ceda Silver Partner Brita Water Filter Systems release podcasts

ceda Silver Partner Brita Water Filter Systems release podcasts

ceda Silver Partner Brita Water Filter Systems has released three podcasts based around their Collaborative Kitchen research, acknowledging that 7% of people use podcasts as a daily source of news and insights.

Life is Better Filtered: The Collaborative Kitchen

Many would argue that the back of house operation is the backbone of all hospitality establishments and for a business to succeed, it needs to be operating as efficiently as possible. This report has been created by BRITA Professional to provide inspiration and advice for hospitality businesses that are striving to ‘filter out’ previously inefficient back of house practices. With tips from industry experts and solutions to common challenges, the report aims to support hospitality businesses in creating the collaborative kitchens of the future.

View the full report The Pursuit of Optimum Kitchen Efficiency here: https://issuu.com/britaprofessional/docs/brita_collaborative_kitchen_single_

The podcasts feature Hayden Groves – Consultant Chef at Borough Market, Kate Nicholls – CEO of UKHospitality and Mark Lewis – Chief Executive of Hospitality Action.

The secret to an efficient kitchen: Hayden Groves shares his insights on creating a productive and efficient working environment and team based on his experience as Executive Chef at BaxterStorey, and working with some of the country’s leading producers at Borough Market. https://soundcloud.com/user-263314916/the-secret-to-an-efficient-kitchen

Looking to the future of hospitality: Kate Nicholls shares her thoughts on the key challenges facing hospitality businesses, such as staffing issues, rising business rates and the competition on the high street, and what these mean for the future of the industry. https://soundcloud.com/user-263314916/looking-to-the-future-of-hospitality

Changing attitudes in the kitchen environment: Mark Lewis discusses the challenges facing hospitality employees and the implications these can have on their lives, changing attitudes in the sector towards mental health and installing a culture which promotes a work life balance, as well as how to make sure your kitchen environment can help to promote this. https://soundcloud.com/user-263314916/changing-attitudes-in-the-kitchen-environment

For more information on BRITA Professional, please visit: https://www.brita.co.uk/filter-contact


Update: Catering Equipment Service Engineers Apprenticeship Scheme

Update: Catering Equipment Service Engineers Apprenticeship Scheme

Back in the summer, we told you about a Trailblazer group of 11 ceda Members who were developing a new apprenticeship standard for a Catering Equipment Technician.

With the help of an advisor from the Institute of Apprenticeships, the group submitted a draft proposal for a Catering Equipment Technician. The initial proposal included details of the essential duties and tasks that need to be undertaken when servicing and maintaining catering equipment. The proposal was accepted earlier this month and means the group can now develop the next steps of the apprenticeship scheme.

The second phase that needs to be designed as part of the standard is made up of two parts;

  1. To agree the knowledge, skills and behaviours required in a Catering Equipment Technician to fulfil the duties and tasks set out in the initial proposal.
  2. To develop an end point assessment that will determine whether the apprentice has gained the required knowledge, skills and behaviours and can competently carry out the necessary duties and tasks. The assessment can be practical or written but must be carried out by an independent, registered assessor or organisation.

The knowledge, skills and behaviours were agreed by the Trailblazer group, now consisting of 14 ceda Members and other interested parties, on 22nd November.

A small sub-section of the group will meet on 17th December to determine the end point assessment plan, which will then be put to the rest of the group and submitted early in the New Year.

It is hoped the entire apprenticeship standard process will be accepted and finalised by May 2019. Whilst the apprenticeship will be open to all, the hope is that this time-frame will catch school and college leavers.

If you would like to know more about the apprenticeship standard, or want to become part of the Trailblazing Group, please contact ceda Technical Support Advisor, Peter Kay, peterkay@ceda.co.uk.


Berkeley Projects join as a ceda Member

Berkeley Projects join as a ceda Member

We’re delighted to announce that Berkeley Projects have joined ceda as a new Member.

Berkeley Projects was formed in 1972. Since then we have become one of the leading design and construction management companies.

Our work ranges from major corporate and hotel fit outs through to the supply of individual items of equipment. We plan and implement complete catering projects working with specialist teams to ensure compliance with budget, regulation and timescale.

We can combine the requirements of food service with contemporary or classic designs to provide practical solutions.

Project Manager at Berkeley Projects Oliver Tuff commented, “Berkeley Projects are pleased to become members of ceda. With a younger team progressing through the business, ceda offers a great way to provide various training modules & opportunities. It provides a level of experienced resource & expertise, together with opportunities to network with other members and key ceda suppliers. These benefits will help us provide an enhanced service to our clients.”

