Brakes gives helping hand to smaller suppliers

Wholesaler Brakes has launched an initiative to support small businesses that want to start supplying into the sector.

 

The ‘Get Set Supply!’ programme will see selected suppliers mentored by Brakes’ colleagues or other established suppliers, and offered a programme to drive sales through the company.

 

Following an online application process, around 12 shortlisted companies will be invited to a quarterly innovation session attended by hospitality operator customers and key procurement contacts. After the innovation session, successful suppliers will be selected to have their products listed.

 

The new suppliers will be given a programme of support to help them grow within Brakes, including sales presentations, sampling and promotion.

 

Brakes has also committed to training its merchandising team to provide support to food producers joining the programme.

 

Paul Nieduszynski, chief executive of Sysco GB, said: “It can sometimes be daunting for small suppliers to try to get into large businesses and, once there, to be successful.

 

“We want to demystify the process and provide support for around 25 new suppliers every year, giving them the opportunity to start supplying Britain’s foodservice market in a sustainable way that can grow with their business. We know that there are some great products out there and we want to help those companies tell their story.

 

“Our programme will be a real incubator for talent and, as part of the world’s leading foodservice wholesaler, who knows where it will take them!”

 

Applications for the first wave of Get Set Supply! nominees are now open.

 

Last year, Brakes’ fresh produce arm, Fresh Direct, began listing Kent-based GrowUp Farms’ salad and baby leaves. This was the third partnership for the Brakes Group business with a British vertical farm, following the addition of Norwich’s Fischer Farms in 2023.