MSC Foodservice Wholesaler Award

Brakes scale new heights with ninth top MSC award

There’s no need for Brakes to fish for compliments at the MSC awards as they scooped their ninth successive foodservice wholesaler of the year title

Brakes and fellow Sysco company M&J Seafood were recognised for their passionate focus on the quality, sustainability and provenance of their seafood.

Parent company Sysco is committed to supporting customers to create more sustainable and healthier menus, from the way ingredients are sourced and produced, to their handling through the supply chain and menu development.

Working with organisations and certifications including MSC, MCS and ASC, Brakes and M&J Seafood have developed an enviable range of sustainably sourced seafood, winning the MSC Foodservice Wholesaler of the Year every year since the awards were launched in 2014.

The duo have continued to innovate in the seafood category, including introducing new MSC British coley, Jersey MSC lobster and converting all breaded plaice to MSC certified in the past year.

“We have unique expertise in fish, with M&J’s long-established reputation for sourcing the best of the catch and Brakes’ unrivalled scale and foodservice knowledge, providing customers access to an incredible foodservice fish proposition,” said Sysco GB Merchandising Director Stuart Smith.

“While it’s fantastic that we’ve been awarded Foodservice Wholesaler of the Year for the past nine years, we’re committed to continuing to building the category, bringing customers new, exciting and sustainable fish options that will enhance any menu.”

Elsewhere on the night, Bidfresh business Direct Seafoods retained its MSC Fresh Fish Foodservice Supplier of the Year award.

The accolade is given to a supplier who has supported their customers in identifying new MSC products and species for restaurant businesses, whilst demonstrating commitment to driving progress of certified sustainable seafood within the UK foodservice sector.

“We’re delighted to have won this award for a second consecutive year,” said Direct Seafoods Director of Sustainability Laky Zervudachi.

“I’m really proud of our team and their achievements and this award is testament to their hard work and commitment, despite another challenging year for the industry.

“The MSC Award recognises our decision to put sustainability at the heart of our business. We offer one of the largest ranges of MSC certified products, along with extensive customer support including menu planning, recipe inspiration and training.

“Sourcing fish responsibly is paramount to us and we work closely with both our mainstream and specialist fish suppliers, believing passionately in promoting the most sustainable products available to our customers.”

Bidfood Brakes Direct Seafoods M&J Seafood MSC MSC Foodservice Wholesaler of the Year Stuart Smith Sysco