HIGH-QUALITY SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING
Viscose is a leading UK manufacturer of shrink sleeves and distributor of caps. They serve a wide range of sectors such as food, drink, pharmaceutical and gas. See more on page 14 Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Company of the Year
Metsä Group announces shortlist for 2025 Sustainability Awards
Metsä Group’s tissue paper business, Metsä Tissue, in partnership with the Cleaning & Services Support Association, is pleased to announce the shortlist for its 2025 Sustainability Awards.
The deadline for submitting entries for the 2025 Sustainability Awards passed on 30th September 2024, with an exceptional 91 entries received from 46 companies. Nominations were submitted across all five categories and all were automatically entered into the Judges’ Choice.
After months of careful deliberation by the judges panel, the shortlist for the three best entries in each specific award category, in alphabetical order, are as follows:
Positive Climate Impact Award:
● Altum Technologies Ltd
● Landmarc Support Services Ltd
● Mindful Chef Ltd/Naked Sprout Ltd
Social Value Impact Award:
● Egal
● No Going Back Cleaning and Support Services
● The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and NWL Procurement Services
Best Sustainable Marketing Campaign Award:
● Bunzl Cleaning & Hygiene Supplies Ltd
● Mitie Ltd
● The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Sustainable Collaboration Award:
● Birkin Group Ltd/Lime Supply Ltd
● Chamberlaine Cleaning Services Ltd
● Landmarc Support Services Ltd
New Sustainable Innovation Award:
● Altum Technologies Ltd
● BioVate Hygienics Ltd
● Shaanxi ORCA Electronic Technology Co. Ltd (ORCAUBOAT®)
All entries will also be considered for the Judges’ Choice Awards, which will recognise the best achievements at both national and regional levels.
The winners of all awards, including the Judges’ Choice Awards, will be announced at the 2025 Sustainability Awards ceremony, which is being held on 19th March 2025 at The Pelligon in Canary Wharf, London.
About the 2025 Sustainability Awards
The Sustainability Awards were founded in partnership with the Cleaning & Services Support Association (CSSA) in 2023 with the aim of shining a spotlight on sustainability across the cleaning and hygiene industry.
The 2025 Sustainability Awards ceremony will be held at the Pelligon in Canary Wharf in London, on 19th March 2025. Tickets are now available to purchase from the website: (https://2025sustainabilityawards. com/request-tickets)
Metsä’s 2025 Sustainability Awards nominated charity is The Hygiene
Bank – https://thehygienebank.com
For further information on the 2025 Sustainability Awards, please visit the website –www.2025sustainabilityawards.com – or contact Denise Nee by telephone on: 0845 601 8266 or by email at: denise.nee@metsagroup.com.
About the Cleaning & Services Support Association
The CSSA is run by the Cleaning Industry for the Cleaning Industry. It exists to help businesses Grow, Comply, Change and Innovate. They do this through their accreditations, recognising greatness, key events, online and offline business advice, and having government representation.
Metsä Group https://www.metsagroup.com/ metsatissue
Metsä Group’s Tissue and Greaseproof Papers business, or Metsä Tissue, produces hygiene products for households and professionals, and greaseproof papers for food preparation and packaging. Our high-quality locally produced brands – Lambi, Serla, Mola, Tento, Katrin and SAGA – make daily life cleaner.
We promote a diverse, equal, and inclusive culture. Our 2023 sales were EUR 1.3 billion, and we have approximately 2,500 employees. Metsä Group’s parent company Metsäliitto Cooperative is owned by around 90,000 Finnish forest owners.
Follow Metsä Tissue: LinkedIn | Instagram
Award winning, alcohol-liberated wines
In this issue of Food & Drink Matters, we are pleased to feature Zeno Wines as our Alcohol-Free Wine Company of the Year
ZENO was founded by wine experts David Hodgson and Will Willis, who developed new techniques to enhance flavour & texture of alcohol-free wines, with a leading Master of Wine. In 2022, ZENO’s alcohol-liberated wines were born.
2024 was a great year for ZENO. Despite challenges in the trading environment, the company thrived in the UK market, laying the groundwork for its UK on-trade strategy. David explained:
“Our strategy kicked off in October 2024, with a collaboration with Fullers Pub Group, launching and promoting ZENO through their estate. We also partnered with KORE Drinks to boost in-market sales activation to grow distribution in the broader on-trade channel.”
“We believe our consumer base is rapidly increasing due to consumer’s greater interest in wellness and overall reduction of alcohol intake.”
“New vintage 2023 still and NV wines were bottled in December, and we also implemented a refreshment of the ZENO brand which started rolling out in January 2025 so we’re in a great position with fresh stock and new look for 2025.”
Hoping to continue its success into the
global NoLo market, ZENO launched in the USA in January 2025, and has also recently secured a national retail listing with Finland’s ALKO Monopoly.
As the only alcohol-free wine brand to be awarded in the Great Taste Competition with ZENO Tempranillo Cabernet also taking a coveted 2-star award, we asked David what more can we expect from the brand.
“We are consolidating ZENO UK distribution, pushing further into the on-trade channels and working with existing distribution partners to deepen understanding and engagement of ZENO and the NoLo segment as a whole. The message we are pushing is the understanding that alcohol-free wines don’t just taste like grape juice with a tendency for sweetness. We’ll also be working more with Great Taste as it embraces all things food & drink, and we have also commenced plans for launching a ‘next level’ ZENO Red project, code named ‘Virtues,’ which will be a barrel aged Tempranillo made with gastronomy in mind-rich, full bodied and sophisticated!”
“In terms of product changes, we have further reduced the residual sugar across the board. All of our wines are now just 18g/L, besides ZENO Tempranillo Cabernet at 21g (down from 25). It takes lot of work to get the palate balance right when reducing RS, but we got there. Less sugar is better for wellness and for food pairing.”
Zeno may be a young brand, but its dynamic impact and innovative products have exploded onto the NoLo scene, making them an already household name in the industry. Zeno alcoholliberated wines are
particularly food friendly, with sophisticate texture and low residual sugar levels. Furthermore, this new partnership with KORE DRINKS will help to provide education and training to build on-trade confidence when recommending alcohol-free alternatives.
In closing, we asked David how he felt being selected for this award.
“I’m extremely grateful for this acknowledgment. From the outset, our philosophy was to redefine alcohol-free wines and raise the bar on quality.
The ZENO brand embraces ZENO the philosopher’s four virtues –Moderation, Wisdom, Justice & Courage – which underpin everything we do. This award endorses our vision, gives us and the NoLo segment visibility, and drives us to do more.”
