Brakes launches Scotland-only business

The new business recognises the unique nature of the Scottish foodservice sector and aims to promote the country’s produce, the company said.

Over 600 staff will work for the new branch, which already has more than 60 Scottish suppliers lined-up.

A new purchasing team has been created, will be based in Scotland and will run a multi-temperature distribution operation from Inverness, Oban, Dundee and a new facility in Newhouse.

More than 20 years​

The new division will be headed by Brakes’ operations director John McLintock, who has worked in the Scotland’s foodservice sector for more than 20 years.

He said: “We already supply over 340 Scottish lines and out focus will be on continuing to grow this number, providing our customers with fantastic local produce, such as Scottish meat, poultry, fish and dairy.

“We will help bring these products to life on menus in pubs, restaurants, hotels, schools and foodservice businesses across Scotland.”

Over the coming months the new branch would be looking to bolster its Scottish supplier base, he added.

A new Scottish range of food was also being planned by Brakes and would be fully traceable, transparent and would allow food businesses to add value to their menus by emphasising Scottish provenance.

Grow the company’s reach​

The announcement follows plans revealed by Bidvest Foodservice chief executive Andrew Selley earlier this month to grow the company’s reach. 

Selley told the Publican’s Morning Advertiser ​he aspired for the firm to be within 80 miles​ of its customers.

The business also acquired the south-west-based distributor Caterfood​ earlier this month in a bid to strengthen its reach in the south.

Selley also said the company would continue its growth and buy businesses to fill gaps it had in Scotland and the south-west.