Catering@Booker Issue 14 - January 2024

CATERING @ BOOKER

AMERICAN-INSPIRED TAKEAWAY LIGHTS UP LIVERPOOL P L U S N E W C H E F ’ S L A R D E R F O O D T O S H A R E R A N G E , C A S H B A C K W I T H N C A S S , L O C K E D D O W N P R I C I N G , W O M E N @ B O O K E R N E T W O R K

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HIGHLIGHTS l CONTENTS

18

Chris van Hagen, The Ship, Christchurch

“We provide our customers with delicious affordable, Pan Asian gourmet food. Our team of Thai chefs have so much passion and their cookery is an artform. They learned their skills from their mothers and grandmothers and the result is intensely flavoured, beautiful dishes.”

23

Warren Titterell, Premier Caterers International

“We’ve catered for filmsets in Morocco, Vienna, Dubai, Croatia and many more.

I’ve even served food to actors and crew at the top of Pulpit Rock in Norway. No two days are ever the same; one day we could be catering in a studio and then next day we’ll be setting up a mountain.”

COVER SHOT

40

14

Maria Chittenden, Head of Transport, Booker

“Distribution and logistics is a critical part of the business and every part of the company relies on us. If we don’t do our job well, everything else falls down.

Fortunately I’m surrounded by a talented, experienced and passionate team. I like to think we do a fantastic job."

A unique twist on the Americaninspired takeaway concept at Umami in Liverpool has gone down a storm with customers in its first year.

CATERING@BOOKER SHARE YOUR NEWS If you've got news, tips or feature ideas, get in touch with Catering@Booker Email:Catering@booker.co.uk DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. Prices and information are correct at time of going to press, but may be subject to change.

4

JANUARY 2024

CONTENTS

44

34 NEW FOOD TO SHARE

46

NEWS

Food To Share products now

7

available.

Food To Share range Booker unveils an extensive new exclusive Chef’s Larder range of Food To Share.

34

Dry Aged Beef Blackgate range grows with premium Dry Aged

9

Spend growing Pub, club and bar

steaks.

spend grew 7.9% year-on-year in December, says Barclays.

PRICE 36

Locked Down Pricing Hundreds

PROF I LES

more products locked down until

14

March.

Umami Unique offer is blazing a seriously tasty trail in Liverpool.

S ERV IC E 18

The Ship Authentic Pan Asian offer

Booker’s new Chef’s Larder Food To

sets Christchurch pub on course for

Share range provides the perfect

success.

44

the Nationwide Caterers Association.

46

platform for you and your kitchen team

23

NCASS Benefit from membership of

£1.50 challenge Grow sales and

Premier Caterers International Film

profits with a range of dishes that

one of the biggest trends trends of the

and TV locations catering business

cost less than £1.50 per serve.

last 12 months. With 25 new products

shoots a winner.

to unleash your creativity and tap into

across meat, cheese, seafood, plantbased and desserts, there are endless possibilities to drive new footfall, sales and profits.

JANUARY 2024

28

F EATURES 28

REGULARS 40

Meet The Team Head of Transport

Food To Share Exciting new

Maria Chittenden discusses logistics

25-strong range of Chef’s Larder

and the Women@Booker Network.

5

IN THE BUSINESS

Tom Kerridge

Knorr Professional Creative Director

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BOOKER NEWS

BOOKERNEWS NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OPINIONS FROM ACROSS BOOKER

NEW OWN BRAND FOOD TO SHARE RANGE OPENS WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES Booker has launched an exciting and comprehensive new Chef’s Larder Food To Share range to help you cash in on one of the most important current trends.

INBRIEF 25 NEW LINES! CHEESE Breaded Mozzarella Sticks Breaded Jalapeno Peppers Mac 'n' Cheese Bites Mini Quiche Selection SEAFOOD

Booker has launched a fantastic new Chef’s

Battered Atlantic Cod

Larder Food To Share frozen range to help you

Goujons

make the most of the huge growth of sharing

Garlic and Herb Butterfly King Prawns

food, one of the biggest trends of the last year.

Spicy King Prawn Lollipops Tail-On Coated King Prawns

The exclusive new own brand range includes 25

DESSERTS

different products across meat, cheese, seafood,

Churros with Cinnamon

plant based and desserts, providing you with

Sugar

the perfect platform to unleash your creativity.

Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes

The new range was created following in-depth

MEAT

research by Booker which found that many of

Savoury Eggs

today’s customers are keen to try a more diverse

Mini Pie Selection

range of foods from different cultures and seek out highly personalised experiences when eating out.

Sharing platters and small plates are a perfect way

It also provides the perfect platform to help

Mini Pork Pies

elevate classic dishes, delivering popular favour-

Mini Beef and Horseradish

ites in exciting new ways.

to meet these demands while allowing customers

Yorkshire Puddings Mini Sausage Rolls Sausage Rolls

to reduce their spend, sample a more diverse

The lines can be used for everything, from sides

array of foods and have better, more social

and starters to canapes, buffets, sharing platters

experience dining out. The new Chef’s Larder

and small plates, delivering maximum usage

Food To Share offer has been carefully curated

potential and minimum wastage. As the range

PLANT BASED

to deliver a range that meets those demands and

is frozen, the offer means long shelf lives and

Breaded Garlic Mushrooms

is ideal for every venue type and every occasion,

minimum wastage as well as being quick and easy

Cauliflower Bites

all year round.

to prepare with prices starting at just 6p per unit.

Vegetable Gyoza

Mini Chicken Skewers Chicken Skewers

Rainbow Falafel Selection Vegetable Spring Rolls Onion Bhajis

FIND OUR MORE IN OUR FEATURE STARTING ON P28.

JANUARY 2024

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INDUSTRY NEWS

INDUSTRYNEWS NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OPINIONS FROM ACROSS THE INDUSTRY

CATERERS ‘MENU ENGINEERING’ TO DRIVE SALES, FOCUS ON VALUE

A report from Lumina Intelligence shows caterers strategically adapting menus while working hard to retain value perceptions.

INBRIEF TIPPING PLANS CLARIFIED IN NEW DRAFT CODE OF PRACTICE The Department for Business and Trade has published a draft code of practice on fair and transparent distribution of tips.

Among other things, the

adding new, higher-priced dishes to their menus

proposed rules would

in line with the trend towards more premium

mean that all tips must

options while some are also then maintaining the

be paid to staff with no

price-points of their entry level dishes to offer

deductions, tips must

consumers clear value.

be paid by the end of the month following

High inflation throughout 2023 meant the price of the same dish rose by 8.5% in spring 2023 and 6.5% in summer. Introducing new premium dishes to the menu has allowed caterers to increase their New research from Lumina Intelligence has

profits with less risk while those maintaining entry-

revealed how many pub and bar operators have

level price points have focused price increases at

adopted new ‘menu engineering’ strategies to

the premium end of their offer. 2023 also saw

help drive spend while communicating value

an increase in wider menus and an increase in

to their customers. Venues are encouraging

more sustainable and plant-based dishes. Value,

customers to spend more during their visits by

however, remains the number one megatrend.

when tips were received, agency workers are eligible for tips and there can be no pooling of tips between sites.

There would also be a responsibility for record keeping of tips and employees have a right to request this.

A consultation will run until 22 February and the

SCOTTISH BUDGET ‘FAILS’ HOSPITALITY SECTOR The hospitality sector in Scotland has reacted

firms in the Scottish islands, capped at £110,000

with anger at the failure of the Scottish Govern-

per business, and froze business rates for

ment to deliver the emergency 75% rates relief

mainland premises valued at less than £51,000.

Government proposes the rules come into force on 1 July 2024.

package requested in an open letter by more than 400 hospitality businesses and individuals.

