showed an average of 2% reduction in sugar across categories for retailers and manufacturers.

While breakfast cereals and yoghurts and fromage frais were among the categories meeting or exceeding the 5% ambition, some products in these categories are still high in sugar – this is why Change4Life is making it easier for parents to find lower-sugar options.

The Bulletin

M EM BER NE W S Updates from BFFF members

Midlands security firm CEO FAST celebrated in top 100 NEWS

GMS Group of Companies CEO Neil Male has been named one of the 100 Faces of a Vibrant Economy by Grant Thornton.

Grant Thornton is one of the UK’s largest professional services firms. Its Faces of a Vibrant Economy celebrates leaders from across the public, private and third sectors who exemplify what it takes to develop a vibrant economy.

Oakland appoints distress load technical lead team manager Family business, multi temperature supply chain and logistics specialist, Oakland International, has appointed Eimear Scolard as the company’s new technical team lead.

Since becoming CEO of GMS Group of Companies in 2005, Neil has grown the Bromsgrove-based security business from £2.3m to £14m. GMS now employs over 500 staff nationally with clients including Jaguar Land Rover, Cemex, TUI, VAX, Aston Martin & Kerry Foods.

Tasked with heading the successful Distress Load Team, Eimear will oversee inspections, co-ordinating the team from initial contact through to load completion.

He said: “I’m very proud to be nominated as one of Grant Thornton’s 100 Faces of a Vibrant Economy.

It’s a great honour, not only for myself but for the whole of the GMS team who all play a part in delivering innovative security solutions to our customers. To be recognised in our 20th anniversary year is also a great achievement.”

Sampling for food safety seminar

The Faces of a Vibrant Economy are selected from across the UK and represent diverse sectors and industries. They include business leaders, entrepreneurs, local government innovators and third sector trailblazers – recognised for their commitment to developing an economy that enables people, organisations and communities to flourish. ● www.gms-group.co.uk

Another 30 bespoke refrigerated semi-trailers for Reed Boardall Reed Boardall Group is continuing its rolling fleet upgrade programme having ordered another 23 single deck semi-trailers plus seven double deck trailers as part of its 300-strong trailer fleet.

Supplied by the company’s nominated trailer partner, Fraserburgh-based vehicle manufacturer Gray & Adams, the 13.6m tri axle trailers have been built to Reed Boardall’s specifications to meet the particular needs of its individual customers.

With a total value of £2m, all of the new trailers are equipped with Carrier Vector 1550 or 1950 refrigeration units as well as satellite tracking for constant monitoring of the location and temperature of the vehicles in line with Reed Boardall’s stringent quality control procedures.

In addition, the double deck trailers feature super single 445 wheels and tyres for improved stability and significantly enhanced tyre wear. ● www.reedboardall.com

8

This seminar, on 19 March, will look at practical approaches and issues associated with sampling in the food industry. It will cover sampling for microorganisms and chemical and food safety, as well as how sampling applies to food safety systems.

This seminar will benefit those involved in obtaining and evaluating the safety and quality of food and drink production. Our training team will be happy to help with any enquiry on +44(0)1386 842104 or at training@campdenbri.co.uk

Unicarriers Europe appoints new executive New face in the European top management: UniCarriers Europe AB, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Logisnext, appoints the Swede Jonas Tornerefelt as executive vice president (EVP) sales & marketing.

He succeeds Bengt Kristiansson in this position, who is retiring.

The Bulletin

M EM B ER N E WS

Updates from BFFF members

Savona Foodservice achieves renowned BRC accreditation in Storage & Distribution. operations teams, it is likely that there is going to be much more news from Savona Foodservice in the near future.

Savona Foodservice has been awarded BRC AA standard at both Oxford and Ilfracombe depots, an achievement that the company is extremely proud of as it moves to headline the future of the foodservice industry.

● www.savona.co.uk

This news follows an eventful two years at Savona Foodservice, which has included the acquisition of Ilfracombe Wholesale Grocers by Savona Provisions and the implementation of a complete rebrand.

Through modern-day thinking, enthusiasm and growing reputation, Savona Foodservice is fast-achieving premium status in the industry, as it continues to offer quality products, food safety, supply chain and customer service.

Mike Morgan, director and general manager at the Oxford depot said: “AA standard isn’t just another accreditation, it is an external recognition of the investment that we have made to achieve the highest possible quality assurances.”

Receiving BRC AA at both depots offers assurance and confidence to both existing and future customers.

With online ordering now in the customer pilot stage, rumours of geographical expansion and new staff being added to sales and

Food Sector Lawyers info@1cold.com www.1cold.com

Call us today on 01564 702269 Specialists in the Design, Project Management and Construction of Hygienic, Fire Rated and Temperature Controlled Environments

• Contracts • Debt recovery • Product recalls • Agents and distributors • Employment • Intellectual property and branding • Transport and logistics • Competition • Corporate and commercial Contact Peter Cusick or Peter Seary of our Food and Drink team

01775 842500 INDUSTRIAL CHILLERS / COLD ROOMS / COLD STORES

9

www.roythornes.co.uk @roythornes_food

The Bulletin

M EM BER NE W S Updates from BFFF members

Year of rapid growth for Erudus

We are AJAX safe access

An online platform providing the foodservice industry with instant access to food product data has increased its users by 180% in the past 12 months.

Erudus has also added Brakes Foodservice, which supplies caterers across the UK, to its growing list of wholesalers signed up to the platform.

Erudus has experienced significant growth in the last year including seeing the number of users benefiting from accessing the nutritional and allergen data grow from 10,000 to just under 90,000.

A planned update will include 250,000 product images being made available to download for marketing material, price lists, e-commerce sites, and mobile ordering apps, where integrations are in place. ● www.erudus.com

British designed and engineered fail safe protection products for workers

In addition, the number of wholesalers signed up has increased from 42 in 2016 to 117, while the number of manufacturers entering data has more than doubled from 1,135 to 2,748 in the same period. The number of products has also grown from 28,083 to more than 60,000 in two years.

Pallet gate safety barriers • Folding & mobile access steps Platforms and industrial staircases • Bridging access platforms Call: +44 (0) 115 986 6321 | Email: ajax@canalengineering.eu.com www.ajax.eu.com

MADE IN BRITAIN

Macphie welcomes new CEO

Scottish food ingredient manufacturer Macphie has announced that Andy Stapley has joined the company as chief executive officer (CEO).

Most recently managing director at Kensey Foods in Cornwall, Andy has over 15 years board-level experience with major FMCG organisations including Marine Harvest ASA, Youngs Seafood and 2 Sisters Food Group.

Waste Works Wonders!

Company Shop, the UK’s largest redistributor of food and household products, was on hand to prevent perfectly good food from going to waste following the successful BFFF Annual Product Awards.

He said: “I’m hugely excited about joining Macphie, an ambitious and respected business that is committed to growth.

Ten pallets of food from the awards were donated to Community Shop, the social supermarket founded by Company Shop in 2013. Based in some of the most low-income communities across the UK, Community Shop offers food access to those who need it most but can afford it least. Revenues raised from the enterprise are used to deliver professional, personal development programmes supporting members to live fulfilling lives, building stronger individuals and more confident communities.

“Macphie has the potential to match its ambition and I’m tremendously optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead.”

Born and raised in Glasgow, Andy’s early career was in mechanical engineering with Rolls Royce.

He then moved into an FMCG sales & marketing career in the food industry, before taking on operational and general management roles.

He has significant international experience, leading a number of change strategies in China, south-east Asia and India.

Andy succeeds Andy Underwood, who was the first managing director from outside the Macphie family on his appointment in April 2014. ● www.macphie.com 10

Jane Marren, Company Shop managing director, said: “Every day, we help organisations within the supply chain to avoid waste by redistributing products through Company Shop or Community Shop. We’re delighted we could support the BFFF in this instance and we look forward to helping BFFF members to avoid needless food waste by working with us too.”

Call Company Shop’s Surplus Hotline 0845 697 0458 to find out more. ● www.companyshop.co.uk

The Bulletin

M EM B ER N E WS

Updates from BFFF members

25th Annual Country Range Student Chef Challenge Launches

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Country Range Student Chef Challenge has officially launched for 2019.

Run in collaboration with the Craft Guild of Chefs, the challenge has played a huge role in developing young chefs and talent around the UK for a quarter of a century.

As part of the prize for this special anniversary year, the winning team will be offered a day’s work experience placement at a Michelinstarred restaurant. They will also be taken on a foodie tour of London, including a guided tour of the capital’s famous Billingsgate Market, where they will be taught fish filleting skills by the resident master fishmonger.

To win the much sought-after title, teams of three students will be required to plan, prepare and execute a three-course, four-cover menu in 90 minutes.

The latest challenge focusses on the essential core skills and techniques studied on a second year professional cookery course and will test students’ knowledge of both classical cooking and the more modern methods of the last 25 years. ● www.countryrangestudentchef.co.uk

Caterforce announces changes to buying policy in 2019

MICHAEL WARD L I M I T E D

FLEET REFRIGERATION SERVICES

YOU CAN

RELY ON!

Leading foodservice buying & marketing group, Caterforce, has announced that it plans to extend its buying policy in 2019 so it can continue to work towards an environmentally and socially responsible future for its members, suppliers and end customers.

JOBS CARRIED OUT

ROUTINE SERVICES

COMPLETED

Call us today on: 01204 669 247 www.michaelwardonline.co.uk Follow us:

Its updates will include a number of significant changes to ingredients, animal welfare, plastic and palm oil. The updates will be made in close partnership with its seven members to ensure the changes are sustainable.

8,991 REPAIRS

CARRIED OUT

Caterforce has already removed palm oil from a number of its own range Chefs’ Selections products and is working with suppliers to reduce the volume of plastic

Authorised service partner We also service and maintain all marques, Thermo King, Carrier, GAH, Hubbard/Zanotti, Webasto, Eberspacher

11

packaging it uses.

Nick Redford, Managing Director of Caterforce, said: “We have recently seen a lot of consolidation in the industry, however at Caterforce we are dedicated to foodservice wholesalers and continually focus on creating an exceptional food service solution for members and end users.” ● www.caterforce.co.uk

The Bulletin

M EM BER NE W S

Updates from BFFF members

The Bulletin Wins Silver Award for Best Publication The BFFF Bulletin magazine has taken home the Silver award for the Best Publication at the CIPR (Chartered Institute of Public Relations) Pride North West Awards in December.

The awards showcase the best PR and marketing campaigns from across the region and The Bulletin was up against stiff competition in its category, including Stockport Council and East Lancashire Hospital NHS Trust.

This award win comes after a recent revamp of The Bulletin’s look and content, which was praised by readers with comments such as “Just received my edition of the new look Bulletin – WOW! I shall now enjoy reading over my coffee. Well done to all @BFFF and take a bow

New cold store now open in Etchingham, East Sussex to expand range of products and stockholding facility

Pelican.”