Find out more about Berkeley Projects at www.berkeleyprojects.co.uk.


Arolite Ltd join ceda as a Service Member

Arolite Ltd join ceda as a Service Member

We are delighted to announce that Arolite Ltd have joined ceda as a Service Member.

Arolite is a privately owned business that’s small enough to care, yet big enough to deliver. They have an experienced and dedicated team, who share the company values of credibility, honesty and delivery – they aim to add value through high standards of service, knowledge, expertise and efficiency, and they work openly with their customers and each other to fulfil their commitments.

Arolite have the experience, both technical and client-based, to understand the demands of managing a busy catering operation. Their unrivalled mix of specialist knowledge advanced IT systems, communication infrastructure and focused delivery, makes them the ideal support partner for all major and multi-site commercial food & beverage operations.

On the decision to join ceda Arolite Commercial Manager, Bryn Vivian, comments “Joining ceda provides us with the opportunity to get to know existing partners better and to forge some new relationships. Being part of an industry association gives us additional credibility which is a key feature of the way Arolite works and behaves. It also offers another channel of information regarding the latest regulations and market trends.”

Find out more about Arolite Ltd on their website: www.arolite.co.uk


ceda Membership growth

ceda Membership growth

18 months ago, ceda set out on a mission: to refocus, grow its membership and reach the wider catering and foodservice industries with its message ‘Connecting Our Industry’. ceda’s “transformation” (as described by Catering Insight in September 2018) also included a re-branding, new marketing strategy and investment in membership services all of which are working together to strengthen the ceda brand and encourage new and old Members to join the trade organisation.

To date, ceda has welcomed over 20 new Members in that time – Apeiron Catering Ltd, Arolite Ltd, Barcare Supreme Ltd, Berkeley Projects UK Ltd, Ceba Solutions Ltd, FSW Gas Services Ltd, Grey Simmonds Foodservice Equipment, KCCJ Ltd, Midshires Catering Equipment Ltd, Scobie McIntosh Foodservice Ltd, Space Catering UK and Sprint Group in 2018, with more new Member applications currently being processed.

Adam Mason, ceda Director General comments, “I am really happy with the progress that we have made. Having spent much of 2015 and 2016 listening to Members, Partners and operators then devising plans and strategy of how we were going to move forward, we are in a place I am satisfied with. Membership growth is great but more important is the retention of and engagement with our existing Members; if we are delivering for them then membership growth is inevitable.”

Of the new Members to come aboard in 2018, two are returning ceda Members. Ceba Solutions and KCCJ both rejoined during the summer, citing ceda’s recent reorganisation as a key factor in their decision.

Following their approval in July, Jonathan Elcock at Ceba said, “Following ceda’s renewed outlook, we have received positive feedback from others within the industry and so we have decided to rejoin. We also feel it is more professional to have the backing of a dedicated industry body.”

Re-joining in August, KCCJ Managing Director, Kevin Slatter commented, “Following on from the restructuring of ceda and comments/statements made by others we felt the time was right to re-join. Having the association with this recognised body within the industry will enhance the services KCCJ offer.”

ceda’s commitment to add value to its membership, whilst reaching out to a wider audience can be seen in all of their recent developments.

Adam Mason confirms, “We are much better engaged with the membership which means we can better deliver the support and services that they need. And we are not afraid to invest in these areas either – the recent financial investment made in developing and delivering BIM training, in conjunction with the BIM Academy and the University of Northumbria is a perfect example of this. It allows Members to take advantage of much needed quality training at a really affordable cost. In terms of our recognition at the operator level, this is increasing all the time and when our Members tell us they have won business as a result of being a ceda Member it’s really pleasing.”

Mason cites the volume and quality of their technical provision too, “The guidance documentation that we are producing has been great. It’s tangible, coal-face, solution providing, best-practice information that has been recognised at every level of the supply-chain. ‘Connecting our Industry’ isn’t just a fluffy strap-line, it’s a mission.”

The ceda membership now totals 114 companies, who boast a combined annual turnover exceeding £650 million, 49 of the best equipment and services suppliers are involved as Partners and direct engagement with end-users, operators and customers increases all the time.

“We have created a good foundation to build on but that’s all we have done.” concludes Mason. “We are well on course to deliver our 2022 development plan with projects that will change the face of the industry.”