The Scottish Tourism Alliance, the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, the Scottish Beer

The Scottish Budget was met with extreme

and Pub Association and UKHospitality Scotland

disappointment although the Scottish Govern-

said the government had "squandered a golden

ment did offer 100% rate relief to hospitality

opportunity" to help the industry.

JANUARY 2024

9

INDUSTRY NEWS

ACTION ON ‘GROWTH, INVESTMENT, ‘SOBER CURIOUS’ TRENDS GATHERS JOBS’ CRITICAL IN ELECTION YEAR INBRIEF PACE – SURVEY

Trade body UKHospitality has prioritised action on growth, investment and jobs to ensure hospitality is ‘front and centre’ of policy making in 2024 as a general election approaches. brings some respite from the endless price rises that have plagued the sector over the past 18 months. What’s becoming more apparent is that, despite falling inflation, government action is still needed to bring costs down and allow hospitality businesses to reach their potential.

"With a General Election set to take place in

With continued growth of

2024, our clear plan will be our focus with all polit-

the low- and no-alcohol

ical parties to ensure hospitality is at the front and

market, the findings

centre of policy making. Hospitality is clearly one

of a survey of 2,000

of the most strategically important sectors in the

consumers by non-

economy – contributing £93bn to the economy,

alcoholic aperitif brand Everleaf suggest that

employing 3.5 million people and generating

2024 could be the year in

£54bn in tax revenues for the Treasury.

which the ’sober curious’ trend truly becomes

With Prime Minister Rishi Sunak obliged to call

“With the potential our sector has for growth, it’s

mainstream.

the next General Election this year to make sure it

essential we receive the support and investment

According to the survey,

happens before 28 January 2025, five years from

needed to achieve our goals.”

30% of people said they

the day the current parliament first sat, trade

would like to reduce the

body UKHospitality has set out its priorities for

amount of alcohol they

the sector in 2024. The organisation has called for

consume while 74% of

action in three key areas “to ensure hospitality is

evenings out already see

at the front and centre of policy making”:

a mixed group enjoying both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks.

In other words, almost



branch reform of business rates 

three-quarters of all groups visiting a hospitality venue have more than one member who is not drinking alcohol.

10

Generate investment through root and Create jobs through Apprenticeship Levy reform



Drive economic growth through a lower rate of VAT.

UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “Hospitality businesses will be hoping this year

JANUARY 2024

INDUSTRY NEWS

INBRIEF HOSPITALITY VACANCIES CONTINUE TO DECLINE Office for National Statistics (ONS) data shows that there were 112,000 vacancies in hospitality at

PUB, CLUB AND BAR SPEND ‘UP 7.9%’ IN DECEMBER – BARCLAYS

the end of 2023, down

The latest report from Barclays shows pubs, clubs and bars had a strong December with consumer spending up 7.9% year-onyear while restaurants had their best month since August.

develop staff.

Consumer spending in pubs, clubs and bars

the best month for restaurants since August.

saw a dramatic increase of 7.9% year-on-year in

The comparatively smooth running of trans-

December, thanks to festive parties and gather-

port networks helped the sector in December,

ings, while restaurants enjoyed their best month

compared to 2022 when industrial action signif-

since August.

icantly hampered Christmas plans.

These are among the key findings of the monthly

The report, however, also found growing

Barclays Consumer Spend for December which

concerns among consumers around energy bills,

combines hundreds of millions of customer

with nearly nine in 10 (87%) concerned about the

transactions with consumer research to provide

impact of rising household bills on their personal

an in-depth view of UK spending.

finances. Conversely, confidence in overall

from 147,000 the year before but still higher than pre-pandemic levels of 89,000. Trade body UKHospitality reiterated its call for measures to help the sector invest and

Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “It's encouraging vacancies over the past year have fallen by such a considerable amount.

"Hospitality businesses have invested heavily in recruitment and how they develop their talent but there is still much to do.

household finances reached a four-month peak.

The spend growth in pubs, clubs and bars greatly

Longer term, nearly half of consumers (48%) said

outstripped growth in total consumer spending,

they want to save more money this year.

which was up 2.3% in the same period, less than the official inflation rate at the time which was 4.2%.

December also saw Barclays set an all-time

“Hospitality can continue to drive down vacancies and create more jobs, if we are supported.

"Reform of the apprenticeship levy would allow businesses to enhance their skills and development offering even further and is

record for the number of transactions processed

something the entire

Restaurant spend was still in year-on-year

per second – on Friday 22 December – with

economy is supportive

decline at -8.8% but the decline has lost much

food and drink transaction volumes up 66.8% in

of.”

of its momentum which meant December was

comparison to the average day in 2023.

JANUARY 2024

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BOOKER NEWS

FRESH WAVE OF RAIL STRIKES ANNOUNCED BY ASLEF UNION

A fresh wave of rail strikes has been confirmed by trade union Aslef and is expected to hit the hospitality sector once again.

INBRIEF MPs BACK CARD PAYMENT PLANS FOR GAMING MACHINES

and the new strikes see Aslef members walking out for 24 hours on a series of days as well as implementing overtime bans.

UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “Once again, hospitality businesses are left dismayed by strike action which will be significantly detrimental to sales and see bookings cancelled. “We estimate this set of strikes will cost hospitality almost £350m, on top of the £4bn in lost sales the sector has already had to withstand.

Rail union Aslef has announced that a fresh wave

The Culture, Media and

of train strikes will take place into February with

“We continue to urge all parties involved to

Sport Committee has

trade association UKHospitality suggesting that

urgently reach an agreement and resolve this

backed calls for card

the cost in lost business to the hospitality sector

dispute. Ongoing strike action hurts businesses,

payments to be permitted

could be as high as £350m. The latest industrial

prevents people from getting to work and signif-

for use on gaming

action is part of a long-running dispute over pay

icantly erodes confidence in the rail network.”

machines.

SCOTLAND CONFIRMS ‘LATTE LEVY’

The committee said it

The Scottish Government has

Leon Thompson, Executive Director

but also highlighted that

published its 'Circular Economy and

of UKHospitality Scotland, said:

customers who prefer to

Waste Route Map to 2030' which

“The prospect of a latte levy,

pay by cash should be

outlines a number of commitments

while well intentioned, could have

able to do so.

and plans including the introduction

adverse effects deterring customers

of a charge for single-use disposable

from using food-to-go businesses,

In the Autumn, the

cups by 2025, dubbed the ‘Latte

who need their custom more than

Government consulted

Levy’. It has not been outlined what

ever. Many businesses already offer

on whether to allow

the charge would be or what the

discounts and rewards for those that

cashless payments on

funds raised would be used for.

bring their own reusable cups.”

gaming machines, which

supports the introduction of cashless payments

trade body UKHospitality supported. The sector

What are you doing to stand out in your local market? Share it with us and your fellow Booker colleagues at catering@booker.co.u

JANUARY 2024

awaits the Government’s final decision.

13

PROFILE l UMAMI, LIVERPOOL

FLAVOUR SAVIOURS Umami’s unique American-inspired takeaway concept is blazing a seriously tasty trail in Liverpool.