Craft Guild of Chefs Announces 8th Universal Cookery and Food Festival

SEAFOOD SPECIALISTS

Following the huge success of last year’s festival, the 2019 8th UCFF will be themed “From the Land” and will focus on sustainability, alongside complimentary issues such as Brexit, crowd funding, local heroes and ‘Mums in the kitchen’. The popular annual event will take place on Tuesday 25th June 2019 at Farrington Oils in Northamptonshire.

Why not contact us to find out if we can assist you: Unit 2-3 Hawkhurst Station Business Park, Gills Green Hawkhurst CRANBROOK Kent TN18 5BD

Established in 2012, UCFF was the brainchild of Lee Maycock, Ian Nottage and John Feeney during their time as Craft Guild of Chefs committee members. Designed by chefs, for chefs, each year the festival moves around the UK, taking the event directly to chefs in different locations.

Ian Nottage, UCFF director says: “We are very excited to be heading to Northampton with UCFF 2019. We always try to tackle industry topics and historically, explored subjects such as obesity, mental health issues, disability and equality in professional kitchens. Next year, sustainability will be high on the agenda, with industry experts taking to the stage to share their experience and knowledge. Particularly in light of the current issues around the use of single use plastics in the hospitality industry.”

T: 01580 752878 E: sales@nortrade.co.uk W: www.nortrade.co.uk

● www.cookeryandfoodfestival.co.uk 12

The Bulletin

NEW

THE TASTE OF GOOD BUSINESS IS H&G MSC WHITEBAIT

Paramount 21 Ltd celebrated its 30th Anniversary last year. It has been a trusted supplier of Whitebait and Blanchbait in various formats, coated and uncoated, to the whole of the UK foodservice market since it started.

After 30 years of trading it is important to look long term, and with an eye on the future, Paramount believes that sustainable sourcing and responsible fishing has to be the main focus for all companies in the seafood world

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) fish guide website also tells us that Sprat from this fishery are now a ‘Best Choice’, with a rating of 1 meaning they can be consumed guilt free! The ‘Best Choice’ rating means the fishing stock is well managed, under-fished and harvested with a low impact on other species and the environment.

It has just launched a fully sustainable Coated and Uncoated Headed and Gutted (H&G) Whitebait which is Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certified. Having the experience of packing and breading whitebait in their UK factory for almost 30 years they can guarantee that they know what they are doing, if you’ve ever eaten Whitebait in its UK, it’s a good chance it’s theirs. They have full MSC Chain of custody and their fish is traceable from boat to plate.

Whitebait is high in Omega 3, make a fantastic and very competitively priced starter or main course, and can be used as a snacking item or on a sharing platter, so if you are concerned about sustainability on your menu this may just be the solution you have been looking for.

For wholesale contact Debs Casey-Smith E: debs@paramount21.co.uk T: 07747 560098

The whitebait (Sprattus Sprattus) comes from a fishery that has been independently certified as sustainable to the MSC Fisheries Standard.

13

The Bulletin NEW PRODUCTS

Strong Roots launches healthier version of breakfast favourite

Potato Perfection with New Crispy Coated Shoestring Fries

Strong Roots’ has launched ‘Cauliflower Hash Browns’, a plantbased product created to provide a healthier carb replacement for the much-loved breakfast staple.

With chips of all shapes and sizes continuing to take up space on menus up and down the UK, leading independent foodservice brand Country Range has enhanced its choice with the launch of Crispy Coated Shoestring Fries.

Strong Roots Cauliflower Hash Browns will retail at £2.99 and are low in sugar, low in saturated fat and ready to bake.

Available through the Country Range Group’s network of independent wholesalers, the new addition comes in 2.5kg bags in cases of four, giving caterers even more choice when it comes to their potato selection.

Chunky new fish cakes from BigFish Brand

Speciality Breads Launches Vegan Society Registered Range

Each of the new fish cake recipes combines fish with chunky potato, sourced locally in Lincolnshire, and coated in a light crisp crumb.

On the back of growing demand for plant-based foods across the foodservice industry and the wider UK, innovative British bakers Speciality Breads has announced the launch of an over 60-strong range of vegan, freshly frozen artisan breads, which The Vegan Society has registered with its trademark.

There are three ‘traditional favourites' – salmon: Atlantic salmon fillet and Lincolnshire potato, seasoned with herbs; cod: cod fillet and chunky Lincolnshire potato, seasoned with herbs; smoked haddock: lightly smoked haddock, Lincolnshire potato, spring onion and cheese, delicately seasoned.

The newly registered range comprises of over 60 existing lines including ciabattas, focaccias, baguettes and sourdough, plus an exciting new product, the Eden Burger Bun.

14

The Bulletin NEW PRODUCTS

Kara relaunches bloomers range

Three Cheese for Country Range’s latest roll-out

Kara, the foodservice specialist of the Finsbury Foodgroup, has relaunched and expanded its range of bloomers.

Country Range has launched a Three Cheese and Onion Roll, strengthening its pastry section.

The roll is available immediately to operators via the group’s network of independent wholesalers in packs of 60 x 162g approx.

Baked from frozen in just 30 minutes, the frozen puff pastry is filled with a cheddar, red Leicester and onion mix, topped with an Italian hard cheese and rusk topping.

The range, which previously consisted of four medium sliced bloomers, now has redeveloped recipes and also contains three new thick slice options and a new flavour of sunflower and oat, taking the total range up to seven.

SUPERIOR QUALITY SALMON Customised Assurance – Powered by Technology

Salmon from the

FAROE ISLANDS Bakkafrost Salmon is raised in the pristine clean ocean in the Faroe Islands and is fed on a specially produced feed with a high marine profile. This gives Bakkafrost Salmon a unique and pure taste that is rich in healthy Omega-3 fatty acids.

• Supply Chain Management

• Third-Party Audits

• Technical Advisory

• Bespoke Standard Creation

• Training Programmes

• Quality Management Systems

• Supplier Audits

• Food Safety Schemes

saiglobal.com/assurance Email: information@saiglobal.com I Call: +44 (0)1908 793245

BAKKAFROST UK LTD

SAI Global ABN 67 050 611 642 ©2019 SAI Global. The SAI Global name and logo are trademarks of SAI Global. All Rights Reserved. 133058 0119

Phone: 01472 265 000 Mail: uk@bakkafrost.com

15 133058_UKI_resize_print_ad_124x88mm.indd 1

1/14/19 8:36 AM

Quality Frozen Seafood

Sea Products International Limited (SPI) is part of an International Seafood Group, specialising in the sourcing and marketing of fish and seafood from around the world.

Serving the UK market for over 40 years, our strength lies in our long-standing relationships with leading producers from around the globe.

We pride ourselves in consistant levels of quality and service that allows us to establish strong relationships with our customers – who include National and Regional Wholesalers, Cash & Carries, Chinese and Indian Distributors, Major Restaurant Chains, Fish Merchants, Food Manufacturers and Retailers. We work very closely with our customers, supply partners and legislators to ensure that we can provide a full range of items developed to meet the needs of the dynamic UK market.

Sea Products International Ltd recognises the importance of the sustainable management of fisheries and the land & marine environments.

We strive to develop our trading relationships to increase awareness of the environmental impact of their operations, and how they can minimise any detrimental effects which their activities may cause.

Ask us which of our seafood is

MSC-C-54440

Whether you require commodity products, added value or bespoke product solutions please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Sea Products International Ltd, 62 Ravenhurst Street, Highgate, Birmingham, B12 0EL,UK Tel: +44 (0)121 622 5111, Fax: +44 (0)121 622 6123, Email: info@seaproductsint.com

www.seaproductsint.com

The Bulletin INTERVIEW

17

The Bulletin INTERVIEW

The Ardo Group

started crop production on a small family farm in Belgium in 1960. In 1977 the same family opened their first freezing facility and still owns and runs the company. Today Ardo exports frozen fruit, vegetables and herbs to 56 countries, has 21 production, packing and distribution sites across nine countries, and operates 27 local sales offices.

Until September last year, Stephen Waugh was its managing director, and helped to increase turnover from £35m to almost £100m with the combined Ardo Herb business. Reflecting on 43 years in business, he says there are ‘so many highlights, but at the core is the people.’

For 15 years Stephen Waugh worked his way up the ranks at The Albert Fisher Group, starting as a wholesale national account manager and progressing to managing director of the frozen produce division, overseeing 669 employees in the peak season.

In 2002 Stephen took his expertise to Ardo. He clearly remembers his first staff presentation, where he highlighted the key philosophies that have carried him through his career: be focussed, do it simply, and with pace.

He explains: “Focus is vital. Businesses win or lose because they try to do too many different things at once which confuses priorities.

It’s also important not to complicate things, keep everything understandable for everybody in the organisation. And pace, which does not mean rushing at the problem or strategy, but once something is decided then there is no reason not to get on with it.”

Stephen admits he found the culture at Ardo’s UK head office to be quite exclusive, something he was keen to change by putting the focus on the staff.

He says: “I wanted to change it to be inclusive and cooperative. People are responsible and know what is expected of them. We implemented PDRs and training programmes and built a robust health and safety system which has won six RoSPA gold awards.

“We created a culture where people made plans and looked to the future, so even when there were setbacks, we always had something in the pipeline.”

During Stephen’s time at Ardo a new factory was built which included state of the art packing equipment and cold stores, increasing capacity by 33%.

In 2014 he was given the responsibility of running Ardo’s Danish business - a business that had enjoyed fantastic market shares but struggled financially.

Stephen set about eradicating loss-making activities, exploiting profitable ones and again worked on empowering the team listening to the staff and implementing a successful restructure which resulted in only one redundancy.

The year prior to him joining, the Danish arm was losing money. The following year he managed to halve that loss, and progressively grow profitability well into the black in the subsequent years.

Alongside Ashford and Denmark, Stephen also took on Ardo’s herb

18

The Bulletin INTERVIEW

"I think frozen will become a more attractive option" business at ‘Rosemary & Thyme’ in Suffolk, becoming the regional managing director of UK and Denmark, and with this was promoted to the Ardo Group management committee.

more fruit and vegetables.”

In other words, Stephen sees frozen as complimentary to fresh, with the two sectors sharing common concerns.

In the midst of his Ardo tenure, Stephen was also BFFF president from 2006 to 2008. Of his time as BFFF president he says: “It was great to mix with the senior people from the industry - retailers, foodservice operators, manufacturers and service providers.

“We have so many assets that are intrinsic to what we do - for example, waste is a huge factor and we are seeing manufacturers switch away from canned due to metal waste and fresh because of inconsistent

“Also, for the first time I worked with Government departments and was involved in the ‘5-a-day’ and ‘Healthy Start’ schemes. It was quite a challenge discussing subjects that were far away from my normal

quality and waste of product.”

commercial discussions.”

company in the frozen sector who invests so heavily for the future.

