Q Catering at the double!
Buying group membership spurs foodservice wholesaler onto fantastic growth
Joining Fairway Foodservice has proved to be a recipe for success for Q Catering, which is celebrating a doubling in turnover in the time since joining the buying group.
The Kent-based foodservice wholesaler joined Fairway in 2014 and has seen its turnover grow to £8 million in that time – and has its sights firmly set on breaking the £10 million sales barrier in the not-too-distant future.
Q Catering’s achievements since entering Fairway’s batch of wholesalers highlights the benefits of being part of a buying group, with Q’s founder and Managing Director, Roger Snelling (pictured above), paying homage to the benefits his business receives.
“I found Fairway was the best fit after carrying out a lot of research and speaking to other wholesalers,” Snelling said.
“It genuinely cares about its members and their objectives, and will provide guidance in anyway possible to help you.
“As well as access to a huge range of products, the network of members gives us access to top industry intelligence, including trends in the market. For example, if a product is becoming popular, it will be quickly identified, allowing us to explore the option of stocking it.
“A vital part of our membership is access to Fairway’s own brand range, which is a cut above in quality and has generated a lot of repeat business from our customers.”
Q Catering had been an independent wholesaler since it first started trading in March 2003, but decided to take the plunge to join a buying for support on purchasing products, as well the chance to build relationships with more suppliers.
And since becoming part of Fairway, Snelling has been so impressed he joined its board of directors three years ago, while his company has seen all its numbers going north – not only doubling its turnover, but going from 24 to 46 employees and increasing the size of its premises to 18,000 square foot.
“The Fairway meet the member events are a highlight for our calendar, as they bring 40 suppliers under one roof, allowing us to meet key people in one location across two days,” Snelling added.
“We receive support on all sides of the business, with an online cost file to easily research suppliers, as well as the creation of bespoke literature such as price lists to support our marketing.
“Fairway stands out from other buying groups because it understands each member has varied needs and requirements. It attempts to be fair to every member and doesn’t insist on imposing the same condition to all members.
“It will find a certain supplier for some members, and another one for others, ensuring all are represented fairly under the Fairway brand.”
Fairway Fairway Foodservice Foodservice growth Q Catering Roger Snelling wholesaler