In February 2023 entrepreneurs Mike

thought out. “A vast amount of time also

features a curry sauce base, topped with

Murphy and Ben Furguson saw their dream

went into building the menu and getting

chicken bites, cheese, onions and peppers

come true with the opening of their unique

the offer just right,” Mike adds.

plus a drizzle of sriracha lime mayo.

year on from Umami’s launch, and tens of

Umami’s unique American-style offer features

“In Liverpool, Salt and Pepper is also a

thousands of orders later, the pair are still

an array of distinctive dishes such as its

really big flavour trend so that’s reflected in

pinching themselves as they take in the

bestselling ‘Detroit Style’ pizzas – huge square-

the menu too, with lots of salt and pepper

brand’s stratospheric success.

shaped pizzas featuring a hand-stretched

items, many of which we have labelled as

dough that’s been cooked in special cast iron

‘Scouse’,” Mike continues. “So we have

tins sourced directly from the US.

a Scouse Burger, a Scouse Pizza, a Scouse

American-inspired takeaway concept. One

Ben explains: “My background is in digital marketing and Mike has always been a

Wrap and also Scouse vegan options such

chef. We had a mutual friend who owned

“We line the tins in oil and when the pizzas

as our Scouse Squeak, which is a deep-fried

a restaurant where Mike was working and

go in the oven the base of the dough gets

salt and pepper halloumi burger.”

over time we became pals. As our friend-

caramelised,” Mike explains. “There’s no

ship grew, Mike chatted to me about

crust on these pizzas, the toppings go right

Umami has also made a name for itself with

his dream of opening an American-style

to the edges which also become wonder-

its “famously seasoned skin-on fries” which

takeaway which struck a chord with me too.

fully crispy and caramelised.”

it buys from Booker, before adding a flavour

With my marketing experience and Ben’s

punch with a secret blend of homemade

catering knowhow, we had the perfect mix

All of Umami’s mouthwatering pizzas feature

spices. Every component matters, no matter

of skills and knowledge to make it happen

fully loaded toppings such as crispy fried

how tiny and we don’t roll anything out

and so we did!”

chicken, Italian sausage and chili and more.

unless its consistent with the brand and it’s

The ‘Umami Special Pizza,’ priced at £15.95,

perfect,” Ben adds.

The pair were clear from the outset that they wanted to offer something totally unique in terms of the branding and the offer. “We specialise in flavour-packed American-style dishes with our own twist that allow customers to enjoy unique restaurant quality meals in the comfort of their own homes,” says Ben. “Every single aspect of the offer, from the name to the branding, the menu, the presentation of our dishes and even the

THE LOWDOWN

UMAMI Location City Road, Liverpool Format Takeaway Caterers Mike Murphy and Ben Furguson Staff 11 Social media 3,873 Instagram followers Opening hours 7am-12pm

names of our dishes have all been precisely

14

JANUARY 2024

PROFILE l UMAMI, LIVERPOOL

JANUARY 2024

15

PROFILE l UMAMI, LIVERPOOL

TRENDWATCH UMAMI, LIVERPOOL

Authentic Nights Salt and Pepper is a big flavour trend in Liverpool and as such Umami’s menu stars a number of salt and pepper dishes. Mike and Ben have named many of their salt and pepper dishes as ‘Scouse,’ with one of its top sellers being its Scouse Burger – a salt and pepper buttermilk chicken burger garnished with sriracha mayonnaise and Umami’s signature seasoned fries.

“On a typical Friday we can do up to 300 orders, with Satur-

Their ethos is clearly resonating well locally, with demand

days the same,” Mike says.

for Umami’s unique takeaway concept flying as the new year gets underway. Plans for a second site, which would allow

“Business is booming, even at this time of year which tradi-

the dynamic duo to significantly expand their delivery reach,

tionally can be a quieter time for many caterers. We’re

are also afoot. “The last year has been such a whirlwind, we

pushing dishes like grilled chicken and salads and wraps

do sometimes have to pinch ourselves to check that it’s real,”

that all still pack an incredible flavour punch.” Just a matter

Mike laughs. “We’ve certainly got an exciting year ahead!”

of months after opening, Umami’s success saw it become one of Booker’s Top 1% customers and the relationship has continued to bloom over time.

“We’ve been working with Booker since the start but over time we’ve increased our orders,” Ben says. “We now buy 80%

MIKE & BEN'S SPECIAL BOARD ALL IN THE DETAIL

of all our stock from Booker, including a lot of our packaging, all our fries, cheeses, dessert sauces, all the toppings for the pizzas, such as the chicken, and most of our store cupboard ingredients. The fantastic service that we get is another key driver of our loyalty. Our CDM Steve is incredible. He tries his hardest to get us anything we need or want, and he’s even

Every menu component, no matter how

small, is careful considered before hitting the menu. Perfection is everything.

UNIQUE TWISTS

managed to get new products ranged that we needed, which has been a huge help,” Mike adds.

Also contributing to Umami’s success is its community work.

“We sponsor a local football team called the Warbreck Lions and donate money towards their kit costs and equipment.

From its Detroit-style square pizzas to its

signature spice mix, Umami stands out from the crowd with an array of unique features.

SEASONAL SWITCH

We also catered their end of season awards evening which was fantastic.”

Umami also regularly supports Liverpool’s homeless community with free meals which it distributes via the Liverpool in

Umami's menu changes with the seasons to reflect trends. Right now, it's all about healthier yet flavour-loaded choices.

Arms charity. “We are big believers in giving back to the local community,” Ben adds. “Supporting local means a lot to us.”

JANUARY 2024

17

PROFILE l THE SHIP, CHRISTCHURCH

PLAIN SAILING

Business at The Ship in Christchurch is positively buoyant thanks to an authentic Pan Asian offer that’s set it on course for great success.

From its picture postcard harbour, historic town centre and award-winning beaches, there’s a bucketload of reasons to visit the Dorset gem of Christchurch. And – thanks to caterer Chris van Hagen – outstanding culinary experiences are another. Chris, who was “born into the catering industry” but “escaped” to work as a barrister for 35 years, before being “re-arrested” as he puts it, took up the helm of Christchurch’s oldest pub, The Ship, 14 years ago.

After successfully running the beautiful 15th century venue with an offer that centred around traditional British dishes for just over a decade, the summer of 2020 saw Chris plot a fresh course for the business – with the introduction of a new Pan Asian cuisine offer, wittily named ‘The Ship On The Woks.’

As the last four years have clearly shown, it was a move that would set the business sailing towards even greater success. “Pan Asian cuisine is a style that I personally enjoy very much, and I wanted to offer our customers something very different from the many ‘flip and fry’ options that currently exist out there,” explains Chris.

The Ship’s smart 60-seater restaurant space was also tastefully

“We set out to provide our customers with delicious authentic, yet

refurbished at the same time to reflect the new Pan Asian menu.

affordable, Pan Asian gourmet food. Our team of highly skilled

Customers can also enjoy The Ship On The Woks’ flavour-packed

Thai chefs have so much passion. Their cookery is an artform; they

fare in the pubs beautiful, enclosed garden which offers a further

learned their skills from their mothers and grandmothers and the

30 covers and outdoor heaters. Starters include popular sharing

result is intensely flavoured, beautiful dishes.”

dishes such as Mixed Dim Sum, Crispy Korean Chicken Wings and

18

JANUARY 2024

PROFILE l THE SHIP, CHRISTCHURCH

THE LOWDOWN

THE SHIP Venue: The Ship Location: Christchurch, Dorset Format: Pub Caterer: Chris van Hagen Covers: 60 inside Chefs: 6 Opening hours: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-8pm

platters for 2 or 4, featuring chicken satay, vegetable spring rolls,

Korean Miso Seabass for £18.50, among many others. “We review

tempura squid and more. Mains courses offer customers a true taste

the main menu every three months but we also offer an extensive

of the exotic with dishes such as Lamb Banana Tree – (skewered

choice of weekly specials,” Chris explains. “The Ship on The Woks’

marinated lamb with noodles and a kimchi mayonnaise) for £19.95

Special’s board always boasts around nine or 10 different specials

or a Braised Beef Shin Massaman for £17.95. Those after a taste

a week, based on what’s in season or what’s inspired the chefs that

of the sea can also indulge in a variety of fresh fish dishes, such as

week. It means that we can constantly guarantee our customers

JANUARY 2024

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something different and exciting on the menu. If a particular special sells really well then we’ll often try to add it to the main menu where possible.”