For more information, please see below: M 07730 942015 info@zenowine.com https://zenowine.com www.linkedin.com/company/ zenowine
David Hodgson MBA, Founder & CEO of ZENO – Prestige alcohol-liberated wines
Rondanini: The UK’s leading importers of fine foods
Rondanini are one of the UK’s leading importers of fine foods. Established in 1989, the company is now part of the Vita Food Group an Anglo Italian food manufacturing and food importer. They emphasise tradition, quality, innovation, and partnership, aiming to provide tailormade solutions for their clients. Whether it’s developing new products or solving logistical challenges, Rondanini prides itself on flexibility and exceptional service, catering to both retail and foodservice sectors.
Rondanini, who proudly represent the Italian food tradition, recently faced a growing consumer demand for more sustainable packaging solutions. As they prepared to launch their new pizza range,
in partnership with Franco Manca the pizzeria chain, they sought to align their product offerings with eco-conscious values. As a leader in providing sustainable film solutions, we were immediately on hand to help.
Collaborating closely with Rondanini to develop a fully recyclable film, together we ensured that their new pizza packaging would meet both the highest quality standards and sustainability goals. The transition was seamless, allowing Rondanini to maintain the freshness and integrity of their product while embracing environmentally responsible practices.
With our expertise, Rondanini can now offer their customers not just authentic, high-quality fresh pizzas but also packaging
that reflects their commitment to a greener future.
This partnership reflects Rondanini’s core values: innovation without compromise on quality, and a focus on meeting evolving consumer needs. By teaming up with National Flexible, Rondanini continues to deliver delicious products, now with packaging that’s as sustainable as it is functional.
T 01274 685566 marketing@nationalflexible.net https://www.nationalflexible.co.uk https://www.rondanini.co.uk
Looking for high-quality, sustainable, and eye-catching packaging? At National Flexible, we specialise in flexible packaging solutions that help brands stand out. From food to pharmaceutical packaging, we offer cutting-edge materials, eco-friendly options, and expert guidance to bring your products to life.
Trust the UK’s leading specialists in flexible film packaging. Quality, innovation, sustainability – that’s National Flexible. Please visit
Contact: 01274 685566
Email: marketing@nationalflexible.net
That’s a wrap!
The much-anticipated Good Food Show Winter 2024 returned to the NEC in Birmingham on the 21st-24th November.
The doors burst open on 21st November to 40,000 food obsessed visitors who stepped into a festive wonderland, experiencing the joy of the season as top chefs including James Martin, Tom Kerridge, and Jane Dunn of Jane’s Patisserie shared their top seasonal recipes, across multiple LIVE cooking stages.
At the heart of the Good Food Show Winter 2024 was the Big Kitchen, a place where visitors enjoyed unforgettable experiences as top celebrity chefs and experts cooked up a storm live on stage. The star-studded line-up included top chefs like Michael
Roux, Matt Tebbutt, Lisa Faulkner, James Martin, Gennaro Contaldo, and even former Olympic Gold Medallist, World and European Athletics Champion
Greg Rutherford who since his athletics career has gone on to become a truly successful motivational speaker, live event host and TV presenter. The Big Kitchen was hosted by Marcus Bean, whose raw energy and charisma captivated the audience, as he participated in assisting top chefs in creating their mouth-watering dishes. Ensuring every session was fun, engaging, and exciting for the crowd, Martin was a real hit, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
The 2024 show welcomed a BRAND-NEW stage‘Good Food Kitchen’ hosted by Barney Desmazery, that featured the Good Food Magazine team and star contributors who shared live demonstrations and culinary tips on how to get ready for the festive season. The stage was free to attend and throughout the day visitors experienced planet-friendly recipes from Max La Manna, Dr. Chintal Patel, food writer
Hot Lao sauce that will fly off your shelves!
Ona mission to raise awareness of Laos & Lao food, Yoyo, founder of Yoyo Laos Sauce has created a delicious range of sauces that have been on the receiving end of multiple Great Taste™ Awards and accreditations since 2022, with her original ginger chilli sauce scooping the overall winner at the UK National Chilli Awards!
Each flavour derives from Lao cuisine, which has a rich diversity of freshness and flavour that is still yet to be discovered by much of the UK. With the Sauces & Condiments market in the UK projected to grow by 4.18% between 2025-2029, there is no better time to partner with Yoyo Laos Sauce.
“Let’s talk flavours!”
Yoyo sauces are produced in both the UK and Laos using only the highest quality, all-natural ingredients with no artificial preservatives. What’s more, all sauces are gluten-free and vegan too.
The ginger-chilli range includes, mild and extra hot versions in addition to the original which is medium to medium-hot. For those who like their sauces a little hotter, Yoyo’s latest creations, the Luang Prabang Special & Pineapple, Chilli & Roasted Pepper certainly raise the heat level!
In addition to her sauces, Yoyo’s Bolaven Salted Green Pepper is also perfect for adding to noodle dishes or salads and was recently awarded 3 Stars at the 2024 Great Taste Awards.
Booths & Selfridges are already on-boarding Yoyo products. If you’re also interested in stocking, contact Yoyo below: hello@yoyolaossauce.co.uk https://www.yoyolaossauce.co.uk
The ‘Christmas Kitchen’ had everyone feeling festive, sponsored by Franklin & Sons, it was hosted by Chris Bavin who really put on a festive treat featuring new culinary talents and plenty of recipe inspirations.
Visitors also got hands-on with some Winter Workshops that included everything from Cocktail Masterclasses, to Knife Skills, and even ‘How to Create Festive Slaw with Sam Goldsmith.’ It was the perfect place to shop till you drop, with hundreds of artisan producers offering unique gifts, festive decorations, foodie delights that included exquisite chocolates, artisan cheeses, and premium wines, as well as top-of-the-line cookware.
The Good Food Show Winter 2025 will take place from 27th-30th November at the NEC in Birmingham.
https://www.goodfoodshow.com/winter
and baker Chetna Makan, and the famous glutenfree queen herself, Becky Excell.
A taste of Orkney
If you’ve spent the day stretching your legs on a spectacular coastal walk, spotting puffins and maybe even whales along the way, or you’ve immersed yourself in thousands of years of history, culture and creativity, exploring everything from Neolithic monuments to the workshops of skilled artisans, chances are you’ll have worked up quite an appetite.
Its fortunate then that Orkney, well known as a destination packed with attractions and activities for the visitor, also boasts some of the finest food and drink produce in the country.
The diversity of Orkney’s food and drink is remarkable, particularly when you consider this is a community of just over 21,000 people. All the traditional produce is there, from the famed beef,
lamb, shellfish and salmon to the cheese, oatcakes, fudge, ice-cream, whisky and beer, but recent years have seen a huge surge in new food and drink ventures in Orkney. Rum, gin, chutneys, jams, smoked fish, speciality butter, handmade chocolates and sourdough pizzas are just some of the more recent additions to the islands’ ever-expanding food and drink community.