When it comes to Ardo, Stephen says he does not know another Describing a unique family business with sustainability at its heart, he

One of the things Stephen thinks has changed over the years is the

says what really sets it apart from the rest is the geographical spread of

consumer attitude towards frozen foods. Where once there was a

factories and extensive product portfolio to help mitigate climatic and

common perception that frozen foods are lower quality than fresh,

economic conditions whilst bringing fresh innovations to market.

today the message about the nutritional and preservative benefits of frozen are getting through.

Now that Ardo holds a majority stake in North American processed produce supplier VLM Foods, Stephen believes the world is their

But now he is looking at the industry with a little distance, what does

oyster in terms of both sourcing and supplying.

he think is the future for frozen?

“Ardo already has an important share of the European market and VLM

“Unfortunately the scale has gone out of many manufacturing sectors

has key customers in North America so opportunities are there but

in the UK and frozen vegetables are a good example of this, however,

Europe is still core.”

who knows what Brexit will bring?”

He adds: “Now that the third generation of the Haspeslagh family are

Not many would want to hazard a guess, but given the current

in key positions in the Group, Ardo has come a long way but there are

economic climate, Stephen believes that frozen options have a bright

still great opportunities.

future.

As for Stephen, he is not treating the end of his time with Ardo as

He says: “I think frozen will become a more attractive option. Not just

retirement, but more as taking a step back to discover what the next

because it is very good value - the quality of our products stand for

challenge will be.

themselves on any price level - people are increasingly becoming

He says: “After 43 years in business, some hiccups but also a great deal of success, it is time for a breather! I am proud of my achievements and legacy and it would be a shame to waste all my experience, so I am not saying ‘no’ to anything, whether in business or outside, however I am looking for inspiration to take me into the next phase of my life’s story.”

aware of the quality and innovation. The price just enhances the industry’s story.”

That said, he also thinks the ‘battle with fresh will never end.'

He adds: “Although this of course depends on the retailer or foodservice operator’s strategy, but is it really a battle because the key message to consumers is not whether it is frozen, fresh or canned, as they all have their attributes, but in our industry’s case it is about eating

19

HAVE YOU BOOKED YOUR PLACE AT THE FROZEN FOOD INDUSTRY’S “MUST ATTEND” ANNUAL CONFERENCE?

By Day - Enjoy a top quality speaker programme at our Main Event The programme for our 9th Annual Conference is almost finalised with another line up of key industry experts who will share with us their insights and predictions around our conference theme ‘Frozen Food in 2025’

Speakers confirmed so far include: ⊲ Roger Martin Fagg, Economist ⊲ Adrian Gahan, Former Conservative Party Adviser ⊲ Simon Stenning, Strategic Advice for Foodservice ⊲ Chris Hayward, Kantar Worldpanel ⊲ Nick Downing, IGD

Keynote Speaker:

Dr. Morgaine Gaye, Food Futurologist will share her insights which give the longview in 2025 to give a pro-active advantage.

For the specialists - register to attend our Technical or Health & Safety Seminars, which will be running at the same time at the same venue

HEALTH & SAFETY

TECHNICAL

Join us for the 10th BFFF Health & Safety Seminar.

There will be a wide-ranging and interesting debate on the major technical issues facing food businesses today. The seminar will focus on issues that are currently having an impact on your business and solutions that are available to help current challenges.

Join leading industry experts to discuss a wealth of relevant topics currently affecting the sector.

This event is designed to provide members with guidance on a multitude of topical health & safety matters, delivered in through case studies and topical key note speakers.

Topics will include:

Topics will include: ⊲

‘Safe Isolation Saves Lives’ – Electrical Safety Louise Taggart, Sister

⊲

Wellbeing and Stress - Peter Kelly, Senior Psychologist, HSE

⊲

Noise - Clare Forshaw, Occupational Health & Hygiene Partner, Park H&S

⊲

Key Note Speaker – Wayne Bagnall MBE

20

⊲

‘Where are we heading?’ – including the postBrexit landscape, culture measurement and updates from FSA

⊲

‘Innovation’ – with topics such as stable isotope testing, rapid testing and frozen manufacturing developments

⊲

‘Looking to the future’ including big data, blockchain and insurance issues

UPCOMING SEMINARS

HEALTH & SAFETY

TECHNICAL

Join us for the 10th BFFF Health & Safety Seminar.

Following the success and fantastic feedback from BFFF’s first ever Technical Seminar, join us at the next one in February 2019.

Join leading industry experts to discuss a wealth of relevant topics currently affecting the sector.

This event is designed to provide members with guidance on a multitude of topical health & safety matters, delivered in through case studies and topical key note speakers.

Again there will be a wide-ranging and interesting debate on the major technical issues facing food businesses today. The seminar will focus on issues that are currently having an impact on your business and solutions that are available to help current challenges.

Topics will include:

Topics will include:

⊲

‘Safe Isolation Saves Lives’ – Electrical Safety - Louise Taggart, Sister

⊲

⊲

Wellbeing and Stress - Peter Kelly, Senior Psychologist, HSE

‘Where are we heading?’ – including the post-Brexit landscape, culture measurement and updates from FSA

⊲

‘Innovation’ – with topics such as stable isotope testing, rapid testing and frozen manufacturing developments

⊲

‘Looking to the future’ including big data, blockchain and insurance issues

⊲

Noise - Clare Forshaw, Occupational Health & Hygiene Partner, Park H&S

⊲

Key Note Speaker – Wayne Bagnall MBE

The following details are the same for both of the above events: WHEN:

Thursday 7th February 2019

WHERE:

Birmingham Hilton Metropole, Pendigo Way, B40 1PP

COST:

£195 + vat for member delegates £295 + vat for non-member delegates

EVENTS SPONSORED BY:

RESERVE YOUR PLACE:

To request a booking form please email: crystalholmes@bfff.co.uk ** As seminars are organised many months in advance, alterations, substitutions or cancellations to the speakers and/or topics are sometimes required. Whilst we make every effort to find a direct replacement should a speaker cancel, this is not always possible within given timeframes.

21

The Bulletin

BFFF Business Conference Programme February 9th 2019

The BFFF 9th annual Business Conference and Exhibition will take place on Thursday 7th February at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole.

With a packed line-up of key industry experts, they will share their insights and predictions on the theme Frozen Food in 2025.

We are delighted to announce the programme is as follows…

The Future of Frozen Food-2025 8:30

Registration / Refreshments & Exhibition

9:20

Welcome from Conference Chair Michael Bennett, Managing Director, Pelican Communications Michael will welcome the 2019 delegation to the ninth BFFF Business Conference.

9:25

John Hyman, Chief Executive, BFFF John will provide an update on the latest BFFF initiatives for members and context for the day.

A view from our Economist

9:40 10:40

Roger Martin-Fagg, Economist Roger takes his eagle eye look at how the economy is performing and unique insight.

Refreshments & Exhibition Our Markets

11:00

Nick Downing, IGD – Retail 2025 Nick will explore what the UK retail landscape will look like in 2025 and the key drivers of growth. He will also look at some of the latest innovations in frozen food merchandising from around the World and key learnings for the UK.

11:25

Chris Hayward, Kantar Worldpanel Chris will provide the latest UK retail market update including the fastest growing categories plus a Christmas performance review.

11:50

Q&A / Panel Debate

12:00

Lunch & Exhibition Growth after Brexit

13:00

Simon Stenning, Strategic Advice for Foodservice Simon will present the latest foodservice market data, drivers and key trends with his focus on ‘The Future of Foodservice’.

13:25

Adrian Gahan, Former Conservative Party Adviser Adrian will give a political update on Brexit as we approach the date the UK is due to leave the EU and what this means for BFFF members.

Driving long term frozen growth

14:05

Wayne Hudson, BirdsEye Wayne will highlight the importance of investing in brands to fully exploit the long-term category growth opportunities. The future is bright for the UK frozen category, and Wayne will share some of the highlights of the BirdsEye/Nomad business transformation.

14:30

Janice Rockwell, Brakes Janice will look at the growing importance of sustainability and give an update on current best practice CSR examples within Brakes.

14:55

Refreshments & Exhibition

15:15

Keynote Speaker – Dr Morgaine Gaye With major changes already altering every element of our lives; how we shop, what we buy, our values and our relationships, we need to look further into the future to identify new possibilities. Morgaine will share her insights which give the long-view in 2025 to give you a pro-active advantage.

16:15

Q&A

16:30

Close

For more information and booking options, visit the BFFF website or email jillywallis@bfff.co.uk.

22

SAVE THE

DATES Be sure to get the dates in your diary for our upcoming events!

13th June 2019 Gala Dinner & Product Awards 13th June 2019 Industry Forum 27th June 2019 Fire Safety & Composite Panel Event 22nd August 2019 Thinking of Joining Seminar 26th November 2019 Annual Luncheon 27th November 2019 Industry Forum 27th February 2020 Business Conference & People Awards

For more information on any of our events contact: Charley Price Events Manager Tel: 01400 283091 Email: charleyprice@bfff.co.uk

THE NORTH ATL ANTIC CHAMPION

GREENLAND HALIBUT

Royal Greenland

FIT FOR FOODSERVICE & GASTRO

GREENLAND HALIBUT Wild caught - in the icy cold North Atlantic sea The bright and white flesh of the Greenland Halibut gives it an exclusive and premium look.

It almost never goes dry and is very easy to cook thanks to its succulent and tender consistency.

Did you also know that the Greenland halibut: - Has a sweet and mild umami flavour - Is healthy - high on omega-3 (2,36 g pr 100 g) and a good source of vitamin B6, vitamin D, phosphorus and selenium - Has a soft and delicate texture - Available in boneless MSC fillets and IQF loins Have you tried Greenland Halibut yet?

Royal Greenland UK, Gateway House, North Wing 2nd Floor, Styal Road, Wythenshawe Manchester, M22 5WY enquiryuk@royalgreenland.com www.royalgreenland.co.uk For more information please contact Royal Greenland on 0161 489 7000

Scan code for some delicious recipe inspirations about our fantastic Greenland Halibut www.royalgreenland.co.uk/foodservice/

THE

STORy behind the stats

D

uncertainty contributing to this success, and are we any closer to knowing the future of frozen fish and seafood in a post-Brexit Britain?

espite price inflation, frozen fish was the only seafood segment to maintain volume growth between 2017 and 2018. How are dietary trends and economic 25

Sales figures for seafood have made for grim reading since they began

additives. This gives brands like ours plenty of headroom to create

to fall in January 2017. By autumn 2017 chilled volume sales had gone

good quality, healthy and natural frozen fish ideas that can go some

into decline and it seemed that economic and political uncertainty was

way in overcoming the barriers to seafood created by chilled price

impacting consumer behaviour and in turn, the industry.

inflation.”