Customers with a penchant for more traditional fare are certainly not left out, with The Ship still offering a number of British classics such as crispy battered cod, homemade pies, succulent steaks and its ‘Signature Wagyu Beef Burger’. “The time of day has a big influence over the type of dishes ordered,” Chris says. “During the day, our lunch trade orders tend to major on the classic British dishes, things like burgers, fish & chips, and steaks but in the evenings that is eclipsed by the Pan Asian dishes.”

The Ship’s 28-day-aged Sirloin Steak costs £23.95, and is a very popular choice, during the day and in the evening. The steaks come from Booker’s Blackgate range and Chris says the quality is “exceptional”. “Aside from our specialist Thai ingredients which I source through a different supplier and some local fresh fish products, the

“The range is fantastic and offers so much choice – from very

vast majority of our stock comes from Booker,” he adds.

high-end products to those which offer excellent value for money.”

“Quality products and an outstanding range are far from the only benefits though. One of the biggest plus points for me is the service that Booker delivers and the relationships that I have with my CDM and the branch manager. The support that I receive is

CHRIS' SPECIAL BOARD PREMIUM PRODUCE

second to none.”

The Ship’s reviews are equally outstanding. “We are fortunate to have excellent reviews and word of mouth plays a big role too. As

Quality is paramount at The Ship and

a result, we are an exceptionally busy pub and fully booked most

other specialist ingredients, are the key

back into the world of catering was certainly a very good decision!”

premium quality meat from Booker, and to its success.

FROM THE HEART

evenings and very busy during the day as well,” says Chris. “Coming

TRENDWATCH THE SHIP, CHRISTCHURCH

The expert team of chefs at The Ship cook from the heart, providing unique,

passionately produced dishes, setting it apart.

SPECIAL FOCUS

Authentic Nights Pan Asian flavours are without doubt a big trend, but we set out to offer our customers a truly authentic offer that really sets us apart. Our team of highly skilled Thai chefs have so

A broad, weekly changing menu of specials

much passion for the dishes they create, and you can taste

and exciting to try.

skills from their mothers and grandmothers and the result is

means there Is always something fresh

the difference. Their cookery is an artform; they learned their intensely flavoured, beautiful dishes that keep our customers coming back for more.”

JANUARY 2024

21

GO PLANT BASED STAY CHEESY Less than half the climate footprint

compared to the same amount of dairy cheese Learn more at violifeprofessional.com/en-gb

PROFILE l PREMIER CATERERS INTERNATIONAL

IT’S A WRAP

The Titterells have hit the big time with their unique film and TV location catering business.

As catering businesses go, family-run Premier Caterers International is more unique than most. Established by veteran caterer Peter Titterell and now run with his son Warren, the company has established itself as a leading light in the field of film and TV location catering – feeding the needs of actors and crews on sets across the UK and around the world.

Warren, who now heads up the company, explains: “Dad established the business around 40 years ago when I was a little kid, so I grew up on film sets, watching dad at work and helping out whenever I could. I loved it from the start and always knew that I wanted a career in catering too. After school I went THE LOWDOWN

PREMIER CATERERS INTERNATIONAL Company: Premier Caterers International Format: Film and TV location caterers Caterers: Peter and Warren Titterell Staff: 20

JANUARY 2024

23

PROFILE l PREMIER CATERERS INTERNATIONAL

to catering college and then worked in a number of hotels and restaurants before joining dad here full time around 10 years ago.

“It really is an incredible job.”

The business gets contracted by the likes of Disney, Paramount, Amazon and Apple TV when new productions require caterers. A lot of the work is UK-based, with a great deal at Pinewood Studios, but there is often a need to go abroad to cater on film locations too.

“We’ve catered for sets out in Morocco, Vienna, Dubai, Croatia and many more,” says Warren. “I’ve even served food to actors and crew at the top of Pulpit Rock in Norway, flying it up to the sets in helicopters. No two days are ever the same. One day we could be catering in a studio and then next day we’ll be setting up in a field, or up a mountain – every day is different.”

The monumental feat is achieved with the help of Warren’s fleet of vehicles, including 18-tonne mobile kitchen trucks and fridge trucks, along with the support of his loyal team.

“At the moment we’re catering a really big production. We’ve set up a huge main catering marquee at Pinewood Studios, where the whole crew, including the actors, can come and enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch,” he says. “At breakfast we set up a huge buffet

dessert buffet. “Every day we’ll offer different things and we do try to

offering everything from a full English breakfast to a full continental

tailor the offer to the seasons. For example, tomorrow is supposed to

and we even had an omelette chef and a pancake chef cooking

be very cold, so we’re putting on steak and ale pies as well as healthy

dishes to order.

warming options such as chicken and salmon bento boxes.”

“Once the breakfast service is over, we clear and clean and start

In addition to the main catering marquee, Warren also offers a Craft

all over again for lunch. At lunchtime we will always offer two main

service on the film sets themselves, which his wife Carrie runs. “The

meat dishes, two fish dishes, vegan options and a large salad and

Craft service is basically like a small kitchen on set where the crew

TRENDWATCH PREMIER CATERERS INTERNATIONAL

Sustainable moves Sustainability is really important to us and to the production companies that we work for. Meat Free Mondays are becoming increasingly popular as are vegan choices. Another benefit of buying through Booker is that so much of their packaging and disposable products, like cutlery, is eco-friendly and/ or biodegradable, which is really important.

24

JANUARY 2024

FEATURE l FEATURE

and actors can go to get a tea, coffee or snack all day long,” Warren explains. “Carrie’s team offer things like beautiful freshly made bagels, homemade cakes, pot meals and so much more. “Today we also had one of my chefs come on set with a street food-style offer of chicken shawarma and rice, which went down very well.”

However, whatever the dish or wherever the location, quality remains paramount. The Titterells pride themselves on the quality of their produce, dishes and service. “We buy the vast majority of our stock from Booker, from drinks to produce, store cupboard ingredients, meats and the full breakfast offer, so our spend with Booker is pretty massive!” says Warren.

“I’m very loyal to Booker because I know I can rely on them for quality and service. In fact, when we catered for a film production in Croatia not long ago, we sent two trucks out there filled with Booker produce! We use Booker’s best ranges, such as Blackgate and the quality of the meat, including the sausages, is fantastic.

We also get most of our packaging and disposables from Booker.”

Warren says he “loves” visiting Booker’s Sunbury branch every day to buy the produce. “I know all the depot staff and I know where everything is. The service that I get from Booker is also great. When you’re running an operation of this scale, you need a supplier that

WARREN'S SPECIAL BOARD

you can rely on.

TOP OF THE STOCKS “Today alone, we’ve catered for just over 500 people and we’ll do it all again tomorrow. “The shoot we are on at the moment is then moving from Pinewood to Sheffield next week, so we’ll have to pack everything up and move it up there. There’s certainly never ever a dull moment, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!”

Quality is paramount. We buy the best

of Booker's ranges including Blackgate. .

FLEXIBLE APPROACH We pride ourselves on our flexibility

and will always try to accommodate a

request for a particular dish or product.

ALL INCLUSIVE We cater for the whole crew, which means ensuring our menus keep

everyone happy, not just the leading lights. This fair approach is much appreciated.

JANUARY 2024

25

STOCK UP NOW

M136211

M136201

© 2023 European Refreshments UC. All rights reserved. SCHWEPPES is a registered trade mark of European Refreshments UC

THE NATION’S ORIGINAL & FAVOURITE TONIC my.ccep.com

SCAN ME

MyCCEP

FEATURE l NEW FOOD TO SHARE RANGE

SHARING SUCCESS A comprehensive new own brand Chef’s Larder Food To Share range from Booker offers catering customers the ideal way to cash in on one of the most important current trends and set themselves apart from the competition.