BAFE announce ground-breaking Kitchen Fire Protection Systems Scheme

BAFE announce ground-breaking Kitchen Fire Protection Systems Scheme

A hot topic discussed at the recent ceda Technical Conference was Kitchen Fire Suppression Systems. The session provided an update on the types and uses of fire suppression systems in commercial kitchens, as well as new developments and the future direction for protection.

To follow up from the Conference, at the Fire Safety North exhibition, held 9th-10th October in Manchester, BAFE officially announced their latest scheme to be made available for third party certification assessment.

BAFE Schemes Manager Chris Auger with John Davidson, Head of Field Operations (Systems) for NSI and NSI mascot Cash the Owl at the Fire Safety North exhibition October 2018.

BAFE, the independent register of quality fire safety service providers, have been developing over the last two years BAFE SP206, a new third party certification scheme that covers the design, installation, commissioning, recharge and maintenance of kitchen fire suppression/extinguishing systems.

Fire industry/insurance data reveals food and drink related fires are statistically the third most likely cause of large fires, also accounting for nearly 10% of all large loss fires. Fires involving restaurants and cafes represent some 42% of all fires within the food and drink sector put together.

Chris Auger, Schemes Manager, stated: “Third Party Certificated competence for contractors providing kitchen fire protection system works has been sadly missing in the UK, and something we felt was essential to address. End users and procurement specialists should have access to demonstrably competent providers for kitchen fire protection systems. We are delighted to officially announce the scheme at the Fire Safety North event.”

Developed with industry experts from Ansul, Amerex and Nobel Fire Systems, alongside Certification Bodies NSI and BSI, and chaired by Dr. Jim Glockling of the FPA, this scheme enhances the level of quality for these specific works to ensure a safer working kitchen environment but also to aid in the reduction of kitchen fires escalating to an uncontrollable and dangerous situation.

“Providers of kitchen fire protection systems who wish to provide robust evidence of competency to their clients, will be able to obtain independent third party approval certificated to the new BAFE SP206 scheme. NSI was delighted to be invited by BAFE over 18 months ago to help develop this ground-breaking scheme, a first in the UK fire market. In commercial property It has the undeniable potential to significantly reduce the risk to life associated with fire as well as protecting property from fire and associated consequential loss arising from poorly protected and unprotected kitchen environments.” – John Davidson, Head of Field Operations (Systems)

The BAFE Kitchen Fire Protection Systems (SP206) Scheme will be available for third party certification assessment via NSI. Please visit the BAFE website for more information www.bafe.org.uk.


Scobie McIntosh become ceda Member

Scobie McIntosh become ceda Member

We are delighted to welcome another new ceda member.

Scobie McIntosh, a business that has passed through six generations of family leadership, now finds itself at the forefront of delivering services and innovation to the food service industry on an international scale from supermarkets and hotels to bakeries and cafes.

The business today has key competencies spanning across bakery, catering, coffee, vending and refrigeration supported by design, specification, logistics, installation, service, maintenance programmes and finance packages, all of which have been created through interaction and response with their broad and diverse range of customers.

Today Scobie McIntosh continues to develop solutions for its customers, has an energetic growth strategy which is on boarding businesses that add value to its existing customer base and is ready to discuss any equipment challenges and service requirements you may have.

On the decision to join ceda Scobie McIntosh Executive Director, Kingsley Donaldson comments:

“Scobie McIntosh has had a long association with ceda. We are really pleased to be returning to the organisation as a result of our recent acquisition of Corrigans. Our Chairman, Geoffrey Alderson, was heavily involved with ceda and was Chairman for a number of years. Karen Hillyer of Corrigans has been a long standing ceda member too so it is only natural for us to return to the fold.

“It is an exciting time for our business as we expand across the UK and Ireland. The move back into catering has been long overdue and by bringing Corrigans into our group of companies we are filling that gap. Whilst our initial focus will be on Corrigans existing client base, we are ambitious to expand beyond the M25 and eventually to have a national level catering operation to complement our bakery, coffee, vending, refrigeration and logistics divisions.”

To find out more about Scobie McIntosh visit www.scobiemcintosh.com.


How ceda keeps your customer’s business running

How ceda keeps your customer’s business running

Those of you who attended the Technical Conference last week (10th October) will have seen our latest video which aims to show how ceda members keep the foodservice and catering industry on track. (We can’t get the song out of our head either!).

The video is the follow-up to the successful You Imagine, We Create film which premiered at the ceda Conference in April this year. More films are also in production as we speak.

Please forward this video on to your own existing and potential new clients to help them understand the benefits and advantages from dealing with a ceda member. Here’s the link to the video on the ceda YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/H_sKPFAMLQ8

Sharing this link will take people straight to the video. You may also consider embedding a copy on your own website, sharing the video on your social media channels or adding the link to your email footer.

