Editor ’s Foreword
PUBLISHER
Planet Media & Design Ltd
Brooke’s Mill Huddersfield HD4 7NR
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Jillian Evans
NATIONAL SALES MANAGER
Shazia Hussain
CHIEF EDITOR
David Barnett
SUB-EDITOR
Abigail Wears
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Since the last issue of the magazine we have had a momentous change in this country: a new government is in place
What that will mean for the food and drinks industry remains to be seen We have all been through a tumultuous few years and trading conditions have been to put it very mildly difficult across all parts of the sector
Our new government, we know full well, can’t wave a magic wand but we are hoping that they will quickly realise how important our sector is to the UK economy and that the policies we will see emerging from the new Cabinet over the coming months reflect that
David Barnett CHIEF EDITOR
INCREASING USE OF PROJECTED
SIGNS IMPROVING
HYGIENE AND SAFETY IN FOOD MANUFACTURING
Leading companies are replacing traditional painted and printed signs with hygiene and safety signage which is projected on to surfaces using LED technology
That’s according to Projected Image, specialists who work with major food manufacturers like Coca- Cola and MOWI Scotland
“Signage in food factories can be difficult to apply and maintain, so projecting safety signs on to surfaces with clear bright and consistent light is the solution,” says Ian Spoors, MD of Projected Image
Projected Image works with many food manufacturers who are reporting greater adherence to projected signs
Major food manufacturer, Dunbia, said: We ve installed rotating projected images at
entry points to our hand-wash and hygiene rooms to ensure that food safety remains a focus for all The vivid colours and rotating images are eye-catching and the messaging is clear ”
Projected Image is the UK’s only dedicated provider of both LED projectors and custommade gobo slides
“Painted signage can produce contaminants and printed signs may harbour bacteria Many companies are finding that projected safety signs are the long-term, low-maintenance solution for safer and cleaner workspaces,” concludes Ian
For more information, visit: https://www.projectedimage.com
VALUE AND VERSATILITY WITH SEARA’S HIGH NUTRITION PRODUCTS IN THE UK
As the first Brazilian company to export to Europe, Seara remains an integral part of the UK’s culinary landscape; as one of the UK’s leading poultry suppliers, Seara has been providing high-quality frozen chicken for over 60 years to businesses and families alike, boasting an extensive and diverse range of chicken products In June, Seara was a sponsoring partner of the British Frozen Food Federation s (BFFF) annual awards, bringing its expertise to celebrate the industry ’ s achievements over the past year
Seara s European presence has grown with eight poultry-processing plants approved for export to the UK and Europe This has enabled it to establish strong relationships with a broad variety of customers across foodservice, wholesale and the wider industry in the UK
Renowned for its extensive and diverse range of chicken products, Seara consistently sets the standard for excellence Seara offers a variety of products to meet all consumer needs including its classic range of premium coated, cooked and roasted
chicken, as well as its selection of convenience products, which features karaage chicken southern fried popcorn chicken, chicken dippers and wings available in plain roasted, hot and spicy, and BBQ flavours
With food inflation and the current economic state, Seara has seen an increasing demand for chicken products
The BFFF and Kantar reported that frozen savoury products experienced sustained demand, increasing by 3 1% in the first
quarter of 2024 Consumers are prioritising sustainably produced, nutritious and affordable options for their shopping baskets, prompting Seara to continually diversify its extensive range of chicken products to meet the evolving needs of customers
Alexandre Mattos for Seara in Europe, states:, Seara is committed to offering cost-effective frozen food options without compromising on quality The rise in demand for savoury frozen products indicates that consumers want products that are not only high in nutritional value but also affordable without sacrificing taste Our frozen chicken consistently allows for this ” Seara looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the BFFF and its members to deliver top-quality products to the UK market
For more information about Seara, please visit: https://searaprofessional.com/.