Keeping on top of the latest trends in food

on the environment and to seek out highly

and drink is clearly critical to maximising

personalised experiences when they are

footfall, sales and profits. One of the biggest

eating or drinking out of home.

trends of 2023 was the spectacular growth of sharing food – and it’s a trend that looks set

Sharing platters and small plates deliver

to keep growing over the next 12 months.

a wide range of benefits and tick a lot of important boxes for your customers

To help catering customers make the most

including helping them reduce their spend,

of this increasingly vital trend, Booker is

sample a more diverse array of foods and

launching an exclusive and comprehen-

have better, more social experiences when

sive new Chef’s Larder own brand Food To

dining out.

Share range that provides everything you need to add excitement to your menu and help set you apart from the competition.

CHEESE SHARER

SEAFOOD SHARER

The new range was created following in-depth research by Booker which identified the key consumer macro trends and helped inform the development of the Food To Share offer. Among the most important findings from that research were a desire from today’scustomers to try a more diverse range of foods from different cultures, to minimise their impact

28

JANUARY 2024

FEATURE l NEW FOOD TO SHARE RANGE

IDEAL FOR...

Catering Party Food Buffets Canapes Sharing Plates Small Plates Starters & Sides

PERFECT FOR…

EVENT CATERERS/LEISURE: WHY NOT CONSIDER… Basic to Premium Buffet Occasion Canapes Sharing Platters

HOTELS WHY NOT CONSIDER… Canapes/Receptions Buffets/Sharing Platters Room service quick menu items

PUBS/BISTROS WHY NOT CONSIDER… Small Plates Starters Sides Family/Sharing Platters

FAST FOOD

WHY NOT CONSIDER… Sides Family/Sharing Platters

DESSERT SHARER

JANUARY 2024

MEAT SHARER

PLANT BASED SHARER

29

FEATURE l NEW FOOD TO SHARE RANGE

CHEESE MCODE

PACK SIZE

M287543

32's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Breaded Mozzarella Sticks

DESCRIPTION

M287792

27's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Breaded Jalapeno Peppers

M287549

32's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Mac 'n' Cheese Bites

M289139

36's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Mini Quiche Selection

SEAFOOD MCODE

PACK SIZE

DESCRIPTION

M289172

2kg

Chef's Larder Food to Share Battered Atlantic Cod Goujons

M287145

28's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Garlic and Herb Butterfly King Prawns

M287149

16's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Spicy King Prawn Lollipops

M287147

30's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Tail-On Coated King Prawns

DESSERTS MCODE

PACK SIZE

DESCRIPTION

M289273

23's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Churros with Cinnamon Sugar

M289023

18's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes

VERSATILE AND VARIED

seafood, plant based, cheese and even

Sponge Cakes for the traditionalists among

Booker’s new Food To Share offer has

desserts, there’s something for every

your customers but also featuring some

been carefully curated to deliver a range

taste. The Food To Share range provides

lines for the more adventurous such as

that meets those demands and is ideal

the perfect platform for you and your

Churros with Cinnamon Sugar.

for every venue type and every occasion,

team to deliver elevated dining experi-

all year-round. It also provides the perfect

ences for your customers with a minimum

While all of the new lines will work perfectly

platform to help you elevate classic dishes

of preparation time for your kitchen team

well served as they come, why not unleash

and deliver popular favourites in exciting

and a minimum of effort for your front of

your creativity to take your menu to an

new ways.

house service team.

entirely new level? You could take the new vegetable gyoza, smash it up and top it with

The range of 25 different frozen lines can be

The range features lines to suit every

vibrant colours and textures with Chef’s

used for everything, from sides and starters

palate, from traditional savoury eggs and

Larder Sauces and jewels of pomegranate

to canapes, buffets, sharing platters and

mini filled Yorkshire puddings, through to

to create a new eye-catching and exciting

small plates, delivering maximum usage

more exotic items like Vegetable Gyoza,

vegan dish for your customers. The

potential and minimum wastage.

Breaded Jalapeño Peppers and King Prawn

options are limitless and can help you

Lollipops. The dessert options are similarly

add fresh energy to your menu as well

varied including classics like Mini Victoria

as driving new footfall, sales and profits.

With multiple options across meat,

JANUARY 2024

31

The Taste of Spring DECORATE DESSERTS

and DRINKS!

Simply Freeze Dried Raspberries 150g M282322 £12.99 Simply Freeze Dried Strawberries 130g M288442 £12.99 Simply Raspberry Topping Sauce 1kg M279135 £7.99 Simply Vegan Chocolate Topping Sauce 1kg M278049 £7.99

www.ibcsimply.com

FEATURE l NEW FOOD TO SHARE RANGE

MEAT MCODE CODE

PACK SIZE

DESCRIPTION

M289145

40's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Savoury Eggs

M289143

24's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Mini Pie Selection

M289144

24's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Mini Pork Pies

M289137

24's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Mini Beef and Horseradish Yorkshire Puddings

M287497

100's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Mini Sausage Rolls

M287495

40's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Sausage Rolls

M288135

120's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Mini Chicken Skewers

M288132

60's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Chicken Skewers

PLANT BASED MCODE CODE

PACK SIZE

DESCRIPTION

M287499

1kg

Chef's Larder Food to Share Breaded Garlic Mushrooms

M287545

1kg

Chef's Larder Food to Share Cauliflower Bites

M288915

30's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Vegetable Gyoza

M288923

30's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Rainbow Falafel Selection

M288919

30's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Vegetable Spring Rolls

M288913

30's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Onion Bhajis

M288917

30's

Chef's Larder Food to Share Vegetable Samosa

CONVENIENCE MATTERS

range is a fantastic way of helping your

canape, starter or sides options to your

As the entire range is frozen, the Food

customers combat the ongoing cost-of-

menu and, perhaps a sharing platter as

To Share offer means long shelf lives

living challenges while also growing

a new main course option, or you could

and minimum wastage. They’re are also

your own profits and delivering exciting,

push it further by adding an entire new

quick and easy to prepare and have been

sociable and highly Instagrammable

Food To Share section to your menu.

carefully created to allow your kitchen

dining experiences.

team to prepare varied and appetising

Remember too, that while these products

options with a bare minimum of time and

OPTIONS GALORE

are absolutely perfect for the Christmas

effort.

Whether you run an event catering

period, market data shows clearly that

business, a hotel, a pub or a fast food

opportunities exist throughout the

To help simplify product ordering and

outlet, the new Booker Food To Share

year, particularly around major sporting

handling, the entire range is colour-coded

range can help you take your business to

events, national holidays and the tradi-

making it easy for you to find what you

the next level, give your customers new

tional summer wedding season.

need in your local Booker branch or online

and compelling reasons to visit and offer

at Booker.co.uk and also to quickly find

experiences your customers won’t easily

These types of occasions provide the

what you are looking for you in your own

find anywhere else.

bedrock of Food To Share success but

freezers

a little effort and creativity could help One of the many beauties of the range

ensure that sharing food boosts your

With prices per unit starting at just 6p,

is that its potential is limited only by the

footfall, sales and profits all day long and

there’s also plenty of scope for growing

imagination and creativity of you and your

all year round.

your profi ts. The entire Food To Share

team. You could simply add some new

JANUARY 2024

33

NEW PRODUCTS l BLACKGATE DRY AGED BEEF RANGE

AGED TO PERFECTION

NEW

Booker’s new and exclusive Blackgate Dry Aged Beef products offer fantastic opportunities to take your steak menu to an entirely new level.

Yes, we’re living in challenging economic

packed for longer life and extended fresh-

times and your customers’ budgets may be

ness and is packed in small boxes of four

stretched after the excesses of the holiday

to minimise outlay.

period but, for many people, there’s nothing quite like the affordable luxury of

The packs are of fixed weight for consist-

a fantastic quality steak and a glass of good

ency & portion control and, as with all

red wine to help them forget their troubles

Blackgate products, the new range is fully

for an hour or two.

covered by a 100% moneyback guarantee.