Many of the Orkney’s food and drink producers have also become attractions in their own right –the Orkney Brewery, Orkney Distillery, Deerness Distillery, Highland Park Distillery and Scapa Distillery all have visitor centres or experiences for the visitor to enjoy.
There’s an Orkney food and drink trail too. It’s still in its early stages – the strict regulations around
food production don’t always allow for visitor access – but if you can’t see it being made first hand, you’ll find it on sale nearby. There’s no shortage of locally produced food and drink in Orkney’s shops, and on the menus of the county’s fabulous cafes, restaurants and street food outlets.
You could, in theory, just visit Orkney to enjoy its food and drink, but it would be a shame to miss out on all those pristine beaches, the wildlife, the history, the festivals and the crafts. There’s also something special about spending time in a place where the pride and passion of local food and drink producers, and the retailers and hospitality providers who support them, is so evident.
Take a trip to Orkney and, along with a warm welcome and days packed with memories, you’ll discover food and drink producers who are enormously proud of the part they play in enhancing their homeland’s reputation as an unrivalled destination for visitors.
Find out more at: www.orkney.com
Orkney Food & Drink represents the islands’ leading producers, whose expertise combines the finest natural harvests of the land and sea with the highest production standards.
We are a membership organisation responsible for bringing mutual benefits to the Orkney food and drink industry through joint representation and promotion at a local and national level.
Our aims are to promote the continued development and growth of Orkney’s food and drink industry by supporting a commitment to quality and members’ efforts to maintain the highest standards with regards to sources of raw materials, production facilities, manufacturing processes and human resource development.
Did you know Euroby has been supplying equipment to a broad range of food and drink applications for over 15 Years?
Euroby is the exclusive UK supplier of Polat separation equipment for the Food and Beverage markets.
The foodstuffs industry offers many applications for mechanical separation and the Polat centrifuges that Euroby offer are in manufactured accordance with international quality standards and expectations of the UK market.
Euroby centrifuges are established at the heart of many process lines worldwide. They are used in dairy processes and are efficient and economical for the separation of milk, cream, whey, yoghurt, quark, fresh cheese together with bacterial removal and butter making.
Euroby centrifuges work well in wine and beer clarification achieving products with consistent taste.
Our centrifuges are specially designed for
each application and are economical and efficient.
We also supply centrifuges which also provide separation solutions for both plant and animal proteins with 2 and 3 phase solutions operating in meat and fish applications.
Euroby centrifuges are also used to process food product waste streams, recovering product, reducing environmental impact and generate savings in overall effluent costs.
We offer:
● High-performance separation
● High-value products
● Reduced waste management costs
● Low energy consumption and carbon footprints
● Low maintenance costs
● Low capital cost.
Interested? Email Lee Blake at Euroby on: lblake@euroby.com, call: 01903 694400 or visit: www.euroby.com
High-quality sustainable packaging
In this issue of Food & Drink Matters we are pleased to feature Viscose Closures Ltd as our Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Company of the Year
Viscose has been a leading manufacturer of shrink sleeves in the UK for over 125 years, achieving remarkable milestones that have shaped its legacy. Three of these milestones occurred in 2024 when Viscose marked its return to key industry tradeshows for the first time since before COVID-19, re-launched its brand, and launched its online shop. To top off the year, it was named runnerup for SME Manufacturer of the Year at the Swansea Bay Business Awards.
During this period, Emma Blackmore stepped into the role of Managing Director, and the company also made significant investments, upgrading equipment and investing over £500,000 in factory improvements. These enhancements have not only modernised operations and improved working conditions but also safeguarded jobs, retaining highly skilled workers and a loyal local workforce.
To gain further insight into the company’s progress and sales over the past year, we spoke with Seren Pontin, Marketing & Brand Manager.
“We have a fantastic team that delivered improvements across our factory: reduced lead times, increased OTIF and delivered cost savings to allow us to remain competitive. 2024 results were favourable vs forecast and stable YOY with a continuing improvement in EBITDA. Our business has managed to thrive despite the economic challenges of the last few years, and
has adapted to the changing packaging needs of consumers.”
“We have also invested £100k in Solar panel technology (2023) - on average 30% of all our electricity is now produced from these. We achieved and maintain BRC AA* grade status in our heat-shrink sleeves department AND we recently started our compostable accreditation journey for our Plastic-free shrink sleeves.”
Viscose’s plastic-free shrink sleeves are among its most popular products, and they are set to launch in Australia following the recent onboarding of an Australian distributor. Seren shared insights into the company’s standout product:
“Demand for sustainable and eco-conscious packaging is at an all-time high. As the world’s only producer of cellulose cut bands, our sleeves are a unique tamper evident packaging solution for eco-conscious producers. Moreover, our sleeves are crafted from sustainable wood pulp, making them biodegradable, and homecompostable. Designed to enhance both product and brand presentation with a superior finish, they also feature a unique heat-free, self-shrinking capability –shrinking at room temperature within an hour. This makes them ideal for heat-sensitive contents while simultaneously reducing energy consumption and costs.”
Viscose may be a small company, but its global impact has been incredible. As agile problem solvers who think outside the box and make quick commercial decisions – which is crucial in FMGG, they trade with over 50 countries and evidently compete with businesses more than three times their size.
Excited for what’s ahead, we asked Seren what can we expect from them in the next few years.
“In the short term, the business is positioned for and focused on growth, we want to take our offering to new markets via additional distributors, growing our online platform and implementing an external sales team.”
“Our biggest project for 2025 is gaining the OK Home Compost accreditation for our Plastic-free shrink sleeves providing additional credibility to allow us to enter new markets. In the longer term, we have several NPD projects that will deliver new services and products to our existing customers.”
7th-9th APRIL 2025 NEC BIRMINGHAM
The UK Food & Drink Shows return this April full of innovation, inspiration and expertise
30,000 visitors and 1,500 exhibitors will come together in April for the ultimate event in the UK food and drink industry calendar
UK Food & Drink Shows brings together businesses from across the grocery, hospitality, specialist retail and manufacturing sectors to network, see the latest innovations and gain invaluable insights.
This year's event, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from Monday 7th to Wednesday 9th April, comprises four shows that each target a sector of the food and drink industry:
● Food & Drink Expo provides buyers from retail, hospitality, wholesale, foodservice and manufacturing with information and product sourcing opportunities. To reflect the growth in the UK eating out market and continued blurring of the lines in the food and drink sectors, The Restaurant Show is this year integrated into Food & Drink Expo.
● Farm Shop & Deli Show brings together hundreds of suppliers to showcase the best of local and speciality produce to retailers and buyers.
● National Convenience Show provides a platform for the convenience retailing sector to come together, from suppliers and wholesalers through to retailers.