Yet this is one of the reasons that frozen fish and seafood have bucked

The ’healthy’ aspect she mentions seems to be another driving force

the trend. As people have become more cost-conscious, so the added

behind the success of frozen fish and seafood.

value of frozen has gained in appeal, making frozen fish the only

Government guidelines recommend we should all be eating two

seafood segment to maintain volume growth (+0.4%).

portions of fish a week, one being oily, as part of a balanced diet,

With frozen fish and seafood approximately 20 per cent cheaper than

but additionally, over a quarter of British meat eaters now say that

their fresh counterparts, it’s easy to see why the current economic

they have reduced or limited their meat consumption over the past

climate would drive shoppers to the frozen aisles, but that is not the

six months. A further one in seven adults say they are interested in

whole story behind the sector’s success.

continuing to limit their red meat and poultry consumption in the future.

Part of the surge in demand for frozen fish and seafood is an increased

This, as well as a rise in the popularity of flexitarianism, has inevitably

awareness of the quality of frozen. Advances in technology allow

had an impact on fish and seafood sales as people look for healthier

consumers to buy fish that has been frozen mere hours after being

alternatives to meat.

harvested, a message that seems to be reaching the consumer.

All this points to continuing success for frozen fish and seafood, but

Louise Coulbeck founding director of JCS Fish, says: “People do now

in order to secure a bright future, sustainability is key, and there are

fully understand that freezing is a way of locking in the natural vitamins,

lots of examples of steps being taken to boost sustainability within the

minerals, taste and texture of food without the need for artificial

industry.

“People do now fully understand that freezing is a way of locking in the natural vitamins, minerals, taste and texture of food without the need for artificial additives. This gives brands like ours plenty of headroom to create good quality, healthy and natural frozen fish ideas that can go some way in overcoming the barriers to seafood created by chilled price inflation.”

26

A

ccording to the WWF, around 38 million tonnes of

sealife is caught unintentionally each year, amounting to 40 per cent of the global fishing yield. Last September, Iceland addressed this by launching fish fillets bags consisting entirely of bycatch species such as whiting, megrim and pouting.

The aim is not only to introduce shoppers to species other than the popular cod and salmon, but also improve the sustainability of UK fisheries by not discarding edible fish as waste.

Andrew Coulbeck, director of JCS Fish says that fundamental to sustainability is understanding your supply chain.

He says: “Choose your suppliers carefully and make sure you understand exactly what they’re supplying. Our business works directly with carefully chosen suppliers to make sure we can explain to our own customers exactly where the fish comes from and how it was produced.”

He adds: “Of course, there is also now a very wellestablished infrastructure of accreditations for ‘sustainably sourced’ seafood.”

In March 2018, salmon farming company Bakkafrost launched a two-year plan to address sustainability issues. Now a year into this plan they are making progress in a number of areas, including investment in the Faroe Island’s first biogas plant, where their waste can be converted to renewable energy.

Torkil Davidsen, head of UK operations, said: “When in operation, the plant will have the capacity to convert up to 90-100,000 tonnes annually of all waste from salmon and dairy farms, providing enough renewable heat for 400 homes and electricity for 1,900 homes with the current input predicted.

27

Of course, at present it is almost impossible to talk about the future of any UK industry without mentioning the ‘B’ word. But when it comes to frozen fish and seafood in post-Brexit Britain, the future is still decidedly hazy.

“This is projected to save 11,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions and produce 40-45,000 tonnes of natural liquid fertilizer annually. The renewable energy produced from waste, will feed in to the national grid, contributing to the Faroe Island’s national target to have 100% electricity from renewable sources by 2030, which in October 2018 was already at around 75%.”

But for Bakkafrost, while uncertainties surrounding Brexit continue,

Of course, at present it is almost impossible to talk about the future of

Group has a geographical approach, so that the products are always

any UK industry without mentioning the ‘B’ word. But when it comes

sold on all the largest markets around the world, from EU and US to

to frozen fish and seafood in post-Brexit Britain, the future is still

Russia and Far East.”

decidedly hazy.

While it has been reported that tariffs placed on imports of the UK’s most popular seafood would range between 7.5% to 18% in the event of a hard Brexit, Andrew Coulbeck from JCS Fish is not yet too concerned.

He says: “We don’t have a significant export business to mainland Europe at present and we source most of our fish either from Scotland or Scandinavia, which is outside the EU, so we don’t currently foresee any particular problems for our own business, although obviously the ongoing uncertainty is not great for consumer confidence.”

28

they have no plans to significantly expand sales in the UK during 2019, and ‘will wait and see if the UK market still remains competitive’.

Torkil Davidsen says that it is impossible to know if Brexit will help the company to grow sales in Britain, adding: “It could go badly wrong if there are trading issues into the EU for the Scottish salmon. Also, currency is a worry. This is one of the reasons that the Bakkafrost

Brexit aside, the benefits of frozen fish and seafood are becoming increasing well-known. In addition to the preservation of nutrients, the main benefit of frozen seafood is that supply issues such as seasonality can be avoided, and a great range of fish made available all year round. This could secure frozen as the fish and seafood sector of choice in the years ahead.

A NEW YEAR... A NEW APPROACH TO WASTE WASTE

REDISTRIBUTION VIA COMPANY SHOP

OVER PRODUCTION

FOREIGN LABEL

LabelLING errors UNDER WEIGHT

SEASONAL ITEMS

OVER IGHT RETAILER OWN LABEL

NPD TrIAlS

SHORT DATE CODED

This year redistribute your surplus with Company Shop • • •

We can give you a financial return on your surplus products.

We have approval to redistribute surplus own label products from all the major UK supermarkets.

We handle surplus products that occur for multiple reasons including: • Seasonal items • Overproduction • Short date coded • NPD • Unfinished products • Retailer own label • Underweight/overweight • Labelling/packaging errors, and many more...

We already redistribute millions of products each year.

Find out how we can help you to redistribute yours too:

Company Shop Surplus Hotline

0845 697 04 18

Unlocking the full potential in surplus... www.companyshop.co.uk

financially, socially and environmentally

Proud Sponsors of The BFFF People Awards

The Bulletin

PEOPLE AWARDS

shortlist announced

After the tremendous success of our 2018 Awards, we are delighted with the high calibre of nominees for our 2nd Annual BFFF People Awards being held on 7th February 2019.

This year sees new categories being introduced to allow companies to showcase the many roles that go into keeping the frozen food industry running smoothly every single day.

to the panel, Jane Marren, managing director of Company Shop and Ginny Durdy, marketing manager of The Ice Co. The awards will be presented at a ceremony on the evening of 7th February, at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole, following the BFFF’s Annual Business Conference.

Our finalists were chosen during an in-depth judging process by an independent panel of experts from across the food and drink and HR industries. The six-strong judging panel was made up of: Vince Craig, BFFF board member; Alison Cannon, founding partner, Resonate Search & Selection; Nick Downing, IGD commercial director and Cheryl Bennett, director, Pelican Communications.

Finalists will be invited to an exclusive presidents’ reception before the awards dinner, where they will be able to celebrate their achievements amongst their peers.

We were also very pleased to welcome two of our previous winners

BFFF People awards shortlist Adam Smith, Iceland

Company Shop

Rebecca Nascimento, Birds Eye

Alina Solomka, Iceland

Kelly Orme, Caterforce

Richard Harrison, Bidfood

Ann Haydock, Iceland

Kelsey Hull, Bidfood

Rob Ironmonger, Greenyard

Anneke Turner, Brakes

Kevin Tetley, Billington Foodservice

Brand Transformation Team, Birds Eye

Laura Schade, Greenyard

Rosalind Mould, Philip Dennis Foodservice

Brian Jones, Castell Howell Foods

Lisa Hayes, Apetito

Claire Hoyle, Birds Eye

Lorraine Palmer, Bidfood

Daniel Morris, Billington Foodservice

Louise Hagger, Aunt Bessie's

David Kinder, Bidfood

Lucy Windsor, Bidfood

Declan Crofts, Barnsley College

Mark Hardy, Apetito

EJ Cousins, Lynas Foodservice

Markos Papavlasopoulos, Birds Eye

Gail Bridgeman, Bidfood

Natalie Ranat, Meal Creations - Kerry Foods

Gavin Wood, The Company Shop Gemma Benford, Bidfood Gemma Griffiths, Iceland Iain Brierley, Bidfood Ian Tyrrell, Bidfood Innovatrion Team, Bidfood Jason Glasscock & Donna Davidson, Greenyard JB Foods (Scotland) Ltd, Caterforce John McAndie, Bidfood Joy Mead, Bidfood Kay Malcolm & Kate Roberts, The

National Accounts Supply Chain Team, Bidfood Naz Haq, Bidfood Nicola Mills, The Billington Group NPD Team, Paramount 21 Olivia Brown, Bidfood Olivia Lister, Iceland Oren Kader, Bidfood Paul McNeela, Iceland Pem Hulusi, Brakes Rachel Hartwell, Bidfood

31

Shekinah Siringwani, Bidfood Stephanie Hocking, Birds Eye Stuart McRoberts, Bidfood Sunit Purandare, Meal Creations - Kerry Foods Supply Chain Freezer Team, Samworth Supply Chain Replenishment Team, Bidfood Terry Maree, The Company Shop The Customer Service Division, Apetito The Frozen Division, Kepak Foodservice Solutions Thomas Hunt, Hunts Foodservice Zoe Beauvoisin, Apetito

IFE and BFFF To Continue Collaborative Partnership Tomorrow. The biennial event will take visitors on a journey through the

The International Food & Drink Event (IFE) has been at the heart of the food & drink community for 42 years, forging strong relationships with industry leaders including the BFFF.

senses as they see, taste, smell and touch revolutionary products from across the globe. There will also be plenty of networking opportunities, enabling buyers to meet with peers and forge new relations. Not to mention a comprehensive speaker line up giving visitors access to thought-provoking, insight-driven content that will leave them full of future-focussed ideas.

Food & Drink Trends

It’s IFE’s mission to create an event that brings together the whole food

In this fast-paced industry it is essential for frozen food buyers to keep

& drink industry to make positive changes that can improve consumers’

a finger on the pulse. With food & drink trends constantly evolving, and

interaction with food & drink and create a healthier, happier and

the unprecedented impact of social media, IFE has maintained its focus

more sustainable world. With the sector anticipated to face multiple

on showcasing the latest innovations to inspire and delight buyers and

changes and challenges over the coming year, IFE is the place to form

exhibitors alike. To achieve this IFE creates new, interactive features

lasting relationships and gain insights into how to navigate upcoming

and selects exhibitors which are launching exciting and innovative

developments.

products.

