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Natural selection Catering for operators large and small, Florette’s fresh approach is delivering new products and forging exciting partnerships.
ALL YEAR ROUND Beginning in France back in 1987, Florette launched into the UK in 1991, pioneering the fresh prepared salad market. The business comes from three farmer-owned co-operatives, merging together to form a member base of 12,000 farmers. The commitment is clear: to deliver quality and freshness in everything they grow. “Florette’s foodservice range has been created to meet the needs of culinary teams across all channels of foodservice, said Gwyn Jones, head of commercial. “We may be biased, but our products are the best around for freshness, vibrancy, taste and year-round availability. The new range is manufactured in a dedicated foodservice facility here within the UK, allowing us to focus on and deliver the strict technical parameters that our foodservice customers require. “Our reputation within the retail sector helps to boost our credibility and positions us as a key brand within the category. That’s why we’ve been working successfully within the foodservice arena for many years and have an excellent track record. In recent times, we’ve been approached by more customers looking for quality products that they can rely on, to mitigate the risk of service and quality issues due to increased climate and supply chain challenges. “The bespoke range of products is backed by the expertise, resilience and quality assurance of our parent company, Agrial Fresh Produce.”
THE EYES HAVE IT Of course, things have changed since the late eighties, with the modern consumer demanding much more from products – and the operators themselves. “The rise of visual social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram has changed behaviours and piqued an interest in vibrant, flavourful and cultural foods,” continued Jones. “This is apparent both at home and eating out, so when it comes to salads, people want exciting dishes, packed full of leafy greens and fresh vegetables with a protein-packed topping. “A topic on everyone’s lips right now is ultra-processed foods. We’re seeing an increase of diners who are more aware of what they eat, alongside the nutrients contained within the meals themselves. “Salads are naturally good for us, as they offer a yearround source of vitamins, minerals and fibre. Chefs should ensure menus are packed full of colourful salads – including lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber and coleslaw mixes – to keep up with consumer expectations and behaviours.” DRIVING FORCE Florette has been supplying major UK QSR operators for many years – both directly and via other manufacturers within sandwiches and prepared meal formats. It launched a new foodservice range late last year, available via Bidfood/Oliver Kay produce. “We have a host of strong partnerships within the
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