● Foodex Manufacturing Solutions is the UK’s leading trade event for the food and drink processing, packaging and logistics industries.
With around 1,500 businesses exhibiting across the four shows, visitors will have the chance to sample the latest food and drink creations and examine business solutions including services and equipment.
Once again, UK Food & Drink Shows will feature a packed programme of expert
speakers, insightful panels and inspiring demonstrations on topics and trends that are driving the industry.
One focus for 2025 is shining a spotlight on women shaping the food and drink industry, with individual panels featuring female leaders in hospitality, convenience, manufacturing and grocery.
The evolution and innovation of the UK Food & Drink Shows is one reason it was last year crowned ‘Best UK Tradeshow more than 8,000 sq. m.’ in the Association of Event Organisers Excellence Awards. That innovation continues this year with the introduction of a host of new themed areas:
● Future Food Zone will highlight exciting on-trend categories such as keto, kombucha, fermented foods and CBD to reflect growing consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable options.
● Coffee Zone has been launched in partnership with The London Coffee Festival and will play host to the latest innovations in the coffee industry, from top roasters, alternative milks and the most sustainable cups.
● Packaging Zone will be a one-stop shop for businesses seeking solutions to their packaging and plastic challenges, with an emphasis on sustainability.
● Business Advice Hub, a dedicated area providing exhibitors and visitors to the show with access to free business advice and services.
Also new for this year will be two dedicated street food areas serving a wide selection of exciting dishes and snacks to visitors.
Competitions will again be a big part of the UK Food & Drink Shows line-up, with judging for the popular Britain’s
Best Loaf and Britain’s Best Cake contests taking place live at the event. The winners of the highly respected Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards will be announced at the show, and visitors can also see - and probably sample - the winners of the Farm Shop & Deli Product Awards.
To ensure visitors make the most of their visit, an online digital event companion will offer a comprehensive event guide, interactive floorplan, seamless indoor navigation and real-time notifications.
UK Food & Drink Shows is organised by market-leading business information provider William Reed. Covering industries ranging from food and drink to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, William Reed publishes digital and print media including The Grocer, and organises prestigious awards, business events and conferences.
“We look forward to once again welcoming visitors and exhibitors to the UK Food & Drink Shows in April,” said William Reed exhibitions managing director Andrew Reed.
“At a time of continuing challenges in the shape of high input prices and rising employment costs, alongside the pressure on consumer spending, the shows offer an opportunity to gain invaluable insight and inspiration. From expert panels and presentations to face-to-face meetings with peers and industry associations, the UK Food & Drink Shows can help equip your business with the tools to flourish.”
To find out more and register for free tickets visit the UK Food & Drink Shows website: https://www.ukfoodanddrinkshows.co.uk
UK FOOD & DRINK SHOWS PREVIEW
Bartec Paper and Packaging: Food Packaging Specialists
Welcome to Bartec Paper and Packaging, we are a secondgeneration family business established over 50 years ago. Sourcing the best food packaging materials from around the world and then converting the raw papers into bespoke food packaging solutions in our custom-built factory in Northwich.
We supply a wide range of markets, Confectionery, Dairy, Bakery, General Food & Non-food ranging from a loyal range of valued customers from small delis to well-known global brands. Regardless of size, you are guaranteed the absolute best in customer service and expertise.
Here at Bartec Paper and Packaging, we offer versatile food packaging solutions to meet your unique needs. Whether you need sheets or die-cut shapes, we’ve got you covered throughout the UK and Europe. We pride ourselves on our flexibility and we are able to offer quotes for any order size or fixed prices for larger annual volumes. We collaborate with trusted partners to provide first-class printing and coatings. Our expertise in specialist materials and bespoke service sets us apart. Join leading chocolate houses, bakeries, and household brands in the food industry who have trusted us for many years. With our sampling service and trial process, we are committed to product development until the most effective material is found.
Rest assured, our materials are sourced from dependable suppliers, and we believe in quality materials not cheap imports all converted and shipped from Cheshire.
BRCGS ‘AA’ rated and FSC accredited you can rely on us to keep the highest standards!
Bartec are your go-to experts for all your packaging needs. We have an extensive range of sheets and die-cut shapes (we have bespoke tooling made to your needs if we do not have a size or shape in stock) no request is too much of a challenge.
We are committed to consistent research and development to improve our offerings and efficiency and with that in mind have added two new machines to our production line for 2025: A Platen press for faster die cutting cushion pads for our confectionery Customers and a high speed 8-reel sheeter to enable us to increase production speeds and sheet more materials.
With the increased focus on sustainability and recyclability we are always looking at new materials to help our customers, Alongside Ovtene recyclable film which is popular amongst our Cheese, Dairy, Fresh Meat and Bakery and Fish customers and available printed in up to four colours (subject
to minimum order) We have also recently introduced Metalvac – a 75gsm PFAS free metallised greaseproof into our range which is an eco-friendly fully recyclable alternative to standard Foil paper laminate – Ideal for Butter wrap or cheeses and suitable to be printed.
We turnaround orders in a timely fashion and will collaborate with customers to get the fastest possible turnaround without sacrificing quality.
Whether Greaseproof Paper, Siliconised, Cushion Pads, Waxed Paper, Duplex, Micro perforated film, Glassine Paper, Foil paper laminate, Die cut box liner, cruciform or tray for your chocolate box, we will find a suitable solution for your business.
You can Trust Bartec to look after your needs so let’s create sustainable packaging solutions together!
Contact T +44 (0)1606 354664 sales@bartecpackaging.co.uk https://bartecpackaging.co.uk
Treat your taste buds
In this issue of Food & Drink Matters, we are thrilled to announce that PEPPADEW® have been chosen as our Innovative Company of the Year
The origin story for this Powerhouse of a Pepper, began in South Africa. In the Northeastern province, there are vast mountain ranges across the Highveld plateau, breaking up the large Lowveld plain below it. Over 25 years ago, a new pepper was discovered in the hills of Limpopo. This bright red pepper –the later named Piquanté Pepper – was identified with an exotic and individual flavour. As a result, the first Sweet Piquanté Pepper was born. Since this pivotal moment, PEPPADEW® has exploded onto the world stage and remained in demand in over 25 countries.
PEPPADEW® has cemented itself as market leader in the food sector over the years, with honours being awarded from across the industry. In 2024, PEPPADEW® were awarded Silver in the Starters and
Buffet Category and won the Foodservice Innovation Award in The British Frozen Food Awards. This was recognition of the unsurpassed PEPPADEW® Bites that have delighted consumers since inception.
The explosion of PEPPADEW® Bites has been exponential. One of the more recent expansions has been its inclusion on the coveted Slug & Lettuce Menu range. The Slug and Lettuce franchise has over 70 venues across the UK and the PEPPADEW® Bites were classed as a squad favourite.
