Pub has its chips - and saves £9K

Pubs in the 400-strong Robinson's estate are being offered increased support to develop their food offer.

The north west brewer's recently-appointed development chef Chris Whittleworth has notched up some early wins, saving one pub £9,000 a year simply by switching chip suppliers.

Chris, a chef with 15 years experience, spent five years as head chef at The Mulberry, one of Robinson's flagship food pubs, and has moved into the newly created head office role.

One key area for success has been the ability for Chris to negotiate prices with suppliers for the whole estate. He also brings a fresh pair of very experienced eyes to individual pubs, seeing areas where costs can be cut and profit added.

"At one house, which is already professionally run and has a string of awards to its name, we have been able to save £9,000 per year simply by sourcing the same quality of chips from an alternative supplier," said Chris.

"Finding the right price means staying abreast of the market and knowing the current deals. The best supplier with the keenest price this month may not be the same next month, so it is a case of constantly revisiting them to stay on top of the game."

As well as food, Chris is also using Robinson's leverage to get the best prices on catering equipment, citing one pub where a £900 discount on a cooker was negotiated on the price quoted to the individual licensee. "In this particular case a two year warrantee was also secured which delivers obvious benefits and added value."