IFE & The BFFF

Taking place on 17 – 20 March 2019 at ExCeL London, IFE 2019 will celebrate its 21st anniversary by providing visitors with a Taste of

IFE 2019 will have a strong focus on the frozen food sector. Led by

32

the BFFF, the sector is undergoing somewhat of a resurgence and is currently worth £8bn a year, with forecasts predicting that ongoing growth will surpass £10bn in coming years . IFE will be reintroducing the category to this year’s event and, through its longstanding partnership with the BFFF, suppliers at the event will be able to showcase their newest and most innovative frozen products.

BFFF and IFE have a long and valuable relationship that began at the first ever IFE event in 1979. The shared vision that the two leading organisations hold about this dynamic industry means the partnership is beneficial to all who attend the internationally renowned exhibition.

Each year, visitors look forward to visiting the BFFF stand at IFE, which has always been a central point for BFFF members to network, hold meetings and meet the Federation team. The BFFF is also known for creating a buzz at the show through its ice-themed activations, such as an Ice Wall and Ice Café.

Pro2Pac IFE is co-located with Pro2Pac, the complete processing & packaging event for the food & drink industry. By having the events co-located, exhibitors and visitors get the chance to access the latest innovations in packaging, processing and printing. Together, the events are a meeting place for BFFF members throughout the food & drink supply chain – an influential gathering of producers, technologists, new product developers, packaging design specialists and food & drink buyers.

33

See our members at IFE! Meat & Seafood

Royal Greenland Stand: S2610

Seahawk Marine Stand: S2610A

Grants Oak Smoked Ltd. Stand: S2611

Delta Foods Stand: S2518

Frozen Food

SAI Global Stand: S2538

Ingredients

Place UK Stand: N1712

Drinks Newberry International Produce Stand: N2210

34

CELEBRATING AN OUTSTANDING YEAR OF GROWTH FOR THE FROZEN FOOD INDUSTRY

This year’s Annual Luncheon was a time for celebration and reflection on the successes of the previous year in frozen food, while looking forward to meeting the £10bn target this thriving industry has set itself.

Held at the London Hilton on Park Lane, the prestigious event saw over 900 of the best and brightest of the frozen food industry come together to enjoy an afternoon of first class food, networking and entertainment to kick-start the festive period.

The day started with the president’s guests enjoying reception drinks, sponsored by Company Shop which was represented by John and Jane Marren, and has just launched a partner initiative with BFFF to help members reduce food waste within the industry.

Once business leaders from over 300 companies had taken their seats, BFFF president and Iceland managing director Nigel Broadhurst celebrated the success for the frozen food industry over the past year in his speech.

He highlighted the strength of the £8.5bn industry which has seen 5% market growth in the last 12 months, putting frozen food ahead of both chilled and ambient. Even while consumer confidence has seen a knock in the light of ongoing Brexit negotiations, he stressed how the frozen food market has remained the most buoyant part of the grocery sector.

Nigel said: “We put the past year’s successes down to our innovation, a move into premium quality products and the convenience of our everyday products which save food waste daily. The frozen food industry is offering highly relevant products to consumers’ kitchens, delivering solutions to problems whether in the home or the restaurant kitchen and this is being recognised.”

Nigel also took the opportunity to thank members who made contributions to create a new marketing campaign, ‘Fresh from the Freezer’. The video-centred campaign will last for six months, showcasing the benefits of frozen food to both consumers and chefs through six seasonally-themed videos and will be built on next year.

Following Nigel’s speech, attendees enjoyed a delicious four course meal prepared by Hilton executive chef, Anthony Marshall and his team. The meal kicked off with a starter of sweet and sour salmon with avocado ice cream, followed by a goat’s cheese and saffron pannacotta with pistachio dust and caramel dressing. Main course was lamb rump with spiced aubergine, honey glazed carrots, parsnip and potato compression. The whole meal was topped off with a showstopping black forest dessert.

After the meal, entertainment was provided by comedian Ian Moore, who raised a lot of laughs with his musings on British life.

As well as this year’s headline sponsor NewCold, the event was generously supported by Company Shop which sponsored the President’s VIP Reception, general reception sponsor Moy Park and Iceland which sponsored the seating brochure. Other event partner sponsors include GridBeyond, Freiberger and Principal Logistics.

35

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

Thank you to our sponsors:

2

1

1. Simon Brentnall, BFFF H&S Manager, and Vince Craig, Meadowbrae Technical Services (l-r) enjoy chatting with Ali Hannaford of Paramount 21.

2. Company Shop sponsor Presidents Reception.

3. John Hyman, BFFF Chief Executive, Stephen Waugh, Past BFFF President, and Nigel Broadhurst, BFFF President (l-r)

3

36

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

4

5

6

7

4. Nigel Broadhurst, BFFF President, thanks event sponsors in his speech 5. John Hyman, BFFF Chief Executive, and celebrity Dr. David Bull (l-r) 6. Robert Clark, The UK Foodhall and Mark Platt, Shakespeare Martineau 7. Denise Rion, BFFF Technical Manager and Phil Proud of Avara Foods

37

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

8. Nigel Broadhurst, BFFF President, delivers the Loyal Toast.

9. Iceland Foods sponsored the Seating Brochure.

10. London Hilton served a delicious lamb main course.

11. Ali Hannaford (second from right) and Paramount 21 guests.

12. Comedian, Ian Moore, thrilled a full Hilton ballroom.

9

8

10

11

12 38

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

13

14

15

16

13. Thanks to Moy Park, our general reception sponsor.

14. Comedian, Ian Moore.

15. Warm welcome to event partner sponsor, Principal Logistics.

16. Comedian Ian Moore delights the President's table 17. Sir Malcolm Walker and guests of Iceland.

17 39

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

18. Full ballroom.

19. Nigel Broadhurst, BFFF President, welcomes guests to his table.

20. Felipe, of the Hilton, enjoys a laugh with waiters prior to service.

21. Simon Spence (far left) with guests of Westbridge Foods.

22. BFFF Staff and guests raise a glass to all BFFF members and their guests for making the event such a great success.

19

18

20

21

22 40

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

23

24

25

26 23. Thanks to all our sponsors.

24. Martin Sykes (centre) retired Chairman of J. Sykes & Sons enjoys meeting guests in the President’s Reception.

25. A warm thanks to all our members and guests for another full Luncheon.

26. Pleased to see our event partner sponsor, Gridbeyond.

27. John Hyman, BFFF Chief Executive, welcomes guests to his table.

27

41

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

28. A full Wellington Ballroom Preevent Reception.

29. Pelican enjoy a laugh with Birds Eye's Pete Johnson.

30.Karen McQuade, The UK Foodhall, and Gordon Darbyshire, Craemer UK. 31. Martin Beecham, Remco van Dieuwenhoven and Roy van den Berg, Visbeen 32 Helen Spauls of Smethurst & Buckton enjoys meeting Tijen Ahmet, Shakespeare Martineau (l-r).

29

28

30

31

32 42

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

33. Steve Pocock welcoming guests to the Membership Benefit Stand.

34. Pleased to welcome D’arta and guests.

35. Getting to know you general reception 36. Warm welcome to Birds Eye and guests.

37. Kim Bonnelyke, David Speed and Adrian Carr, Lakeside Food Group.

38. Guests checking their table numbers with new member account executive, George Wells

33

34

36

35

37

38

43

The Bulletin ANNUAL LUNCHEON

39

40

42

41

43

39. Enjoying their reception room - Visual Foods.

40. Denise Rion welcomes guests of the Technical & Expert Group to the Luncheon.

41. Guests of the Commercial Team with their host, Paul Murray.

42. Kara Reception Drinks ready for their guests.

43. NFU Mutual 44. The Ice co.

41 44

MEMBER BENEFITS

HR SUPPORT & TAX ADVICE

...we’ve got you covered

Our HR support line is free for members and the key features are:

Exclusive to Members of the BFFF is this extensive range of member benefits. Our priorities are to add value or to save money of industry relevant services for members.

Membership of the BFFF entitles companies to a range of services and benefits offered impartially to each individual member company. These services include specialist advice, representing and protecting the industry within Government and relevant organisations, marketing the benefits of frozen food and promoting major industry networking events across the country.

We are delighted to work with strategic member partners, Shakespeare Martineau, Quest Consulting, NFU Mutual, FEC Energy, Company Shop and SmithCarey who are all looking forward to working with members on these exciting benefits.

•

Advice line - Unlimited access to experienced HR advisors- call as often as you need to

•

Available 24/7, 365 days a year

•

Online support with over 350 free downloadable employment documents

•

Free HR Healthcheck

Why you need HR support: • •

Contracts of employment

•

Right to work in the UK

Flexible working

•

TUPE

•

Unfair dismissal

BFFF is delighted to offer this service through Quest Business Services. Get in touch to understand how they can support your business.

CALL NOW on

For more information on any of the benefits offered contact your Membership Account Managers:

0845 697 0413

Kate Miller Tel: 01400 664320 Email: katemiller@bfff.co.uk or George Wells Tel: 01400 283095 Email: georgewells@bfff.co.uk

CONTRACTUAL/ BUSINESS LAW HELPLINE

ENERGY, BROKERAGE & CONSULTANCY

We are delighted to offer members of the BFFF Free confidential, unbiased and exclusive access to this CONTRACT / BUSINESS LAW helpline.

FEC Energy, helping you buy, generate and save energy.

We advise on everything from buying and selling energy through to securing new connections and upgrades, wayleaves, energy regulation, compliance and energy efficiency; in fact, anything to do with energy. With a history spanning 50 years and a wealth of experience we are well placed to provide advice and support for our clients, many of whom we have worked with for over 20 years, Government departments, industry organisations, utility companies and manufacturers.

We help you get the: •

Best energy deal for your business

•

Most out of the incentives on offer and remain compliant

•

Best return on your renewables project and the most from Government subsidies and

•

Save money with energy efficiency audits CALL NOW on

0845 697 0419

This helpline provides BFFF members with access to experienced legal professionals for support on CONTRACT / BUSINESS LAW implications which covers general legal enquiries including advice on debt recovery, property, litigation both corporate and commercial As part of the helpline, each BFFF member will receive: •

Free 30 minutes’ phone consultation concerning any new legal matter

•

A discount of 12% against the standard hourly rates of the fee earners involved thereafter CALL NOW on

0845 697 0416

TRAINING SUPPORT

BREXIT SUPPORT

Dedicated commercial training support by industry professionals.

We are delighted to offer members of the BFFF Free confidential, unbiased and exclusive access to this BREXIT advice line.

Our BREXIT helpline provides access to experienced legal professionals for support on BREXIT implications which includes advice around immigration, contract support in relation to import/export of goods and support on trade implications relating to tariffs.

•

Exclusive to BFFF members

•

Bespoke 1 day non-residential course programme tailored to the needs of the industry BFFF Programmes:

As part of the helpline, each BFFF member will receive:

1.

Commercial Selling Skills

•

Free 30 minutes’ phone consultation concerning any new legal matter

2.

Effective ‘Account & Customer Management’

3.