PEPPADEW® Bites have also made an impact on the Euro’s. The Sports Bar and Grill included the tasty treat over the Summer and PEPPADEW® Bites were presented as a tasty alternative treat for football fans to enjoy.
To create the quality product that PEPPADEW® has achieved, the manufacturing capability needs to be second to none. The PEPPADEW® factory in WesternSuper-Mare, where the PEPPADEW® Bites are made, was recently awarded the BRCGS Certification. This certification illustrates that a company is meeting the
necessary legal standards but – more importantly –adheres and upholds the highest standards of safety.
Simon Harris, Brand and Marketing Manager for PEPPADEW® explains, “The BRCGS standards are used in over 130 countries and sets the benchmark for exceptional manufacturing practices. The confidence that comes from gaining this certification is based on the rating system. These can range from uncertified all the way up to the AA for top of the range.
● BRCGS AA Rating: The highest standard for an announced audit, indicating exceptional compliance with food safety and quality standards.
● AA+ Rating: This is even more challenging as it is awarded only during an unannounced audit, meaning the company has no warning prior and must always maintain top-tier standards.
● Strict Compliance: BRCGS covers hygiene, food safety, traceability, hazard controls, and operational standards – even minor nonconformances can impact the score.
● Industry Benchmark: An AA+ rating is rare and often achieved by companies that have deeply embedded food safety culture and robust quality management systems.
PEPPADEW® achieved AA+.”
Simon continues, “Winning an AA+ BRCGS Certificate at the Weston-Super-Mare factory is an outstanding achievement for Peppadew®, reinforcing our commitment to quality and excellence. It sets the brand apart in the food industry and strengthens trust with retailers and consumers.”
It is not just PEPPADEW® Bites that have caused a buzz in 2024, as the Mac and Cheese Bites created a stir of their own. The National Restaurant, Pub and Bar Show – formerly the Casual Dining Show – awarded PEPPADEW® Silver in the Innovation Challenge. The judges said of them ‘Great idea, easy to use across many sectors. Really trendy, really appealing.’
Two pizzas from Dominoes, added The Sweet Piquanté Peppers from PEPPADEW® to their menu
as part of a trial of their Italianos range on two Pizzas – Supremo Salami and Gusto Goat's Cheese & Chorizo.
Within the Foodservice sector, PEPPADEW® introduced the addition of a 900g can for the Sweet Piquanté peppers. Whilst the 3kg can was still available and were kept fresh in brine for up to four weeks, the new smaller version gave buyers and chefs the opportunity to purchase the product in more frequency and confidence.
Whilst the accreditation for the manufacturing capability and the honours for the food service, the greatest gains for PEPPADEW® have been in the explosion in their retail achievements.
In 2024, PEPPADEW® launched five new products: Peppadrops®, Jalapeño Slices in a smoky brine, Jalapeño Halves, Chipotle Crunch and Onion Crunch. PEPPADEW® have become a staple with the major retail chains, with the Mild and Hot PEPPADEW® Peppers now available in Sainsbury’s, the Roasted Red and Piquant Peppers have been launched in Marks and Spencer’s, Mac and Cheese Bites are available in Aldi and Morrisons stocks the full range of PEPPADEW® products. Products such as these have also made for easier distribution and savings for the consumer, with a reduction from the 400g jar to a 260g jar. Overall, The PEPPADEW® Brand in 2024 grew by 44% across the Major Melts within the major multiples.
The awards however, still lauded the PEPPADEW® brand. Jalapeño Halves won a Silver at the Q Awards in the Cans, Jars and Pouches category, with the Onion Crunch winning Gold. These were the only two products to be awarded in this category whilst The Onion Crunch won Innovation of the year at the Q Awards. The Piquanté Peppers have gained
recognition as they were featured on Celebrity MasterChef, meanwhile Jamie Oliver used the Roasted Red in one of his TV recipes.
With the success of Peppadew® in 2024, PEPPADEW’s Simon Harris stated, “In 2024, Peppadew® showcased innovation, growth, and excellence – expanding into new retailers, earning top industry accolades, and delivering bold flavours to both consumers across retail and foodservice. From award-winning product launches to appearances in leading culinary showcases, Peppadew® continues to set the standard in taste and quality. This success is a testament to the incredible teamwork and collaboration between our UK and South African teams.”
It is for these reasons that Food and Drink Matters has awarded Innovative Company of the Year to Peppadew®, and we look forward to all their future successes.
For further information, please see the details below: T +44 (0)1372 502143 sales@peppaco.co.uk https://peppadewfoodservice.co.uk/ peppadew-bites
Foodservice website: https://peppadewfoodservice.co.uk
Consumer facing website: https://www.peppadew.co.uk
We supply our exceptionally high quality spelt products for retail sale, wholesale and direct to the bakery and restaurant trade
| White & Wholegrain Spelt Flour |
| Pearled Spelt |
| Flaked Spelt |
| Kibbled Spelt |
Spoon it. Spread it. Drizzle it.
In this issue of Food and Drink Matters, we are delighted to present Joy Spread as our Artisan Spreads Company of the Month
In 2014, a brother and sister duo decided to change the direction of their lives. Peter and Rita Lauer always had a deep love of gelato and after building an ice cream kitchen in Rita’s house the business quickly expanded to opening their first pizza/ice cream restaurant called LUSSO in Newbury in 2016. This was followed four years later with another in Didcot, strategically just 3 weeks before COVID hit.
Having weathered strange times, the siblings wanted a new challenge and after identifying a gap in the market, the concept of Joy Spread came up. Since the selection of spreads in retailers was all very much the same and without much recent innovation, the stage was set to shake up the spreads’ section!
Joy Spread essentially transfers the punchy flavours and unique textures of their favourite gelato into an
ambient spread. The aim was to produce the next generation of spreads, with luxurious flavours and exciting textures, unlike anything else.
Last summer, the spreads were unleashed onto the unsuspecting public via numerous foodie events with crunchy pistachio and crunchy coconut emerging as firm favourites. The overwhelming feedback was positive to say the very least, confirming mission accomplished, and with market research completed it was time to start focusing on wholesale.
The range now includes original crunchy pistachio, smooth pistachio, smooth and crunchy hazelnut, smooth and crunchy coconut, crunchy salted caramel and peanut, and crunchy chocolate hazelnut. Some of their spreads also cater to free from diets with options for the gluten free, vegan, lactose intolerant, with sugar free varieties in the pipeline.
Although the spreads can be enjoyed as a dessert in their own right, they also offer a variety of uses as topping sauces on desserts or as filling creams in pastries and cakes. Certainly, in their own restaurants the siblings use the spreads to fill croissants with pistachio, make hazelnut tiramisu, crunchy hazelnut & chocolate covered waffles, coconut cheesecake or salted caramel & peanut brownies. The options are truly endless.
