Supplying
1 North Lynn Business Village, Bergen Way, King’s Lynn, PE30 2JG
Tel: 01553 770 444
Email: sales@foodcaresystems.com www.foodcaredirect.com
NEW YEAR GREETINGS
from Barry Wells
I do hope you have all enjoyed a successful December and New Year events. I’m optimistic the winter months to Easter will not be too challenging. Thinking positively, those customers who still have disposable income will continue to eat out, spending what they can before the Chancellor grabs it, not to mention overcoming the ‘Winter Blues’.
Knowing we’re facing higher payroll, January will be a month of serious head scratching on how to best mitigate rising costs generally. Competition to fill pubs and restaurants is likely to be fierce. Winners will be those establishments who take a fresh look at their menu and presentation, not to mention improving service.
Supplying the healthcare industry is a significant part of our business. We are always in awe of their tireless work, which we continue to support including sponsoring and membership of the NACC and HCA. Give a moment’s thought to residential care homes and the NHS grappling winter flue and other nasties.
Once again, we bring you interesting news and I take this opportunity to wish all our customers and suppliers a successful 2025.
SUCCESS AT BILLINGSGATE FISH MARKET
Article by Sarah Stone
Part of my voluntary role with the NACC (National Association of Care Catering) is to help organise and support the three regional meetings a year, for members in the South East Region. We finished this year with our Winter Seminar at Billingsgate Fish Market with a “Come Cook with Us” theme. The aim of this seminar was to get everyone cooking, preparing food, and taking away ideas to implement in their care homes for residents to enjoy.
We started the day at 6am with a tour of the historic fish market. We then split into three groups which rotated round three cookery classes - a fish master class hosted by the infamous CJ Jackson also known as The Fish Boss, a 50/50 alternative class using Quorn Pro and fish to make fishcakes, followed by a
dessert’s masterclass with Brakes and how to make the most of dry store ingredients.
Each class offered tastings, tips, advice, and the opportunity to take away the dishes made on the day. We also covered low sugar options plus textured modified versions for those living with swallowing difficulties. We had a fantastic day cooking together, learning, and sharing skills. The day was finished with a hot lunch and mulled wine wishing everyone a wonderful festive season.
On this occasion I was accompanied by my sales office colleague Julie Moore, who thoroughly enjoyed the event and experience. We wondered though why companion travellers kept their distance on the train home, was it something we said?
CARE UK CHEF OF THE YEAR 2024
Article by Joe Wells
It was an absolute privilege to present the prize for the Care UK Chef of the Year to Adrien Henard of Chandler Court Care Home.
To claim this prestigious title, Adrien had to demonstrate exceptional knowledge of creating a nutritionally balanced meal, skilful use of ingredients, beautiful presentation, and, most importantly, a great-tasting menu.
This competition is incredibly challenging to win. Having served as a judge in one of the regional heats, I was truly impressed by the skill level on display. You could easily mistake these talented chefs for Michelin-starred professionals, and I wouldn’t be surprised if some go on to achieve those accolades.
It’s an honour to sponsor this event, and congratulations to all who participated. I’m already looking forward to next year’s competition!
Article by Claire Racher
Recently, we donated surplus coffee stock to two vital local charities: the Foodbank and the Night Shelter.
The Foodbank ensures no one in our community goes hungry by providing three-day emergency food parcels and in-house advice services. Their efforts rely on donations and community support.
The Night Shelter offers emergency accommodation and support to those
https://kingslynn.foodbank.org.uk/
experiencing homelessness in King’s Lynn and West Norfolk. Without government funding, they depend on the generosity of local supporters.
At Christmas, our team at Foodcare was proud to continue supporting the Foodbank by donating additional food and household items.
For more information on these amazing charities, visit their websites:
https://klnightshelter.org.uk/
SPOTLIGHT ON THE MILL KITCHEN
Article by Claire Racher
Once known as the Lavender Lounge, The Mill Kitchen is a must-visit destination any time of year, but especially in summer when the nearby Norfolk Lavender bursts into bloom - a stunning signal that you’re close to the coast.
Foodcare has proudly supplied The Mill Kitchen with high-quality GenWare Terra Porcelain crockery, tableware, cutlery, and glassware for over two years. Manager Sarah appreciates our outstanding service and Sales Manager Sarah Palmer’s prompt communication. Conveniently located nearby, Foodcare is always on hand to answer any
requests. The partnership began in 2021 when owner Mark Wilson enlisted Foodcare to supply Seasons crockery to his other establishment, Fishers of Hunstanton.
Open seven days a week, The Mill Kitchen welcomes new and many returning visitors, serving everything from breakfast to Sunday lunches. Be sure to enjoy their incredible year-round specials, including two meals for just £25!
Visit their website for more information: www.norfolklavenderlounge.co.uk
SAVE ON SEASONS
Article by Claire Racher
This January, enjoy 7.5% off the entire Porcelite Seasons range - a perfect opportunity to refresh your dining presentation.
Porcelite Seasons offers a handcrafted studio pottery look, giving a rustic edge to both casual and fine dining. Crafted from professional vitrified porcelain, each piece is hand-decorated for a unique and individual finish. Designed for the rigorous demands of hospitality environments, this durable
crockery also suits dining at home. Plus, every item is dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe - combining practicality with style.
Presented in a palette of eight complementary colours, the collection is inspired by the vibrant shades of the changing seasons. The extensive colour choices are perfect for mix-and-match combinations or cohesive table settings, offering unlimited presentation options.
https://www.foodcaredirect.com/crockery/porcelite/seasons/