Negotiating ‘Cost Price Increase’

•

A discount of 12% against the standard hourly rates of the fee earners involved thereafter

4.

GSCoP in Action (GCA approved)

CALL NOW on

0845 697 0410

•

Discounted rates for members

•

Free telephone support as part of each programme CALL NOW on

WORKING WITH YOU TO WIPE OUT FOOD WASTE

COMMERCIAL INSURANCE ADVICE Speak to us to get advice on the wider insurance market and changes that could impact your business by calling our skilled professionals.

•

Free service to BFFF members

•

Confidential and impartial review of your current insurance provision

•

Identify gaps in your current cover

•

Improve your risk profile

CALL NOW on

0845 697 0414

0845 697 0412

•

•

The UK’s largest redistributor of surplus food & household products.

Stopping 70m items per annum going to waste •

Including: Overproduction, Short date code, NPD, Unfinished products, Retailer own label, Underweight, overweight, Labelling & packaging errors

•

Approval from all the main retailers to handle own label products in original packaging

•

Unlocking the FULL potential in surplus….

•

Financially, socially and environmentally

•

Dedicated Surplus Hotline

•

Free on-site Waste Prevention Consultancy Service

•

Free Corporate Engagement Days at Community Shop CALL NOW on

0845 697 0418

DEVELOPMENT PLANNING ADVICE As your business grows and site requirements change, new space is needed.

By offering a desktop consultation at the point that developments are planned, advice on a range of matters to avoid future complications can be considered.

THERMOGRAPHIC RISK ASSESSMENT What is thermography?

Electrical installations are made up of complex electrical components. As they start to age, they deteriorate and consequently may display elevated temperatures. If left undetected this can result in a catastrophic fire event.

•

Free service to BFFF members

Thermography is ideal for seeing what is visible beyond the naked eye.

•

Independent advice

•

Exclusive discounted rate for BFFF members

•

Objective review

•

Full report at the end of the survey

•

Avoid costly mistakes

•

Dedicated account management team

•

Free access to your e-report online

•

Highly trained surveyor

(You should still discuss any development plans with your current insurer) CALL NOW on

0845 697 0415

CALL NOW on

PRIMARY AUTHORITY

MAJOR INCIDENT GROUP

Primary Authority is a Government run scheme that helps protect businesses from unnecessary legal challenges.

First alert for major food safety incidents Following recent food scares and the necessity for members to receive prompt information relating to food safety issues, BFFF created our unique Major Incident Member Interest Group.

Members can take advantage of expertise in for the following areas: •

Health and Safety

•

Food Safety & Hygiene

•

Food Standards & Labelling

•

Weights & Measures

•

Fair Trading

•

Fire Safety

•

Access to a wealth of experience

•

Over 30 pieces of sector wide advice

•

Trade with confidence

•

Potentially save money

•

Free to join CALL NOW on

0845 697 0411

0845 697 0417

The key features are: •

Exclusive FREE service to members

•

Information gathered from a number of reliable sources

•

Information rapidly distributed in electronic format allowing informed and timely decisions to be made.

CONTACT: deniserion@bfff.co.uk

The Bulletin

BFFF Primary Authority Scheme

A Free Member Benefit Service What is Primary Authority?

Our Primary Authority partners are:

Primary Authority is a government run scheme that helps protect businesses from unnecessary legal challenges. It helps to ensure businesses operating in the food sector are doing so safely and legally.

Primary Authority is an extension of the old ‘Home Authority’ principle where your local authority and your business worked together to ensure you were on the right side of the law.

Government have recognised that enforcement and interpretation of legal regulations was sometimes variable in its approach, and that many businesses operated outside their own local area, so in 2009 they launched the Primary Authority scheme.

The vision for Primary Authority is to allow business to ‘trade with confidence’ throughout England. Once you have Primary Authority advice signed off within a registered partnership, your operating practices can’t be challenged by any other enforcement authority.

Types of Partnership There are 2 types of Primary Authority scheme; direct and coordinated.

Direct partnerships: A direct partnership with a Primary Authority can look at your specific policies or operating procedures on site and assure themselves that you are operating within the law. In effect they endorse your operations and policies. Given their legal status as a Primary Authority partner this advice then has legal backing for your business.

How Can the BFFF Scheme Benefit Your Business?

•

We can facilite access to a wealth of experience and understanding of the scheme.

•

Over 30 pieces of sector wide advice - additional advice driven by member requirements.

•

BFFF do all of the administration for setting up a scheme for you just contact us and we will do the rest.

•

Trade with confidence - no unnecessary enforcement queries.

•

Can potentially save you money.

•

Free to join – as it’s free why wouldn’t you?

Member Testimonials

Co-ordinated partnerships: BFFF operates a co-ordinated Primary Authority scheme and we have an expanding range of sector-wide advice. This partnership operates in the same way as the direct partnership but you don’t need to deal with the Primary Authority directly, BFFF does that for you. You can also rely on this advice as it also has the legal backing for your business.

Why Join the BFFF Scheme Now? The national Primary Authority Scheme has just been amended and relaunched. Up until now it has been difficult for all but the biggest businesses to have both co-ordinated and direct partners but recently this has changed. Now any BFFF member can benefit from advice, whether it is tailored to your business or sectoral advice put in place by BFFF. Don’t worry if you were signed up to the BFFF schemes before, it all still applies.

[A series of unique BFFF schemes are available for Fire Safety only, please contact us for more information.]

What Expertise do BFFF’s Partners Have?

Over the past few years BFFF has worked with a number of local authority experts. We have chosen our partners with care based on their knowledge of the sector and expertise in each of the specialised areas: • • • • • •

We have found the advice from our partners to be consistently practical and sympathetic to the views of the industry, whilst they all have first class knowledge of the relevant legislation. More information about BFFF’s PA partners and their expertise can be found on our website, here: http://bfff.co.uk/members/primary-authority/

Health and Safety Food Safety & Hygiene Food Standards & Labelling Weights & Measures Fair Trading Fire Safety

“Having access to a resource such as the PA scheme with BFFF has meant that our business has always had a route to obtain advice on such subjects as and when was needed.

The advice has always been delivered concisely, quickly and was no more complicated to request than writing an email. This has allowed our business to trade confidently with customers on technically difficult areas while avoiding additional costs which are sometimes associated with obtaining third party assistance.”

“We have used the PA almost since its inception for Fire Safety Advice. We have used our annual visit to verify that the Fire Risk Assessment has been completed / reviewed and remains compliant. We have also used the service to argue a point with our insurers, who were asking for unnecessary improvements. I cannot fault the service, you would be ill advised not to make use of it.”

“These initiatives led by BFFF have led to reduced risk for our business/greater confidence to operate in a grey legislative area and has saved time and money on queries being raised in these areas.”

For further information please contact:

Denise Rion Email: deniserion@bfff.co.uk Dir Tel: 01400 664319 48

update

From Paul Murray, Head of Commercial.

More new members

The last eight weeks has seen an influx of membership activity and we are very pleased to welcome six new members to BFFF.

I would like to welcome Noble Foods Ltd which is a leading supplier of fresh food brands to major retailers and consumers offering a nationwide service from their cutting-edge packing centres and sustainable farms.

Barnsley College – a college of further education that boasts a full and varied range of courses for its students. Its catering and hospitality departments offer both full and part time courses along with apprenticeships with the catering and hospitality facility.

Holmesterne Foods which is a leading food manufacturing company with a focus on supplying only the fine food products to their partner customers in retail, manufacturing and Foodservice.

Barnsley College is very pleased to be our partner college for support of the judging of the BFFF Product Awards in conjunction with The Craft Guild of Chefs.

FEC Energy - a full service energy supplier that can help you with everything from buying and selling energy through to securing new connections and upgrades, energy regulation, compliance and energy efficiency.

Allgaier UK Ltd. which specialize in refrigerated/temperature-controlled movement of foodstuffs between the UK with Germany, Benelux and Northern Switzerland with special security systems (door alarms) on the trailers giving the availability to track and trace shipments.

Jungheinrich (UK) Ltd is a leading manufacturer of materials handling equipment that provides advanced end to end intralogistics solutions to businesses.

In this issue, we are please to feature the profiles of recent new members Fresh Move Logistics Ltd., Procuro Euro Limited and Cargostore.

For membership enquiries please contact: Kate Miller Tel: 01400 664320 Mob: 07793 499871 Email: katemiller@bfff.co.uk or George Wells Tel: 01400 283095 Mob: 07921 405196 Email: georgewells@bfff.co.uk

49

New member profiles

MEM B E R SH I P

Kirk's Kebabs Limited Cargostore Worldwide

Cargostore one of the world’s fastest growing suppliers of ISO shipping containers and EstablishedWorldwide in 1990 andisincorporated in 2004, we started out as a kebab takeaway in Skegness.

DNV 2.7-1 certified CCUs for on and offshore projects.

Due to great success, we began supplying other local kebab houses and the business simply grew from there.

With offices in London, Abu Dhabi, Holland and depots across the globe we pride ourselves on providing a seamless and fast service with Now we supply many wholesalers throughout the UK and Europe, with the flexibility to meet any client requirement. the same great taste of our original Kebabs we made by hand when we first started.

Our Offshore Division provides a complete range of Cargo Carrying

Who do you work with/for?

We work with many wholesalers, businesses and international food suppliers such as Bidvest / Bidfood.

“ Cargostore Worldwide is the leading supplier of Why haveUK’s you joined BFFF? ISO shipping containers for We're looking to form more successful partnerships with food suppliers anddomestic distributers throughout country and Europe. andtheinternational projects. ” “We started out as a kebab takeaway in Skegness. Due to great success, we began supplying other local kebab houses and the business simply Contact grew from there.”

Units (CCUs) to service the oil, gas and offshore renewables industries, What do you do? project movers and offshore supply companies. All equipment is designed, 2.7‐1ofstandard. have invested We supplybuilt bothand Rawcertified Kebabsto in DNV a variety Sizes andWe Flavours from in a wide range offshore CCUs and these are Hand available via Kebab our 15lb to 60lb andof also our Authentic Pre-Cooked Sliced location in theofUS Gulf, the North Sea, the Arabian Gulf, Middle Meat to anetwork wide range businesses and wholesalers.

Without doubt East and West Africa. the biggest growth has been in our Authentic Hand Sliced Cooked Kebab Meat. Such a delicious versatile product.

Our Intermodal Division supplies ISO certified storage and shipping containers for hire or sale and we offer bespoke container conversions for special projects.

What’s your USP? Cargostore has offices globally with staff that collectively speak over 12 languages; enabling us to providekebab the very best in customer service Consistent high-quality pre-cooked meat products that save for oursave clients worldwide.

With constant availability, faster delivery and time, costs and reduce waste to practically zero. local representatives the Cargostore motto of Global Reach, Local With these you don’t needrenting expensive or highly Touch is ourproducts way of making buying, and machinery modifying ISO shipping trained staff; It isDNV a highly simple Re-heat Serve containers and 2.7-1 versatile, certified Offshore CCUs aand quick andProduct. simple process.

