Caterforce ‘connects and inspires’ with conference

Caterforce held its sixth conference and awards evening on 16 November and used the occasion to share positive news around sales growth and investment by its members into the group

The event, Connect and Inspire, was held at the ICC Wales and The Celtic Manor Resort and was attended by more than 250 delegates.

“The conference was a huge success and it was a privilege to share our sales growth and future plans with our suppliers and members,” said Gary Mullineux, Managing Director.

“Our eight family-owned members are investing more than £36m next year in their people, fleet and warehouses and by 2025 we expect our group turnover to hit three quarters of a billion pounds.”

Delegates also heard from Caterforce members, industry experts and a keynote speech from Ben Fogle. Tom Fender of TWC shared the results of a recent survey of Caterforce customers.

“It was great to hear that more than 50% of our customers said they were feeling positive about the future of their businesses despite the negative press around the economy,” said Lucy Boland, Group Marketing Director. “All our members are taking a customer-centric approach to marketing and so this type of first-hand feedback is truly invaluable.”

The event also included the buying group’s awards, which included a Lifetime Achievement award for Philip Parker, Purchasing Director, Pilgrim Foodservice.

Caterforce Gary Mullineux Lucy Boland Pilgrim Foodservice Tom Fender TWC