Joy spreads are available in glass jars with a beautifully designed label and premium packaging –an elegant reflection of the exceptional quality Peter and Rita have carefully crafted. Customers at home can drizzle them on pancakes, porridge or ice cream, as cookie or cupcake fillings, or simply on their own with a large spoon!
Commercial sized tubs (1.3kg and 3kg) are also available to trade customers looking to elevate their delicious desserts or pastries to another level. Ideal for bakers, chocolatiers, delis, coffee shops, ice cream parlours, or at any venue where treats are offered.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Joy Spread has arrived! They are now ready to be stocked on retailers’ shelves in jars, or to compliment your current ingredients in your kitchen’s desserts section.
For more information, or to request samples, please visit below: www.joyspread.co.uk
Game-changing liquid dispense solutions
Quantexis the innovative leader in single-use, recyclable pump technology with a history rooted in product innovation. Owned by PSG, an operating company of Dover Corporation, Quantex’s mission is to innovate and improve its pump technology in order to drive big-impact, game changing fluid delivery solutions.
Many sectors benefit from Quantex’s unique attributes, providing hygienic, drip-free liquid dosing that eliminates cleaning and maintenance, with rapid changeovers that reduce downtime, as well as its ability to pump high viscosity products with particulates. From frozen beverage dispensing to refill machines in supermarkets, to dosing colour pigments into plastic resin manufacturing, this easy-to-use, innovative and compact pump technology has a valuable impact.
Quantex has collaborated with some of the world’s largest companies in the Food & Beverage sector, delivering bespoke, off-the-shelf disposable pumps with custom fixtures and fittings.
Liquid Dosing
To give an example of how its benefits help a specific application, let’s look at the demand for the food and beverage industry to add colour to its products during its manufacturing processes. Colour plays a crucial role in this market; it can influence consumer perception, enhance product appeal, and even create flavour profiles. As well as making a product more visually appealing, it can also be used to suggest flavour profiles, mask imperfections, and help comply with specific regulations.
Adding flavour and colourants to food and drink via Liquid Dosing is an area that Quantex is vastly experienced in. Take chocolate for example, a food where liquid dosing is often used during the basic manufacturing stages to help to create coloured chocolate shells, marbling, flavour-specific colours, as well as small doses of enhanced flavours like caramel sea salt, fruit infusions, and alcohol.
Coloured chocolate is a visually appealing product that evokes reactions from consumers but it is a highly viscous product, and the final viscosity of chocolate depends on how the chocolate is treated, it’s additional ingredients and how it is manufactured.
Quantex can easily handle the high level of viscosity associated with chocolate due to the advanced transfer capabilities of the pumps. Using a positive displacement rotary action, with high vacuum and high-pressure capability, Quantex pumps can dispense or transfer chocolate solutions at lower temperatures than the ability of many other pumps.
The Quantex QX25-HP, among all other Quantex pumps, is powerful enough to dispense viscous fluids across distances, including cooling areas, without damaging or curing the chocolate solution. And larger Quantex pumps like the QX100-HP can even pump particulates if the chocolate has small caramel pieces
Gillian Harding-Moore, Marketing Director
or salt/sugar crystals, fruit or nut pieces that are less than 4mm in diameter.
Quantex Bag-in-Box pumps can be attached directly to the product packaging containing the flavouring or colourant solution. Their design also allows for the pumps to be easily and quickly replaced along with each new pack which reduces downtime. The pumps minimise mess and wastage, with reverse cycling to stop drips, and high vacuum for better bag evacuation for less product waste.
Lastly, when adding flavourings and colourants to liquid dosing, difficulties can arise such as when partially full or empty packs are swapped out and replaced, remnants of colour or flavour could be spilt, causing stains on machinery, equipment, products, or people. These product spills could be hazardous, but could also leave long-lasting, undesirable stains as well as rising costs caused by wasted products. With Quantex pumps that attach directly to the liquid pack, these risks are dramatically reduced making it much easier, safer, cleaner and quicker to handle liquid colourant.
For simple operation, no drips, and pump reliability, please get in touch with Quantex below: T +49 (2065) 89205-0
info@psgdover.com
https://www.psgdover.com/quantex
BIG-IMPACT, GAME-CHANGING LIQUID DISPENSE SOLUTIONS
A REVOLUTIONARY, COSTSAVING PUMP SYSTEM
With over 128 global patents, Quantex brings a unique combination of features and capabilities never before seen on the pump market. Using the principle of positive displacement with a rotary action, this compact but powerful, high vacuum pump system dispenses high viscosities and concentrates, reduces product waste, stops drips and saves valuable equipment footprint. Designed for singlepack-use, Quantex’s versatile and hygienic pump system can eliminate cleaning, protect product integrity during airless dispense, greatly reduce maintenance and equipment operator training time – facilitating scalability and saving our customers money vs other pump systems. For simple operation, no drips, and pump reliability, get in touch with Quantex Today!
psgdover.com/quantex
LIQUID DOSING
Adding flavour and colourants to food and drink via Liquid Dosing is an area that Quantex is vastly experienced in. Take chocolate for example, a food where liquid dosing is often used during the basic manufacturing stages to help to create coloured chocolate shells, marbling, flavour-specific colours, as well as small doses of enhanced flavours like caramel sea salt, fruit infusions, and alcohol.
Syrup Meters: Titan Enterprises concentrate on ‘ultra reliable’ dispense solutions
Titan’s robust flowmeter technology is proving industry recommended in helping beverage manufacturers solve sticky situations.
Soft drinks are typically formulated from a combination of water (which may be carbonated) and a syrup flavouring. Soft drinks manufacturers such as Coca Cola, use a twin dispense system to carefully combine and control each fluid to the exact concentration, ensuring the quality and consistency of flavour that their customers expect.
ape2o and Chiltern Railways join forces to launch ‘Big Ape’: Water refill stations at Marylebone Station
Dispense systems assure consistent and accurate measures of syrup are supplied during the dispensing of each soft drink. For low viscosity syrups or flavour additives and the diluent being dispensed alongside, both can be controlled and monitored using a turbine flowmeter. Titan’s NSF-Approved 800 series and Beverage flowmeters are widely used within the food and drinks industry for this purpose. These meters are the industry proven choice of many being both effective and reliable flow sensors, with some manufacturers also using them as low-cost alternative flow switches.
As syrup increases in viscosity, positive displacement oval gear flowmeters are
used for accurate dosing. Due to the nature of syrup viscosities – sugar free syrup has a lower viscosity than full sugar syrup for example – oval gear flowmeters can address variable viscosity fluids to measure the rate of syrup flow. Where a higher level of accuracy is required, oval gear flow meters can also be calibrated specifically for the syrup type. Dispensing equipment software is then capable of switching between multiple calibrations for an individual flow measurement device, enabling multi-syrup dispense using a single oval gear ‘syrup meter.’
