It has been announced that ceda and Cedabond are entering a formal strategic partnership with AutoQuotes (AQ) UK, following a month’s-long period of discussions and collective collaboration pieces, to further develop the foodservice market.

The new partnership is set to further strengthen the UK position and align with the strategy of AutoQuotes’ US model of working closely with FEDA.

All parties want to utilise this opportunity to further underpin their collective strategy of consolidation and growth as they try to navigate the impacts of Covid and support the sector as it enters 2021 and beyond.

The collaboration will see the new partners work closely to produce research reports and live market information, as well as create and share statistical analysis to help members and partners better understand the market and plan accordingly.  Industry insights will leverage anonymised, aggregated information and will keep with AQ’s dedication to protecting customer data.

Adam Mason, director general of ceda, stated that it was critically important for the association to be a part of the development of existing products and the creation of new software solutions for members, partners and the wider industry.

Both ceda and Cedabond will work closely with AQ to provide feedback on AQ’s product roadmap to continue developing technology to increase efficiency and accelerate sales for the foodservice equipment and services (FES) industry.

Mason said:

“ceda is delighted to enter into this formal, strategic partnership with AQ, as the vast majority of ceda members and partners are using AQ products already, we can therefore help drive greater awareness and knowledge to ensure that they are making the most out of the solutions available.

We very much look forward to this venture with AQ’s UK and US teams, to assist growth and innovation and continue to add value and support to the distribution network in the UK.”

Mark Kendall, commercial director at Cedabond, added:

“After lengthy talks and careful planning we are delighted to be working closely with the AQ UK team.

“Industry-wide AQ offers digital solutions that really bring the industry together and we’re here to support that further with ongoing innovation, strategic direction and support.”

David Demres, AQ VP of marketing and strategic development, commented:

“AQ is focused on fully supporting our customers, especially during this difficult period for the FES industry, and we are thrilled to be able to collaborate with new partners who share the same objectives as we do.”

Demres said the partnership will also add further value to manufacturers and dealers looking to join in the New Year.

He added:

“This partnership, along with our recent acquisition of Axonom and our ongoing product roadmap, is strong evidence of incredible things to come in the UK FES market in 2021.

“Together with ceda and Cedabond, we will be able to serve even more of the market and provide comprehensive education on how customers can get the most out of our solutions.

“This is a time to be united for the betterment of the industry, and we are delighted to be doing this with our friends at ceda and Cedabond.”