Food Chain - Issue 204 - February 2025 | Page 92

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produce , which now comprises around 4000 lines . We have also recently added a line of tableware and are discussing the possibility of adding fresh bread .
“ Tableware is available through the marketplace on our website . When a customer places an order , it is added to their regular invoice but is shipped directly from the manufacturer . The marketplace will enable us to significantly increase our product range , leading to growth in the range of products we physically stock in a traditional manner , while also allowing us to offer items with low sales volumes . It represents an exciting addition to the company ’ s capabilities .”
Positive impact
Turning to the topic of sustainability , Darren shares Woods Foodservice ’ s multifaceted commitment to making a positive impact : “ Our strapline is ‘ sustainable foodservice ’.
In addition to caring for the environment , this means creating a business that will last and be here in ten- , 20- , or 30-years ’ time . To maintain a sustainable business , you need to constantly reinvest . A significant portion of the money we make goes back into the business . We recently installed a new loading bay canopy on our second warehouse for example . We have also invested in crates and a crate washing machine for our fresh produce , which is another significant investment that has reduced our environmental impact . We ’ ve invested in 12 brand-new electric trucks that offer several benefits ; not only are they exceptional vehicles with three separate compartments - frozen , chilled , and ambient - but they also help us reduce our environmental impact . Additionally , we have a new fleet of lorries , allowing us to send out one lorry instead of two or three vans .
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