Website: www.cargostore.com Email: sales@cargostore.com

Contact Tel: : 01754 763097 / 07770 461124 Website: kirkskebabs.co.uk Email: john@kirkskebabs.co.uk

Where are you based?

Skegness

50

Freshmove Logistics Ltd

Freshmove Logistics Ltd is a vibrant and growing business in the heart of Milton Keynes, with a hub in Manchester.

Specialising in temperature controlled & time critical logistics; we are proud transport providers to both the food and pharmaceutical sectors.

We have a fleet of high spec vehicles and a team of 30 + drivers ready to service the whole of the UK.

We are proud to offer complex logistical solutions to a number of high profile food brands and restaurant chains.

With such specialised cargo we offer a bespoke service to all our customers; whether it’s frozen, chilled or ambient our team is trained to ensure products reach their destination in a timely fashion and in pristine condition.

Our temperature controlled warehouse also allows customers to store their goods with us and benefit from our picking and packing expertise.

Using the latest tracking and POD technology we are able to offer our customers access to live tracking so they can monitor their delivery anytime and anywhere. Our paperless invoice system provides customers with secure invoices electronically stored whilst we work towards increasing sustainability.

We are proud to offer complex logistical solutions to a number of high profile food brands and restaurant chains.

Contact phone: 01908 239053 email: Info@fresh-move.com website: www.fresh-move.com

As a company that is eager to grow, diversify and lead the charge in logistical innovations, we see our membership of the BFFF as crucial to forging important relationships and working with those who have a shared vision of the future.

51

Procuro Inc.

‘Procuro Inc. is a software and services company that specializes in Cold & Supply Chain Management solutions for the Food, Pharma and Chemical industries.

We have a world-wide presence with offices in San Diego, USA (HQ), Dublin, Ireland and Guangzhou, China. Procuro offers a series of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions under the PIMM™ (Personal Information Management Monitor) & iPIMM™ brands which provide cold & supply chain monitoring, product traceability and end to end visibility for our customers and their supply chain partners. As primarily a software solution provider that also has hardware partners, we develop new applications to help our customers monitor and improve all aspects of their cold & supply chains. Many of our applications have been inspired by some of our current customers (Burger King, McDonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut, Wendy’s, Meyer QSL, Gordon Foodservice, Reinhart Foodservice, Unilever, McCain) to alleviate the common headaches they experience in their day-to-day operations. Our mission is to automate, intelligently notify and provide practical analysis regarding our customers operations.

PIMM™ offers temperature monitoring Hardware (data loggers & telematics systems) and tracking management solutions designed for each stage of the cold/supply chain – ‘The Farm to Fork’ concept.

PIMM™ solutions combine good science with sound operational procedures to ensure quality control of your products, assets, and processes. See how a PIMMified connected cold/supply chain can help you and your partners reduce costs, improve operational efficiencies, extend product shelf life and ensure proper temperature control at all times.’

Procuro offers a series of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions under the PIMM™ & PIMM™ brands which provide cold & supply chain monitoring, product traceability and end to end visibility for our customers and their supply chain partners.

Contact +353-1-9036857 - +353-86-4481517 email: dmccoy@procuro.com website: www.procuro.com

From transport partners to solicitors, suppliers to retailers, The Bulletin industry services directory is your goto guide for member services. Featured this edition is: BOC

NFU Mutual

53

53

Industry services

The Bulletin

Ice fishing

Capture the quality and moisture in your fish and seafood products with cryogenic freezing from BOC.

k od.co.u a o f c o b t th Visi chat wi a e v a C or h f the B O o r e b m em am at Food Te c.com o food@b

BOC Limited The Priestley Centre, 10 Priestley Road, The Surrey Research Park, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XY, United Kingdom Tel +44 1483 579 857, Fax +44 1483 505 211, www.BOConline.co.uk BOC Limited registered office, The Priestley Centre, 10 Priestley Road, Surrey Research Park, Guildford, GU2 7XY, England. Number 337663 – English Register. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, register number 715528. BOC is a trading name used by companies within The Linde Group. The BOC logo and the BOC word are trademarks of Linde AG. CRYOLINE® is an EU-registered trademark of The Linde Group. Trademark registrations and their status may differ from one location to another.

Copyright © 2018. Linde AG. BOC/609315/UKS/1118

IN DUST RY S E RV IC E S

SECTOR

Industrial Gases and Engineering

BOC Limited BOC is experienced in delivering food grade gases, equipment and expertise to the food industry.

As part of the Linde Group, BOC brings Linde’s leading engineering capabilities to the UK with the CRYOLINE® range of cryogenic food freezing and chilling equipment, and provides gases and expertise for Modified Atmosphere Packaging. With a dedicated team of field and in-house food specialists and our Food Technology Centre at Thame in Oxfordshire, BOC works closely with the food industry to develop and deliver diverse solutions for your freezing and chilling, modified atmosphere packing (MAP), cooling and dry ice needs.

CONTACT DETAILS

ADDRESS The Priestley Centre, 10 Priestley Road, Surrey Research Park, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XY, England WEBSITE www. bocfood.co.uk TEL 0800 111333 EMAIL

KEY TEAM MEMBERS Graham Schneider, BOC Food Team, Senior Sector Specialist Food

55

food@boc.com

YOUR EXCLUSIVE SET OF MEMBER BENEFITS Delivering value beyond insurance to BFFF members DEVELOPMENT PLANNING ADVICE Desktop review of new build or site extension plans to highlight any potential risk areas and insurance implications that may impact on future premiums. To book, call: 0845 697 0415.

THERMOGRAPHIC RISK ASSESSMENT Bespoke plan of Electrical Thermography assessment to help reduce risk factors. Conducted with little or no disruption to business, this service is available at favourable rates. To book, call: 0845 697 0417.

FUNDED ACCESS TO EXCLUSIVE EVENTS Keeping you and your teams informed on industry best practice and legislative developments, ranging from Crisis Management to experiencing a mock Employers’ Liability Trial. For information, email: corporate_enquiries@nfumutual.co.uk.

COMMERCIAL INSURANCE ADVICE Access to free insurance market advice and a confidential insurance programme review and gap analysis of existing insurance arrangements. To book, call: 0845 697 0414.

The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No.111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. A member of the Association of British Insurers.

IN DU ST RY S ERV IC E S

SECTOR

Insurance

NFU Mutual Corporate Insurance The food and drink industry is complex and ever changing, with many challenges currently facing its businesses – from reducing waste to labelling and other regulatory issues, and of course there is the potential impact of Brexit on the workforce.

NFU Mutual is an insurance partner that understands these issues. Our years of building up knowledge of the food and drink supply chain, combined with our specialist expertise can help manage your specific risks.

Customers are at the heart of what NFU Mutual does. By investing time in getting to know your business and its needs, we can recommend the right solutions for you. In turn, this enables you to focus on growing your business in strength and confidence.

approach. Our clients are directly connected to specialists in our dedicated Corporate Insurance division, including our awardwinning Claims team, and through us to a range of third party expertise. From our risk management services, rehabilitation programme and counter-fraud capability, to our panel solicitors that handle matters of litigation on your behalf, we are able to add real, tangible value throughout our relationship with you.

Our business ethos remains rooted in our values as a mutual. As we don’t answer to shareholders, we are focused on looking after your business needs and can reward the loyalty of our members.

As a result of our unique insurance proposition and enduring partnerships, on average our clients have stayed with us for over 10 years.

Building a long-term relationship with each customer is the foundation of our

CONTACT DETAILS

ADDRESS Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 7BJ WEBSITE www.nfumutual.co.uk TEL 01789 412 569 EMAIL corporate_enquiries@nfumutual.co.uk

KEY TEAM MEMBERS Beccy Richards, Client Engagement Manager Rob Palmer, National Sales Manager Jason Raven, Head of Corporate Insurance

57

The Bulletin

T EC H NICA L & L E G I S L AT I V E

From head of technical, Denise Rion

update

Food contamination in the grocery supply chain

The risk of food contamination and spoilage is a serious issue for suppliers, third party logistics (3PLs) operators and retailers especially with the recent publicity surrounding the tragic death of a teenager exposed to a food allergen not immediately labelled on packaging.

There is an ever-present risk of the possibility of cross-contamination during transit and careful consideration must be given to which food products are being transported together, the risk of breakage and spillage onto other products and the subsequent handling of such items throughout the supply chain and at the point of storage and/or sale.

was treated under their care from the point of collection, possible storage and through to delivery. Depending upon whether this involves ambient, chilled or frozen food products, such records will need to include: •

Pre-load operation and inspection - cleaning regimes

In the event of an incident affecting a consumer, the retailer will be looking to pass the issue down the supply chain and both the supplier and 3PL operator will need to show that they have robust procedures and processes in place and that this is backed up by relevant documents.

•

Pre-load trailer inspections by drivers and loaders – beyond the safety of the load itself and the potential for load movement during transport and the possibility of breakage, spillage and cross-contamination. Driver training needs to be far more detailed around these potential issues

Equally, both retailers and suppliers will also want to see that these documents and processes are adhered to as part of their due diligence.

Every aspect of the supply chain will come under scrutiny.

•

Refrigerated trailer pre-planned maintenance and records

•

Temperature and humidity control records during transit – Telematics is now commonplace to assist with evidencing this

3PL operators will need to be able to demonstrate how the product

58

The Bulletin TECHNICAL & LEGISLATIVE

•

Breakdown and business continuity plans – what happens when there is a vehicle or trailer failure and how do you ensure that the product has been maintained at a safe temperature – back up systems and batteries?

•

Process for dealing with breakage, spoilage and handling procedures to ensure the integrity of other products is maintained

•

Cross-contamination avoidance procedures – especially with regard to manual handling and the risk of food allergen contamination of non-allergenic products.

prosecution together with the very large fines that can be imposed as part of the recent uplift in sentencing guidelines.

A failure to have the necessary procedures in place and have these fully documented places any business at risk with their brand reputation and commercial contracts.

There is an ongoing issue with the lack of availability of LGV drivers with all 3PL operators competing with a small pool of qualified drivers which is insufficient to satisfy demand. This can lead to delays in goods being transported on time and/or being held for longer than anticipated in storage depots. Loaded refrigerated trailers have also been seen standing in yards under charge because there is no available driver or tractor unit.

Consider the following scenario: Fresh tuna is packaged for retail sale and loaded onto a refrigerated trailer for distribution to store outlets. Shortly after, there is an outbreak of alleged scombroid food poisoning following sales of the tuna.

Scombroid poisoning involves raised levels of histamine in the fish. It is tasteless, has no odour and is unaffected by cooking and consumption will likely result in a rash, fever and stomach pain. The retailer is now looking to pass on to the supplier and/or 3PL operator.