OPEN SEASON FOR CRAYFISH
The Kennet Crayfish Company Limited, based in Thatcham Berkshire has created the UK’s largest bio-secure freshwater crayfish processing facility It is eco-friendly, humane and uses pure, chalk-stream water to handle wild crayfish from the River Kennet The company is now in full swing bringing in the new season of crayfish in time for summertime menus
The facility is the brainchild of local design engineer and crayfish specialist, Andrew Leech, Managing Director of the company Andrew explains: We have special licences to process crayfish and to use water from the
River Kennet Our bio-secure facility enables stress-free processing of the crayfish to sell chilled or frozen vastly improving quality of
the final product ”
These signal crayfish are smaller freshwater cousins of lobsters and thought by many to have a superior flavour, much prized by top chefs and foodies around the world The signal crayfish are versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways, for example in salads, as a pasta dish or even just to dip in a cocktail sauce Most crayfish currently sold in the UK are imported from fish farms in the polluted rivers of China
www.kennetcrayfish.com
TGI FRIDAYSTM LAUNCHES A BRAND-NEW ALL-AMERICAN MENU REVAMP THIS SUMMER WITH 20 NEW DISHES
the original American cocktail bar and restaurant, is going back to its American roots with the launch of a brand-new menu this summer The new menu includes 20 new, mouthwatering American inspired dishes, alongside a range of delicious Smashed Burgers
The new menu honours the rich Americana heritage that defines TGI FridaysTM, which began on the corner of East 63rd Street and 1st Avenue in New York back in 1965 with the timeless promise ‘In here, it’s always Friday ’ With 85 locations nationwide, the restaurant delivers an authentic American dining experience offering guests classic dishes and flavours that transport them straight to the USA
As part of the new menu, TGI FridaysTM
will now offer its own range of Smashed Burgers High-quality chuck & brisket beef expertly smashed on the grill locking in the juicy goodness and flavour Guests can create their very own Smashed Burger creations with a fully customisable DIY option or opt for a Fridays™ favourite These include the FridaysTM
Glazed Smashed Burger with TGI Fridays™ Legendary Glaze and crispy bacon or the Big Cheese Dipper Smashed Burger with an extra beef patty, mozzarella dippers
and crispy bacon
For guests looking for big and bold allAmerican flavours additional stand-out dishes from the new menu include:
Cheese Donuts - Cheesy Ring Donuts, dusted with a sweet & smoky seasoning and served with chilli jam
Pork Riblets - Tender Pork Riblets coated in a choice of rich BBQ sauce or the iconic FridaysTM
Legendary Glaze for a taste of an authentic backyard BBQ
Maple Glazed Corn Ribs - Chargrilled corn ribs tossed in maple glaze, smoky BBQ seasoning and drizzled with chilli cream Fridays™ Cobb Salad
– A colourful explosion of flavour A traditional Cobb Salad with a TGIs twist including maple glazed bacon pink pickled onions, eggs, crispy onions and a choice of dressing
Potato Tots – One of America’s most loved sides; crispy mini potato bites coated in TGI FridaysTM special seasoning
Cajun Spiced Mac & Cheese - The ultimate comfort dish, featuring creamy Cajun sauce with the option to add a choice of toppings
Ultimate American Grill -; A flame-grilled feast , including sirloin steak, BBQ beef short ribs garlic & lemon chicken breast BBQ wings, Legendary Glaze Pork
Ribs, fries, blue cheese lettuce wedges, Cajun spiced onion rings, corn ribs and slaw
A true taste of America
Cheese & Maple Bacon Loaded FriesHouse fries loaded with Cajun cheese sauce, maple bacon and chilli cream
Pecan Pie – Go nuts for this vegan dessert with its sweet gooey centre, topped with glazed pecans No American-inspired menu would be complete without this classic pie
Rhiannon Scarlett Chief Marketing Officer commented: At TGI FridaysTM we have always taken pride in bringing our UK visitors a taste of America The new menu launching just in time for summer marks a celebration of our heritage, heart and home, with mouthwatering, authentic and fresh flavours TGI FridaysTM has always been a place where guests can come as they are and enjoy a special meal, so we re thrilled to offer a brand-new selection of dishes that celebrate our American roots for people to come together with family and friends
The new menu is available now at all 85 locations across the UK
Guests can try it out by booking a table here
