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When Shaun Burton took over wholesaler Country Fresh in 2006, following 20 years’ experience in the food and catering business, he had a very clear idea of his customer base, - high end restaurants, independent hotels, and gastro-pubs across the East Midlands. Top quality fruit, vegetables, dry goods and fine foods are sourced from both Covent Garden and local suppliers, then distributed from the East Goscote distribution centre, using a fleet of 11 vans.
The company was committed to quality from the outset, and had already discussed implementing ISO9001 with IMSM as a way of demonstrating traceability and quality management systems to their customers. However, when IMSM’s business manager explained about the new standard, ISO22000, specifically for the food industry, there was no hesitation. Managing Director Shaun Burton commented, “The benefits are plain to see- improved team working, increased focus, better training, and supply chain compliance. Our Quality Manager Janie Maggs had experience of implementing similar systems in a previous business, so we had some expertise in house.”
He continued, “IMSM’s approach was logical, and their IRCA qualified assessor was very knowledgeable about the food sector, which helped. ISO22000 gives us a certificate of conformity which had been externally audited.”
“We can now approach larger customers, local authorities and chains of hotels and restaurants, and provide them with high quality produce. Achieving ISO22000 has really made a difference internally, too. Our staff all know what is required and they take pride in doing the job right, according to the manuals. This has opened doors to larger customers which will help us grow as a business; that has to be good for everyone.”
Shaun Burton is convinced that achieving ISO22000 will put Country Fresh ahead of its competitors, and the continuous improvement component means they plan to stay out in front. “I would definitely recommend IMSM, they helped us at every step of the way, and kept it simple- we liked that!”
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