What evidence do you have to support safe transport and distribution?

How can you show that the issue is more likely to lie with either the factory processing or post-delivery storage?

Unless you have the appropriate procedures and processes in place and you are in a position to evidence this with the necessary documents as set out above, you and your insurers may be looking at a significant cost for claims, stock loss and possibly product recall.

All of these issues also give rise to the possibility of regulatory interest, enforcement and the additional negative publicity surrounding any

Attribution: Ivor Long is the Head of Technical for the Food and Drink sector strategy at Keoghs. He has handled claims, litigation and large loss matters for retailers, manufacturers and food/drink logistics companies for many years and is an expert in food contamination and illness claims. He is also a legal adviser and committee member with the IOSH Food and Drink Group and conducts advanced training in practical accident investigation and claims defensibility.

Keoghs is the leading provider of claims-related services to insurers, businesses and other suppliers to the insurance sector. You can find out more about Keoghs at https://keoghs.co.uk/ and Ivor can be contacted on 0203 436 2366

59

The Bulletin

H EALTH + SAFETY

From head of health & safety, Simon Brentnall

update

Government urged to put mental and physical first aid on an equal footing An open letter to the Prime Minister signed by more than 50 leaders of some of Britain’s biggest employers including PwC, Royal Mail, WH Smith, Mace, Ford and Thames Water has called on the government to prioritise its manifesto pledge to amend health and safety legislation to put mental and physical first aid on an equal footing.

Paul Keenan, CEO, Bauer Media UK and European Radio, said: “The impact of neglecting mental ill health in the workplace is two-fold: both an economic and human cost which we have the opportunity to alleviate.

Signed by industry leaders from across business, education and mental health, this call comes at a time when one in six people of working age will experience mental ill health including depression, anxiety or issues relating to stress. With over 28 million people in work in England, this represents nearly 5 million people. Mental health issues are also estimated to cost the UK economy almost £35 billion every year and 15.4 million working days are lost to work-related stress, depression or anxiety.

“By investing in the physical and mental health of our people we will not only unlock human potential in the workplace but reduce astronomical costs to the economy. It is imperative the government takes notice of UK employers and the public who are standing up and calling for change.”

Fionuala Bonnar, chief operating officer, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England said: “This open letter shows that business leaders clearly recognise the need to support their employees’ mental health in the same way they do their physical health.

The open letter follows the delivery of a petition of over 200,000 public signatures to 10 Downing Street as part of a mental health campaign called ‘Where’s Your Head At?’ founded by Natasha Devon MBE, MHFA England and Bauer Media, which has received cross-party backing. MPs from across the political spectrum originally showed their support for the issue by signing an Early Day Motion tabled by Norman Lamb MP in October 2016.

“The change in legislation we are calling for will establish a baseline for protecting mental health in the workplace, ensuring no one is left behind. This is just one part of improving approaches to workplace mental health, but it represents an important step forward. Ensuring that first aid support is there for the millions of people who struggle with their mental health every year will make a big difference to how we all think about our health as a whole.”

60

The Bulletin HEALTH & SAFETY

More flexible working hours for over-50s “Age-friendly workplaces are good for businesses, and an inclusive working environment encourages people to succeed in all aspects of their life, building resilience and reducing workplace absenteeism.”

In a recent survey, some 78% of over-50s said that more flexible working hours should be introduced to accommodate older workers and benefit from their wealth of experience.

According to the Centre for Ageing Better, halving the ‘employment gap’ between workers aged 50 to state pension age and those in their late 40s could boost GDP by up to £20 billion per year.

Andrew Ormiston, a personal shopper at Tesco’s online business, returned to work for three days a week after 14 months’ unemployment.

He said: “The worst thing about leaving full-time employment is the abrupt full-stop.

“Once you bust out of the cycle of full-time working mindset, you do see the benefits of flexibility. Flexible working at least gives you the chance to phase yourself out without looking as if you are winding down. And, if worked properly, can be beneficial to everyone.”

"Employers have an invaluable role to play in meeting the needs of older workers and we want to encourage employers, where possible, to adopt flexible working practices, which is why we have established a new Flexible Working Taskforce."

The survey of more than 12,000 older people, commissioned by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, found they wanted employers to introduce more age-friendly policies to keep people in work longer.

Introducing more part-time roles (73%) and offering training to help with new technology and skills (63%), were the most popular ways that employers could be more accommodating for over-50s.

The government is currently looking at introducing a duty for employers to consider whether a job can be carried out flexibly when advertising a role.

“More employers than ever are recognising the benefits of hiring older job applicants for the wealth of experience and knowledge they have to offer,” said small business minister Kelly Tolhurst.

“Through our modern Industrial Strategy and our Ageing Society Grand Challenge we want to champion the role of older workers in the economy and ensure they have equal opportunities to both remain in and to find employment, so anyone who wants to can work for longer.

“Employers have an invaluable role to play in meeting the needs of older workers and we want to encourage employers, where possible, to adopt flexible working practices, which is why we have established a new Flexible Working Taskforce.”

The Flexible Working Taskforce was launched in the spring to promote a wider understanding of the benefits of flexible working practices, develop action plans and make recommendations that will feed into the evaluation of the Right to Request Flexible Working Regulations in 2019.

Jane Gratton, head of business environment at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “With nearly three-quarters of UK businesses struggling to fill job vacancies, it makes sense to actively recruit and retain older workers and harness their skills, experience and work ethic.

61

The Bulletin MEET THE TEAM

Meet the team

In this series The Bulletin catches up with one of the BFFF team. This edition we spend five minutes with...

Siobhan O'Callaghan Admin controller

How long have you worked at Who inspires you?

BFFF? I joined at the end of November and settled in straight away.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I am an organiser, so I enjoy having a list and striking things off. Being PA to John means I can fully utilise my natural ability to facilitate and enable him to carry out his leadership for BFFF.

What is your favourite colour?

That varies on what season of the year it is.

Right now, it’s black and metallics.

What do you like to do at the weekend?

Having 2 small sons, most of my time is taken up fulfilling their social events and chauffeuring them around! However, I love cooking so often spend time trying out new recipes. I find it incredibly relaxing and couldn’t think of a better way to spend my time.

Starter and main or main and dessert?

Starter and Main. I am more of a savoury girl, and usually find you have far better choice with starters. Desserts tend to be repetitive.

Jamie Oliver. His passion about food education, in particular, his drive in changing the way our children are fed, as well as their understanding of where food comes from and the importance of a healthy diet is something to really be admired.

Do you have any hobbies?

When the weather is right I enjoy a good country walk. It doesn’t always have to be sunny, sometimes wrapping up in a scarf and coat, putting your wellies on and venturing out on a fresh sunny autumn day does wonders for your soul. I have recently started a book club too, rotating the choice of book around the group is a great way to read books you may not have chosen yourself.

What is your biggest achievement?

This is a daily achievement, keeping the kids alive and kicking

What is your favourite place?

Ireland. My family are Irish (the name is a giveaway). I spent most summer holidays during my childhood there between Co Meath and Co Galway, roaming fields, climbing mountains, tending to horses and cooking Soda Bread with great aunts. I visit friends and family there at least 3 times a year.

If you could invite one person round for dinner, who would it be and what would you eat?

My sister. She loves a bit of grub just like me. I would probably make a Malaysian Curry, and a lemon posset for dessert to clear the pallet.

62

Siobhan uses her natural talent for organisation to make sure BFFF is a smooth sailing ship.

Celebrating PRODUCT EXCELLENCE across the frozen food industry

EARLY BIRD OFFER AVAILABLE UNTIL 22nd FEBRUARY 5% DISCOUNT www.bfff.co.uk Headline Sponsor: Product Awards Sponsor:

This offer is subject to full payment received by 28th February 2019

DATES

The Bulletin

The Bulletin

f o r y our

DIARY

2 01 9 7th February

BFFF Annual Conference & People Awards Birmingham Hilton Metropole www.bfff.co.uk

Find out the future of frozen food.

7 February th

Technical Seminar Birmingham Hilton Metropole www.bfff.co.uk

Keep up to date with the latest technical news

7th February

Health & Safety Seminar Birmingham Hilton Metropole www.bfff.co.uk

Keep up to date with the latest H&S news

17th-20th March IFE ExCel London www.bfff.co.uk

The UK's largest food and drink event

7th-9th May

Seafood Expo Global Brussels Expo, Belgium www.seafoodexpo.com/global

The world's largest seafood trade fair

16th May

Frozen & Chilled Foods Golf Day Carden Park, Cheshire contact: Richard Cogan Tel: 01732 868288

Social event.

21 -22 May st

nd

PLMA Amsterdam, The Netherlands www.plmainternational.com

The world's largest private label trade show.

13th June

BFFF Dinner Dance & Annual Product Awards Evening London Hilton on Park Lane www.bfff.co.uk

The definitive awards for the frozen food industry.

25 - 26 June th

th

TCS&D Exhibition East of England Arena, Peterborough www.bfff.co.uk

The UK's only event for perishable product supply chain.

27th June

Fire Safety & Composit Panel Event Waddington email: simonbrentnall@bfff.co.uk

Combination of theory and practical sessions

64

22nd August Thinking of joining BFFF Leicester Racecourse www.bfff.co.uk

Tind out about becoming a member of BFFF

5th-9th October

Anuga Kolnmesse, Cologne, Germany www.anuga.com

Leading trade fair for food and beverages

26th November

Annual Luncheon London Hilton on Park Lane www.bfff.co.uk

Top networking event for retail and foodservice

For more information on any of our events or to book tickets, please call: 01400 283090 or email: jillywallis@bfff.co.uk

visit us at bfff.co.uk

MEMBER BENEFITS BREXIT SUPPORT

TRAINING SUPPORT

CONTRACTUAL / BUSINESS LAW

DEVELOPMENT PLANNING ADVICE

COMMERCIAL INSURANCE ADVICE

THERMOGRAPHIC RISK ASSESSMENT

PRIMARY AUTHORITY

WORKING WITH YOU TO WIPE OUT FOOD WASTE

CALL: 0845 697 0412

CALL: 0845 697 0410

CALL: 0845 697 0415

CALL: 0845 697 0416

CALL: 0845 697 0414

CALL: 0845 697 0417

CALL: 0845 697 0411

CALL: 0845 697 0418

ENERGY, BROKERAGE & CONSULTANCY

MAJOR INCIDENT GROUP EMAIL: deniserion@bfff.co.uk

HR SUPPORT & TAX ADVICE

CALL: 0845 697 0413

CALL: 0845 697 0419

...We’ve got you covered

In partnership with:

The Bulletin

27,000 Attendees

e t s a T A w o r r o of Tom To book your stand contact: daniel.gray@freshmontgomery.co.uk +44 (0)20 7886 3056 ife.co.uk

66

111 Countries