We want the ceda message to go far and wide so please share away.

Customise this video for your own company!

The video was designed in such a way that it can also be personalised to your business. For those who would like to edit it, our creative team can replace the ceda logo in the top right of the video with your company logo. There is a small cost associated with this editing but it’s a great opportunity to develop your own marketing tools.

If you would like to discuss how to use and/or edit the video for your business please contact our marketing partners CreationADM on 0161 236 3939 or email enquiries@creationadm.com.


Synergy Grill appoint new Director for Commercial and Marketing

Synergy Grill appoints Richard Ebbs as Director for Commercial and Marketing

ceda Silver Partner, Synergy Grill, appoints Richard Ebbs as Director for Commercial and Marketing as part of growth plans for the Cambridge based manufacturer.

Following a successful career with Nisbets PLC, Richard decided to accept the challenge of switching from distributor to a manufacturer.

He has been part of Nisbets for over nine years and during this time was instrumental in driving forward the 30 strong own and exclusive brands (such as Polar, Buffalo and Olympia) whilst leading some of the company major projects such as setting up the National Catering Equipment Centre (NCEC) and product training for the company.

Richard said, “I have loved being part of Nisbets in what has been a hugely successful time for the company and feel very proud of the work we have done in Uropa brands, product training and with the NCEC.

“I have no doubts that under Klaus’ leadership, Nisbets will continue to grow and this is only the beginning of the company’s success, However, I felt it was right for me to accept this new challenge and very fortunate to be offered the role within Synergy Grill.”

Justin Cadbury CEO of Synergy Grill commented, “We are delighted that Richard has decided to join us. He has incredible experience of the industry and brings with him a wealth of knowledge that will help us drive Synergy Grill forward.

“Synergy Grill has the patented fuel injection technology and will have the same effect to grills as fuel injection overtaking carburetors, had in cars. It is the future. Several hundred restaurants already successfully depend on its reliability and superior performance and Richard is joining us at a perfect time to extend this new technology.”

Richard added, “Synergy Grill products are like nothing else available on the market today. They are the only grills that atomise fat! No fat means no filthy fat trays to empty, cutting down your cleaning time by 80%.

“Cleaner, less fatty smoke reduces cleaning and strain on your extraction providing you with a nicer working environment. All of this, whilst using an average of 59% less gas than other chargrill brands. This provides amazing savings of your gas bills whilst beating the performance of a ‘standard’ chargrill.

“However, for me, best of all, is the quality of the food it produces.

“It’s my belief in the range, which meant moving to Synergy Grill was a no-brainer! With such amazing USP’s, the Synergy Grill range offers a real insight into commercial cooking for the future.”

For further information on the full Synergy range or to arrange a demonstration, visit www.synergygrill.com or call 01480 811000, email info@synergygrill.com.


ceda Technical Awards winners 2018!

ceda Technical Awards winners 2018!

ceda and CESA are delighted to announce the winners of this years’ Technical Awards.

Presented at the gala dinner which concluded The Catering Equipment Industry Technical Conference in Nottingham on 10th October, the awards specifically target the service side of the catering equipment industry. This year’s judges were Jonathan Booth, MD of ceda partner Commercial Catering Spares Ltd and John Quipp, Technical Services Manager UK of ceda partner Blue Seal.

The Groundbreaker Award recognises and rewards the successful introduction of an innovative project that delivers additional customer service benefits. This year’s winner was Apeiron Catering for their new field service management system which has reduced engineer response time as well as boosting first-time fix rate!

The Rising Star Award recognises and rewards an individual’s outstanding achievement and contribution to the development of the Technical Service and Support provided by a ceda member company. The 2018 winner was Sarah Lawrence from Apeiron Catering for her pioneering work managing the software for the new field service management system.

The Apprentice of the Year Award recognises and rewards an individual’s outstanding progress during their apprenticeship. Topping the board this year was Archer Catering Systems’ project engineer, Macauley Knight who has quickly made a big impression at the SME company.

The Supplier Award recognises and rewards a supplier for their high quality technical support, particularly for engineers working in the field. This award is voted for by ceda members technical contacts, with Maidaid Halcyon voted as the 2018 winners.

Congratulations to all the winners and thanks to all who attended and contributed to The Catering Equipment Industry Technical Conference 2018!

A photo gallery from the Technical Conference and gala awards dinner is available to view here: The Catering Equipment Industry Technical Conference 2018 – official photo gallery