So, step up the exciting new range of Dry

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Aged Beef lines from Booker’s exclusive

The range includes four of the most

Blackgate brand! For many, nothing says

popular cuts – sirloin, rump, rib eye and

luxury quite like the sight, sizzle and smell

fillet – and all have been aged for between

of a perfectly cooked steak arriving at their

14 and 28 days. .

SIRLOIN – AGED 28 DAYS

NEW

table – and the new Blackgate Dry Aged range can help take your steak menu to an

With beef of this quality, it pays to treat the

entirely new level.

steaks with the reverence and respect they deserve. Simply pan fry them to the custom-

EXQUISITE MEAT

er’s requirements and allow the full, exqui-

The beef is dry-aged in unique salt-moss

site flavour of the meat to shine through

chambers, using hand-crafted Irish seaweed

delivering an indulgent, supremely satis-

salt bricks, which gives it a highly concen-

fying meal that will have your customers

trated and fantastic flavour. The dry nature

coming back for more.

of the beef helps it caramelise quickly in the pan, producing an incredibly succulent steak.

Serve with fries or chips. Or, how about a beautiful peppercorn sauce or a chimichurri

Produced using prime beef from UK and

dressing? Serve with a side salad to create

Irish farms, the range is individually vacuum

a simple yet stunning centrepiece dish.

RIB EYE – AGED 28 DAYS

The beef is dry-aged in unique salt-moss chambers, using hand-crafted Irish seaweed salt bricks, giving it a fantastic flavour.

34

JANUARY 2024

NEW PRODUCTS l BLACKGATE DRY AGED BEEF RANGE

NEW

RUMP – AGED 21 DAYS

NEW

FILLET – AGED 14 DAYS BLACKGATE DRY AGED BEEF RANGE  Individually vacuum packed – for longer life and extended freshness  Fixed weight – for consistency & portion control

M289016

Sirloin (4 x 220g)

Aged 28 days

£24 (£6 per steak

M289014

Rump (4 x 180g)

Aged 21 days

£16 (£4 per steak)

M289019

Rib Eye (4 x 220g)

Aged 28 days

£28 (£7 per steak)

M289007

Fillet (4 x 108g)

Aged 14 days

£32 (£8 per steak)

 Packed in small boxes of 4 steaks  UK & Irish Beef & Farm Assured standards

JANUARY 2024

EXCLUSIVE TO BOOKER – SEE MORE AT BOOKER.CO.UK

35

ITEMS IN SELL UNIT - 1 X 70CL

ITEMS IN SELL UNIT - 6 X 70CL

M279512 Mermaid Zest Gin

M279488 Mermaid Zest Gin

M286027 Mermaid Spiced Rum

M286026 Mermaid Spiced Rum

M241504 Mermaid Gin

M241503 Mermaid Gin

M251834 Mermaid Pink Gin

M251422 Mermaid Pink Gin

M270735 Mermaid Salt Vodka

M270734 Mermaid Salt Vodka

FEATURE l LOCKED DOWN PRICING

LOCKED DOWN NEW YEAR PROFITS Booker has locked down prices on hundreds of products until 5 March so you can plan the first quarter of the year with confidence, safe in the knowledge that your bottom line is protected.

The first few months of the new year are

However, to make the most of these

the utmost quality at the best possible

teeming with social occasions perfect

events in tough trading conditions it is

prices.

to turn into profitable events for your

important that you can stock up on both

business, such as the 2024 Six Nations

your essentials and special ingredients

To that end, Booker has locked down prices

tournament, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s

with products that do not hurt either your

on several key categories, with new lower

Day, St Patrick’s Day and of course Easter,

or your customers’ pockets, giving you

prices meaning you can gain even more

to name but a few.

the ability to create delicious dishes of

significant value for your orders.

BLACKGATE SIGNATURE RUMP M217205 £9.99 PER KILO

BLACKGATE RIB EYE M217209 £22.99 PER KILO

BLACKGATE CARAMELISED RED ONION SAUSAGES M282485 £6.99

CHEF’S LARDER BRATWURST/ FRANKFURTER M289814/ M289816 £4.99

CHEF’S LARDER CHICKEN BREAST FILLET

CHICKEN SUPREMES 5X200-230G M270055 170-200G M270053 £5.99

1.2KG

BLACKGATE SIGNATURE 6 PREMIUM CUMBERLAND PORK SAUSAGE WHIRLS M282487 £5.99 1.2KG

RICHMOND VEGAN SAUSAGE 1.75KG M284838 £9.49

200G-230G/170G200G/230G+ 2KG 2KG M071783/M071785/M328921

5X150G

£11.99

*Prices and products are correct at time of going to print and are not guaranteed unless stated, errors expected. Subject to changes without prior consultation. Recipes, serves and idea are suggestions only and for illustration only. Please note products will be subject to availability and local listing, please check with your branch for details.

JANUARY 2024

37

FEATURE l LOCKED DOWN PRICING

BLAKEMANS RAW PREMIER PIGS IN BLANKETS 1KG M149858 £7.49

CHEF’S ESSENTIALS QUARTER POUND BURGER 40X113G M147178 £16.99

CHEF’S ESSENTIALS SAUSAGES 2.1KG M147653 £6.29

CHEF'S ESSENTIALS SMOKED BACON 2KG M147177 £10.19

CHEF’S LARDER AMERICAN SEASONED BURGER 48X113G M084626 £24.99

CHEF’S LARDER TEXAN BURGER 48X113G M084627 £27.99

CHEF’S LARDER PREMIUM 6OZ GOURMET STEAK BURGERS 30X170G M195771 £26.99

CHEF’S LARDER PREMIUM 8OZ GOURMET STEAK BURGERS 24X227G M195772 £28.99

PARAGON BASICS 4OZ HALAL BURGER 48X113G M282704 £21.49

TENDERFILL BEEFBURGER 90% 54X85 M286605 £25.49

WHOLEBEEF HALAL BURGER 48X113G M066963 £29.99

WHOLEBEEF HALAL BURGER 48X56G M066962 £15.99

*Prices and products are correct at time of going to print and are not guaranteed unless stated, errors expected. Subject to changes without prior consultation. Recipes, serves and idea are suggestions only and for illustration only. Please note products will be subject to availability and local listing, please check with your branch for details.

38

JANUARY 2024

FEATURE l LOCKED DOWN PRICING

CHEFS LARDER BATTERED COD FILLET 15S (110-140G) M260742 £14.49

CHEF’S LARDER MEDIUM BATTERED COD FILLETS (1X12S) 140-170G M260743 £14.49

CHEF’S ESSENTIALS WHITE FISH FILLETS (110-140G) 1X800G M156658 £5.99

CHEF’S ESSENTIALS 10 PACIFIC SALMON FILLET 1X1KG M280684 £24.99

CHEF’S LARDER SALMON PORTIONS 1.4KG M280678 £37.99

CHEF’S LARDER BREADED SCAMPI 1X1.8KG M201011 £23.19

CHEF’S LARDER STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING 12S M273638 £19.69

CHEF’S LARDER APPLE CRUMBLE 12S M280686 £19.69

CHEF’S LARDER GF BROWNIE 15PTN M273636 £18.49

CHEF’S LARDER GLUTEN FREE CHEESECAKE 16PTN M276798 £13.59

CHEF’S LARDER PREMIUM CHEESECAKE 2.1KG M252785 £18.49

WICKED KITCHEN STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING 24X125 M285427 £29.99

*Prices and products are correct at time of going to print and are not guaranteed unless stated, errors expected. Subject to changes without prior consultation. Recipes, serves and idea are suggestions only and for illustration only. Please note products will be subject to availability and local listing, please check with your branch for details.

JANUARY 2024

39

MEET THE TEAM l MARIA CHITTENDEN

SAY HELLO TO...

