KP of the Year 2014 still open for entries

ENTRIES NOW CLOSED

Chefs and managers around the country are nominating their KPs in the KP of the Year 2014 competition, organised by Caterer and Hotelkeeper in partnership with Winterhalter.

The entrants will be scrutinised by judges including Jeff Galvin, chef-proprietor of Galvin Restaurants, Frances Atkins, chef-proprietor of the Yorke Arms, Liz McGivern, vice-president human resources, Red Carnation Hotels and Sara Jayne Stanes OBE, chief executive at the Academy of Culinary Arts.

Following an overwhelming response to last year's inaugural competition, which was won by Bartek Malek of the Jumeirah Carlton hotel in London, the competition is the perfect recognition for team members performing a vital role in the kitchen.

Jeff Galvin, who himself entered his KP in 2013 told Stephen Kinkead of Winterhalter that he would take a KP over a sous chef every day, and that their role is greatly underestimated.

Malek, the 2013 winner agreed: "Most kitchens would have trouble surviving without a KP."

Manuel Rehm, head of sales and marketing for Winterhalter Ltd, said: "Kitchen Porters are the people who really use our products. Our machines can bring down operational costs by 30% maybe but the KP can reduce it by half because if the KP is doing a good job you will not wash twice and if he or she is not organised they will waste your money and resources. KPs are at the forefront of economies in the kitchen."

Stephen Kinkead, managing director, Winterhalter UK, added: "If you have a business in hospitality and you have a KP, take this chance to recognise and reward them and enter these awards today."

The closing date for entries to the KP of the Year 2014 is 1 August. To enter, click here.