Visit Titan’s website: https://flowmeters.co.uk for further information on Titan’s range of turbine and oval gear flowmeters. To discuss a liquid flow measurement solution for your specific OEM application, please contact Titan Enterprises on: +44 (0)1935 812790 or sales@flowmeters.co.uk.
In an exciting and important development for a plastic free future, ape2o has today unveiled a partnership with Chiltern Railways to bring their pioneering water refill stations to Marylebone Station, marking a major stride towards eradicating single-use plastics in transportation hubs.
This is the first installation of a Big Ape in a major London station, underlining ape2o’s significant progress in fighting the war on plastic and emphasising Chiltern Railways’ commitment to reducing single use plastic across its network.
Big Ape’s bring the best people the best water on-the-go without destroying the planet. In partnership with Chiltern Railways, ape2o is now able to embolden their mission and convert more people to drink water without plastic. The partnership also highlights Chiltern’s broader ambition to modernise and green their operations by 2030.
Primates of plastic abolition and providers of the best water you can drink, Big Ape’s don’t monkey around. Not just any refill stations; they are a beacon of technological advancement,
offering chilled, ultrafiltered water – still or sparkling – at a fraction of the cost of plastic bottled water.
There is no time to lose: less than 10% of single-use plastic bottles are recycled, the majority ending their journey in our oceans or landfills, or being incinerated, contributing to over a quarter of a million tonnes of CO2e emissions annually.
And ape2o don’t just talk about it, they do it. 10% of all their sales go to ocean, freshwater, and marine life conservation and clean-up projects. The less plastic bottles used via Big Ape’s, the more these projects receive and the closer we get to a world without single use plastic. ape2o is water that gives back.
https://www.ape2o.com
Socials: @ape2o
Bullseye Food Packaging: Switch to sustainable packaging
Sustainable food packaging is now a ‘call to arms’ across the food sector, with ESGs neatly aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UK Government’s 2050 Net Zero Targets. For many, The Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) proved a defining moment, with enforced taxes now on imported or manufactured plastic that doesn’t contain at least 30% recycled plastic.
Switching from plastic to paper/fibre-based packaging Making the switch has never been easy. Bullseye Food Packaging is a market leader in sustainable meal packaging, driven by a passion to become ‘products of choice’ for farmers’ markets, butchers, cafés, delis, food manufacturers and takeaway outlets around the country and further afield. The Solihull-based, familyrun business was established in 2009 by founder Peter Prior and prides itself on an innovative product portfolio including its flagship product: film-sealable fibre-based ready meal trays. Customers receive free delivery on orders over £100, next-day delivery and a 10% discount on their first order.
Reasons to make the switch
There are numerous fiscal and environmental benefits enshrined with switching to paper pulp/plant fibre-based packaging from Bullseye Food Packaging:
● Enhanced Safety: Paper/fibre-based packaging remains robust when heated or frozen. There are no sharp edges (unlike foil/plastic) and can be removed with bare hands from the oven
● No leakage/spillage: Food trays have interior liners, preventing spillage and contamination.
● Portion control: Compartmentalised trays ensure controlled portion sizes – ideal for replacing a traditional helpyourself ‘buffet-style’ operation.
Spotlight on Bullseye Food Packaging: family values, global outlook
The family-run business started by supplying the care sector, namely the ‘meals on wheel’ industry. At first, the ‘safety’ aspect of the packaging was the main driver but over time, this was superseded by the push towards sustainability.
As Alex Prior, Sales & Marketing Director, explains, “We now work with a diverse range of sectors including high-street delis and, independent cafés, through to farmers, butchers and large food manufacturers. We offer a wide range of meal packaging systems and everyday consumables such as napkins, wooden cutlery and cups; for some businesses, having a single source of supply streamlines operations.
● Green product: Sustainably sourced paper/plant fibre packaging, which lowers transportation scope 3 emissions and costs due to its lightweight properties. The ready meal trays are recyclable or compostable, providing a complete green product life cycle.
● Flexibility: The FMCG is built on flexibility and this packaging is built for microwaves, conventional ovens and frozen temperatures down to -40°C; perfect for food on the go or for serving later.
“We’re making a difference globally too; our innovative approach to food packaging has enabled us to supply sustainable multicompartment meal trays to hard-working miners operating in some of the harshest conditions on the planet. They can now enjoy a hot meal, delivered to them at their place of work, rather than having to be bussed back and forth between central canteens, improving not just the workers’ satisfaction with their meals, but also efficiency on-site.”
Embracing an inclusive approach incentivised top celebrity chef Praveen Kumar to approach Bullseye to package his range of high-quality, restaurant-standard Indian meals. “We happily obliged and worked with him as his business grew from a home-based operation to a fully-realised high-capacity kitchen, modifying the production process as required and upgrading his sealing machinery to account for his business growth.”
Exciting new product launch
Towards the end of this year, Bullseye Food Packaging will be launching a range of new, fully sustainable food trays, designed for fresh meat from the butchers. They are made from sugarcane and bamboo fibre, and will replace traditional plastic and polystyrene trays, offering a vast improvement in quality and sustainability. They are home compostable and recyclable, and are even available with a homecompostable absorbent pad, for use with highmoisture products.
“We are really excited about this launch,” says Alex. “Behind the scenes, we have been working with longstanding, high-profile client: Aubrey Allen. Renowned for the finest meat, cheese and produce, the
Royal Warrant holders supply to the Royal Household amongst other distinguished guests. Aubrey Allen have been using these new food trays for some time and have remarked on the robust properties of the products and improvement in customer satisfaction. We will be marketing these new trays across the country in the coming months, alongside a fully compostable clingfilm wrap. We will be exhibiting at the Farm Shop & Deli Show at the NEC in April 2025, where you can see these new products for yourselves, or please contact us for samples and more information.”
Looking to the future
Bullseye Food Packaging is driving sustainability across the food packaging sector, in anticipation of a switch from plastic and foil to fibre-based packaging.
“It’s inevitable really. Fibre-based materials will become the default product of choice before long. The FMCG sector in particular is being driven by consumer-led action on sustainability best practice. It’s not just a trend or knee-jerk reaction, this has been a clear shift in consciousness: we need to be using regenerative packaging that is sustainably sourced. Consumers are now willing to pay more for sustainable packaging, signalling a green light to the food packaging industry.”