MARIA CHITTENDEN MARIA, TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF…

helping run an efficient and effective distri-

I’m Maria, I work in our Distribution function

around me and that’s absolutely critical

and I’m Head of Transport. This was a

when you’re running a division of the

new role following a restructure to bring

company that is so complex and multi-fac-

together our Wholesale and Retail divisions

eted and full-on!

bution function. I have a fantastic team

into one Distribution team. I’ve spent the and logistics with Booker, working across

HOW FULL-ON IS THE TRANSPORT DIVISION?

a number of business areas. I’m Co-Chair

Let’s just say that every day is a school day

and a founding member of the Women@

but Distribution is a huge operation. We

Booker Network along with my colleague

have 10 distribution centres across the

Abbie Hackwell. I’m also a mum of three -

country, we make around 10,000 deliveries

which is most definitely my favourite job! – I

a week to 190 branches and to over 5,000

have 2 sons aged 11 and 13 and a daughter

Booker Retail Partners independent retail

who is 8.

customers. It’s a 24-7 operation and pretty

vast majority of my career in distribution

ABOUTMARIA MARIA CHITTENDEN

full-on- it never stops and every part of the

WHEN DID YOU JOIN BOOKER?

company relies on us, which is a daunting,

I joined in 2003 as part of the logistics

but exciting responsibility when you think

graduate programme after graduating

about it.

Maria Chittenden is Head of Transport

from the University of Swansea with a BSc

at Booker, a role she has held since

in European Business Studies and Spanish.

It’s our job to get the right stock to our

February 2023. She has been with

My secret superpower is that I’m bilingual,

customers at the right time, so it’s a critical

mainly because my mum is Spanish! In

part of the Booker business. If we don’t do

between graduating and joining Booker

our job well, everything else falls down.

I spent about 18 months temping with

Fortunately I’m surrounded by a talented,

Associated Newspapers in London but

experienced and passionate team and I

I saw an ad for the logistics graduate

like to think that we do a fantastic job for

programme and it really interested me

our customers. At Booker we are massively

the internal colleague network

because I felt that logistics touched every

focused on service, we understand how

alongside Chair Abbie Hackwell in

part of the business spectrum and it would

important it is to our customers and aim to

March last year. The Women@Booker

be an interesting role.

deliver outstanding service every day.

has held a number of face-to-face and

AND PRESUMABLY IT WAS?

virtual events.

Well, I’m still here and I enjoy every day

ARE YOU ENJOYING YOUR ROLE AS HEAD OF TRANSPORT?

with all the challenges that are involved in

Yes, I am. When I saw the role advertised,

Booker for more than 20 years, having joined the company in 2003 after graduating from University. Since joining Booker, she has worked in various roles across distribution within Booker. Maria is also Co-Chair of the Women@Booker Network, launching

Network continues to flourish and

40

JANAURY 2024

My secret superpower is that I’m bilingual, mainly because my mum is Spanish!

I spent about 18 months temping with Associated Newspapers in London before joining Booker as a logistics graduate.

I felt ready to really get on and step up

had to find new ways to work safely and

Our drivers and Transport teams are

so I applied. The teams across the whole

the Distribution and Transport teams

pivotal to the business, delivering the final

of Distribution are exceptional and we all

really rose to the challenge and ensured

piece of the supply chain and it’s impor-

work well together. It’s only a year in, so

we safely got the cases out the door and

tant that we recognise that.

still lots that we are working on to improve

delivered. Since then, certainly within

and build on, but as I say a great team

Transport we have been impacted by a

and a great business, so I’m relishing the

number of factors, not least the driver

challenge.

shortages, but we have a successful Driver

TELL US ABOUT THE BOOKER WOMEN’S COLLEAGUE NETWORK

Academy that has enabled us to overcome

That’s my other job! I’m really proud to be a

HOW HAVE RECENT YEARS BEEN?

this particular challenge and also train and

part of something so inspiring and exciting

develop those colleagues who wanted to

and new! We launched the Women@

Really busy! With the pandemic we all

become drivers.

Booker network on International Women’s

JANUARY 2024

41

MAKE YOUR

MOTHER’S DAY

ROAST AMAZING FOR ALL WITH KNORR PROFESSIONAL THE NO.1 GLUTEN FREE GRAVY *

*Aggregated UK Wholesalers Value Sales 52 W/E 29th October 2023

M111093 (1 kg) £13.99

M111094 (1 kg) £13.99

MEET THE TEAM l MARIA CHITTENDEN

We launched the Women@Booker network on International Women’s Day 2023 and we’ve been really busy since launch, recruiting a committee of both women and men and organising a number of events.

Day 2023 and what a year it’s been! It’s a fantastic initiative and we’ve been really busy since launch, setting our objectives, recruiting a committee of both women and men, and organising a number of events.

We’ve already had two face-to-face events and one virtual event. We hosted a large allyship day in November which was really successful. It’s such an honour to be helping, supporting and inspiring colleagues across the business through the network.

IS THE NETWORK OPEN TO ALL YOUR COLLEAGUES? Absolutely, it’s about empowering women first and foremost but ultimately, it’s about empowering everyone. Recently, for example, we celebrated International Men’s Day and held a virtual event with Andy’s Man Club, a fantastic suicide prevention charity for men. We’re trying to break down barriers and stereotypes and basically help everyone at Booker be who they want to be and achieve their goals both in their work lives and their personal lives. Through Distribution we’ve been able to extend that support further by getting some of the vehicles liveried up with the AMC logo.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE SUCH A SENIOR ROLE WITH YOUR OTHER INTERESTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES? Firstly, my husband and I make a good team, so that makes sure the home logis-

I get a kick out of doing a good job and

of the Booker Women’s Network because

tics is covered! I have a very demanding

delivering great service to our customers

I feel like we are helping our colleagues

job but it’s also very rewarding and enjoy-

and helping them grow their sales and

in new and exciting ways. But there’s lots

able.

profits. Equally, I am honoured to be a part

more still to do!

JANUARY 2024

43

TRADE BODIES l NCASS

NCASS: HERE TO HELP YOU SUCCEED

The Nationwide Caterers Association is the membership association for independent food and drink businesses – and it could help you drive efficiency and save cost.

BOOKER VOUCHERS All new NCASS members receive a £100 or a £200 Booker voucher and, if they sign up to NCASS’s cashback deal, they earn up to 4% when they spend at Booker.

HOW DOES THE CASHBACK DEAL WORK? The deal is simple. The more you spend, the more cashback you earn, and there is a handy cashback tracker in your online Booker account and Booker app to see your progress.  Spend £2,500-£4,999 in 3 months; get 1% cash back  Spend £5,000-£14,999 in 3 months; get 2% cash back  Spend £15,000-£24,999 in 3 months; get 2.5% cash back  Spend £25,000-£37,499 in 3 months; get 3% cash back  Spend over £37,500 in 3

In today’s challenging economic environment, it makes sense to access all the help you

months; get 4% cash back

can get your hands on. Booker is, of course, always there for you and is constantly working to help you grow your business and drive footfall, sales and profits – but there are other

Your rebate is paid out every

organisations that can help you succeed.

quarter. You also receive a £25 bonus taken off your bill every

One such organisation is the Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS), an approved

12 weeks (3 months) if you’ve

partner of Booker. NCASS exists to help its members succeed by providing the products,

spent £1000 or more during that

services and support necessary for their businesses to thrive. Whether you’re a street food

period.

business, festival and event caterer or independent bar, pub or restaurant, NCASS is there to support you.

NCASS is the only specialist organisation for independent food and drink businesses in the UK and has been helping its members to be safe, legal and profitable for more than 30 years. Membership costs as little as 75p a day and gives you instant access to a whole range of practical and financial support that can help you run a better, more profitable business. NCASS can offer professional advice, support and guidance across a whole range of subjects and challenges to help ensure your business stays on track in a fast-paced and competitive industry, and also offers you access to a range of exclusive savings and discounts.

