Big growth for Woodward

New owners of the UK's third--largest food supply company, Woodward Foodservice, have promised a programme of significant expansion following its takeover. The £186m-turnover company has changed hands in a management buyout led by chief executive Ed Hyslop. The management team has taken a sizeable equity stake in the new company, which is being backed by Lloyds TSB Commercial and investment companies Baugur and Talden. Baugur led a previous takeover of Woodward earlier this year, acquiring the company from the Big Food Group. Woodward supplies a range of fresh and frozen food products to the pub, hotel and restaurant sector. Hyslop said: 'We operate in a market that is dominated by two major players but now we are in an ideal position to grow our market share and provide an alternative and efficient service to caterers on a national basis.

Butlers in the Buff for charity

Diners at the Cherry Tree Restaurant at Stradishall, Newmarket, have been promised an eating experience with a difference this month. Two charity nights entitled Butlers In The Buff are taking place at the pub, tonight and next Thursday, to raise money for the Great Ormond Street Hospital and Essex Air Ambulance. A team of scantily-clad waiters will be serving up an à la carte menu to customers paying £25 per head for the privilege. The pub has promised that £5 from each cover charge will go to the two charities.

Latest trends at food show

The Speciality and Fine Food Fair is being staged at London Olympia between 4 and 6 September. More than 350 quality food and drink producers will be present at the three-day show which promises to reveal a host of latest trends and new food fashions. Food producers and suppliers, plus a range of catering equipment companies, will be taking stands. The fair is being supported by some of the industry's top chefs, including Jean-Christophe Novelli, Aldo Zilli and

Gennaro Contaldo.