Make the shift today: chat to Bullseye Food Packaging about:
● Fibre-based film-sealable meal trays
● Fibre-based fresh produce trays
● Paper-based takeaway meal packaging
● Bagasse/sugarcane/ takeaway meal packaging
● Everyday consumables such as cups, straws and napkins
See Bullseye Food Packaging at the Farm Shop & Deli Show 2025: 7th-9th April, NEC Birmingham
To find out more, click here: www.bfpuk.com or contact: info@bfpuk.com.
Bluewater Kitchen Station wins coveted 2024 GOOD DESIGN Award
Sweden’s water and beverage brand Bluewater is excited to announce its Kitchen Station has been honored with a coveted 2024 GOOD DESIGN® Award, a prestigious accolade from the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design. This recognition spotlights Bluewater’s innovative approach to sustainable living and healthy lifestyles, underscoring its dedication to eco-friendly solutions and pristine water quality.
What makes the Kitchen Station standout? It’s not just a water purifier; it’s a game-changer. This compact solution transforms ordinary tap water into a crystal-clear, health-enhancing user experience.
“By stripping away all known toxic chemicals and contaminants and infusing the water with liquified minerals harvested from billion-year-old Swedish mountains, the Kitchen Station is setting a new benchmark in water purification and beverage technology,” says Bluewater founder and CEO Bengt Rittri, one of Sweden’s leading ecopreneurs. Featuring the Bluewater Spirit under-sink purifier, the Kitchen Station delivers up to 900 litres of purified water on demand, addressing consumer concerns about tap water quality with efficiency and flair.
The system’s unique mineral solution – dubbed ‘Liquid Rock’ by Bluewater – is delivered via an IoT infuser system steered via a smartphone app, allowing users to precisely adjust or dose the mix of minerals according to their taste preferences and wellbeing needs. Integrated into the system is the Bluewater O, a user-friendly control enabling easy switching between municipal water (for doing the dishes) and the purified re-mineralised water. The O allows users to visually check water quality by shifting from an orange shade during the speedy water purification process to an all-blue colour when it is fit to drink.
Bengt Rittri, Bluewater founder and CEO
Patrik Marusik, Bluewater’s Product Marketing chief, said he was thrilled at the GOOD DESIGN award. He commented, “The Bluewater Kitchen Station is a testament to our passion for healthconscious and environmentally responsible living. Winning the GOOD DESIGN® Award in such a competitive global arena is a powerful acknowledgment of our pursuit of innovation and sustainability. It captures the essence of a company committed to enhancing everyday life through cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design.”
Already available to consumers in Sweden, the UK, and the Middle East, the Bluewater Kitchen Station will launch in the USA in early 2025. This expansion is a significant milestone for Bluewater,
Patrik Marusik, Bluewater’s Product Marketing Chief
further cementing its role as a leader in the quest for a cleaner, greener hydration future. For modern consumers seeking to embrace a healthier lifestyle, the Kitchen Station offers a compelling blend of functionality and Scandinavian elegance.
“As Bluewater continues to innovate and expand its reach, the Kitchen Station stands as a beacon of what’s possible when technology meets a commitment to sustainability in an age when consumers are increasingly wary of the quality and safety of their tap water,” said Mr. Rittri.
For more information about the award winning Bluewater Kitchen Station, please visit the Bluewater website: https://www.bluewatergroup.com/en-gb
Your printer and label specialists
In this issue of Food & Drink Matters, we are pleased to feature The Label Group Limited as Printing & Labelling Company of the Month
accessories including label dispensers and rewinders.
Since 2004, The Label Group has been independently advising and supplying businesses of all sizes with high-quality labelling solutions. Founded by Simon Hann and later joined by his brother Stuart, the company has grown into a close-knit, family-run business, with additional family members joining over the years. Committed to exceptional customer service, The Label Group provides expert guidance and ongoing support to both new and long-standing clients, including retailers, manufacturers, and franchisees in the Food & Beverage sector.
The company supplies a complete service for labelling including label printers and software, consumables such as labels and tags, liner-less labels, ribbons, wristbands, RFID tags, and bespoke labels, it also has an extensive line of
“We can offer the complete labelling solution which other companies may not. This includes Printer, Software, and Labels,” added Stuart Hann.
The company’s printer range is vast and includes everything from Industrial printers to Desktop, Tag, Print Engines, RFID, Laser, and Mobile Printers. One of its bestsellers comes from the Mobile range – the FX3 standalone printer.
The award-winning SATO FX3-LX is a flexible, next-generation label printer that is suited to the food industry, retail, and restaurants due to its
highly-customisable application technology and ability to adapt to its environment. The FX3-LX’s Application Enabled Printing (AEP) platform allows the device to be used as a PC-less, online or standalone printer, giving users full autonomy when printing labels for sectors including food, retail and manufacturing. The device is also compatible with SATO Online Services (SOS) a cloudbased proactive maintenance solution that provides prompt support and eliminates unnecessary operational downtime, whatever the application.
The device’s intuitive printing applications are easily accessed via a 7-inch TFT full colour touch screen, which offers users the familiar feel of using a smartphone or tablet. If in doubt, users can choose from 14 pre-set training videos, which demonstrate media loading, parts replacement, option installation, cleaning and more.
Using a direct thermal printing method, it easily adapts to hygienic environments, comes with an optional WLAN / Bluetooth kit, and NFC function. For ease of use in the food sector, it can be operated with gloves, and even comes with an optional wall mount.
The SATO FX3-LX has proven to improve efficiency, productivity and reduce costs as well as optimise applications via SATO and SATO partners to meet the unique needs of a business. The device caters for multi-lingual clients and workforces with 47 printable languages and 31 user display languages. It is also compatible with eco-friendly liner-less labels.
The Label Group can work with you from the initial enquiry through to the end product offering a full turnkey solution that is completely bespoke to your requirements.
Contact T 01736 810334 info@thelabelgroup.co.uk www.thelabelgroup.co.uk
Deliver anywhere in the UK Tel 02887 784345 or email anthony.conroy@mackleapple.com
Purchase online or find a stockist near you www.bodyandmindbotanicals.com
Personalised bespoke packaging solutions for a range of speciality food sectors: Confectionery, Dairy, Bakery, Delicatessen & Fish
Get in touch 01606 354664 sales@bartecpackaging.co.uk www.bartecpackaging.co.uk
Machines for Food
Uniball Tumbler Mixer
Ideal for flapjack mixes and fragile products
Capacity 225 litres, 316 stainless steel drum, variable speed
The machines have been sold to clients using a range of different products as coating vegetables in oil, mixing medical powders, Bakery recipes, flapjack mix, mixing different nut types, marinating meat with sauces, mixing coffee beans, food ingredients, coating olives in flavours, flavours on nuts, pasta & mayo. Sold worldwide to USA, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Iceland and Europe. 01761 410345 | 01761 410332 sales@machines4food.co.uk www.machines4food.co.uk