44

JANUARY 2024

TRADE BODIES l NCASS

NCASS MEMBERSHIP

TAILORED PACKAGES NCASS offer two different memberships:

Two classes of NCASS membership exist – ‘mobile caterer’ and ‘fixed site’ – and membership includes:

one for fixed-site businesses and one for mobile caterers.

For both options, a range of membership packages are available but all provide access to a Government-approved safety management system covering: food, fire and health & safety; on online risk assessment tool to help you meet your

accredited online courses.

legal requirements quickly and easily; exclusive rewards and deals; legal and

In addition, all members are entitled to

financial support around areas such as

professional HR support including an HR

tax, VAT, payroll and commercial legal

Health Check and a discounted hourly

support; expert advice on guidance

rate. Over 25 years NCASS has developed

on a wide array of issues; and up to

and refined its membership benefits

140 discounted training places on

packages to ensure that they meet your

Government-approved, City & Guilds-

real-world requirements.

 Safety management system  Compliance systems and tools  Assured advice and guidance  Online hygiene and safety training  Business dashboard

YOUR VOICE

 Exclusive deals & discounts  Member magazine

As well as gaining access to all of these

 Exclusive weekly member newsletter

concrete benefits, membership of NCASS also means that you become part of a bigger organisation that can represent your interests and those of your colleagues in the industry.

In essence, it allows you to have more of a say in the future of your vital industry. and guidance both on the NCASS Members also gain access to a constantly

website and through an official members’

updated database of important, timely

magazine and a weekly members’

and relevant information, advice, news

newsletter.

TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT NCASS.ORG.UK OR CALL 0300 124 6866 JANUARY 2024

45

FEATURE l AMAZING VALUE – LESS THAN £1.50 PER SERVE

READY FOR THE £1.50 PER SERVE CHALLENGE?

With customers’ pockets squeezed harder than ever after a tough year, what could be better than tempting them to your door with a range of great meals costing less than £1.50 per serving?

As we continue to ease into

proven quality Chef’s Larder

2024, it’s a fairly safe bet that

and Chef’s Larder Essentials

many of your customers are

own-brand products avail-

finding it tougher than ever

able from Booker to help you

after a difficult 2023 and the

deliver tasty, filling and satis-

excesses of Christmas and

fying dishes for no more than

the festive period. But rather

the price of a couple of coffees

than let them sit at home on

from a high street chain.

SERVING SUGGESTION

TOAD IN THE HOLE M147653 Chef’s Essentials 50 (Average) Sausages

2.125kg £6.29

M249914 Chef’s Larder Batter Mix

3kg

M160355 Chef’s Larder Garden Peas

6x2.5g £23.79

M197029 Chef’s Larder Buttery Mash Potato

6x2kg

£20.35

M429710 Chef’s Larder Sliced Onions

1kg

£1.69

M937532 Goldenfry Gravy Granules Original

2kg

£9.99

£7.99

£1.88

PER SHARING SERVING

SELL PRICE £6.50

% PROFIT 65%

CASH PROFIT £3.54

the sofa, why not tempt them out with some amazing-value,

TUCK IN

classic dishes that won’t break

To create these inspiring

the bank and will deliver extra

serving suggestions, Booker’s

sales and profit for you?

chefs have chosen six of the most popular dishes, including

To help inspire you to do just

toad in the hole, fish & chips,

that, Booker has created a range

dirty chicken & fries, bacon

of great serving suggestions that

& lentil stew, lasagne, and

will cost you no more than £1.50

chicken & spinach bake.

a serve. Now that’s what you call value! With cost per serve that

Delicious, nutritious and

low, you can afford to keep your

wholesome, every one of these

menu prices at an affordable

dishes can be prepared for

level, which will help drive

less than £1.50 a serve, leaving

much-needed footfall over the

plenty of room for profit for

next couple of months.

you, while also providing your

SERVING SUGGESTION

BACON & LENTIL STEW M289374 Osprio Green Lentils

2kg

£6.29

M274537 Jack’s Celery Single

Sgl

£0.85

M147175 Chef’s Essentials Rindless Back Bacon

2kg

£9.99

M153253 Farm Fresh Carrots

5kg

£3.99

M123824 Chef’s Larder Chicken Stock Cubes

60s

£6.79

M256165 Farm Fresh Cooking Onions

5kg

£4.99

£1.30

PER SERVING

customers with affordable The serving suggestions lean

lunches and dinners. Is it time

heavily on the exceptional

to take the £1.50 challenge in

range of exclusive great value,

your business?

SEE MORE RECIPES & DETAILS AT BOOKER.CO.UK 46

SELL PRICE £5.00

% PROFIT 69%

CASH PROFIT £2.87

JANUARY 2024

FEATURE l AMAZING VALUE – LESS THAN £1.50 PER SERVE

SERVING SUGGESTION

SERVING SUGGESTION

FISH & CHIPS

DIRTY CHICKEN & FRIES

M156658 Chef’s Essentials White Fish Fillets

800g

M285687 Chef’s Larder Chunky Chips

6x2.27g £20.45

£5.99

Southern Fried Chicken Fillets

2kg

M160355 Chef’s Larder Garden Peas

6x2.5g £23.79

M285658 Chef’s Larder Straight Cut Chips

6x2.27kg £20.4

M249914 Chef’s Larder Batter Mix

3kg

M287089 Chef’s Larder Sweet Chilli Sauce

1Ltr

£2.99

M286839 Chef’s Larder BBQ Sauce

1Ltr

£2.99

M273434 Chef’s Larder Soured Cream

890g

£4.99

£7.99

M129986 Chef’s Larder Small

£1.20

£1.34

PER SERVING

SELL PRICE £4.50

% PROFIT 68%

CASH PROFIT £2.55

£17.99

PER SERVING

SELL PRICE £5.00

SERVING SUGGESTION

% PROFIT 68%

CASH PROFIT £2.83

SERVING SUGGESTION

LASAGNE

CHICKEN & SPINACH PASTA BAKE

M262856 Chef’s Larder Lasagne Sheets

3kg

£14.99

M147180 Chef’s Essentials Fresh

M175179 Chef’s Essentials Minced Beef

2kg

£12.99

Chicken Breast Fillets

5kg

£24.99

M290638 Knorr Professional Bolognese Sauce

2.2Ltr

£14.59

M262844 Chef’s Larder Chef’s Larder Penne

3kg

£7.49

M287285 Macphie White Sauce

1Ltr

£4.99

M287285 Macphie White Sauce

1Ltr

£4.99

M95276 CL Grated Mozzarella/Cheddar Mix

2kg

£11.49

M95276 CL Grated Mozzarella/Cheddar Mix

2kg

£11.49

M270947 Chef’s Essentials Chopped Tomatoes

2.5kg

£3.89

M163264 Farm Fresh Spinach

250g

£1.29

£1.50

£1.45

PER SERVING

SELL PRICE £6.00

JANUARY 2024

% PROFIT 70%

CASH PROFIT £3.50

PER SERVING

SELL PRICE £5.50

% PROFIT 68%

CASH PROFIT £3.13

47

Seasonal Calendar Simple alternative vegetables to elevate your menu

Kale

Samphire

Swede

Wild Nettles

Apr

Turnip

Rhubarb (forced)

Beetroot

il

Mar ch

Nettles

Cabbage (White) Spring Onion

Purple-Sprouting Broccoli

SPRING BRITISH VEG

Portobello Mushroom

Watercress Celeriac Radishes

Parsnip Radishes Samphire

French Beans

Chillies

Portobello Mushroom

Tenderstem Broccoli

Aubergine

M ay Scan below for...

Seasonal Inspiration

Our Knorr Bouillon Range

My Professional Rewards

Tom Kerridge’s Seasonal Hero Recipes