www.tgifridays.co.uk/book-atable
VIKINGS AND GODDESSES ADOPTS COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING
Vikings and Goddesses is a Minnesotabased wholesale bakery that supplies over 30 restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores with a variety of baked goods and desserts During the pandemic, they developed a line of frozen products to bring home-made bakery quality to home ovens
In line with their sustainability values and consumer demand, Vikings and Goddesses has now chosen a new compostable packaging sourced from Elk Packaging The high-performance structure includes a high barrier cellulose film layer, NatureFlex™ film sourced from Futamura, laminated to a biofilm ensuring a hermetic seal This final structure is independently certified compostable by BPI, proving that it will compost in a commercial compost setting
This new packaging still meets all the technical requirements: excellent pack integrity is maintained throughout the process and distribution, ensuring that the grocery stores can handle the product and it will remain intact in the end users home
freezers Additionally the gusset pouch produced takes less space on grocery store shelves than a cardboard box or the bakery ’ s previous packaging
Rachel Anderson Owner of Vikings and Goddesses expressed that: I am pleased to
have found a compostable solution to our packaging challenge with our converterpartner Elk Packaging Not only is the new solution compostable it also works technically without the addition of a sticker or liner, that would need to be removed before tossing into the compost bin’
Jeanne Cloutier Director of Sustainability at Elk Packaging, detailed that: ‘ This has been a great project for Elk Our challenge was to find a film that printed well, allowed for a clear window and stood up to the harsh freezer environment It was important to gain BPI certification while having packaging sourced from sustainably managed wood inputs We are delighted to have found a solution that stands out in a dark and crowded freezer space ’
Elisha Hedin Regional Sales Manager at Futamura added: we are excited that our NatureFlex film has been chosen to be part of this compostable solution for Vikings and Goddesses Our renewable and compostable films are a good choice for this application
BLUEWATER UNVEILS WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED COFFEE BREWING SOLUTION
World-leading water purification and beverage innovator Bluewater has unveiled a ground-breaking professional water purification and mineralisation system exclusively designed for baristas Showcased at the Copenhagen’s World of Coffee trade show at the end June, the Bluewater Cafe Station is designed to help quality-minded baristas enhance the flavours of coffee to perfection
“Bluewater is empowering baristas – from the smallest bistro to the largest chain – to take control over the water they use to make the perfect coffee,” said Maximillian Lundin, a former Swedish chef who heads Bluewater s coffee division Noting that water is crucial to brewing great coffee, Maximillian says the Bluewater Cafe Station uniquely transforms the bean-to-taste bud journey allowing coffee-brewing professionals to deliver a perfect brew every
time by adapting to the coffee beans used to bring out their unique flavours
Apart from ensuring water is purified to remove toxic contaminants like PFAS chemicals or lead, a unique feature is the way the system also adds uniquely liquidised blends of minerals harvested from high-grade Swedish mountain rock It’s the
world’s only mineral solution that doesn’t cause scaling while heating
Discover more at https://www.bluewatergroup. com/en-gb/solutions/serviceindustry/cafes-and-coffee-shops
Secur ity f or state-of-t he-ar t
skyscrapers in Tel Aviv
The underground garage doors at t he new l y built Rubinst ein Towers in Tel Aviv/Israel open and close several hundred times a da y. The high-speed spiral doors from t he premium manufacturer EFAFLEX ensure t hat pedestrians cannot get into t he traf f ic lanes and provide prot ection against unaut hor ised access The barriers, like those installed at the entr y and exit in ever y car park , are also connected to an automatic number plate recognition system This guarantees improved security on the five par king levels below t he two 34-storey of f ice towers and t he shopping centre on the ground floor.
The requirement for the installation of the EFA-SST®-L high-speed spiral doors from EFAFLEX was their compatibility with the barriers installed inside. These, in turn, are equipped with an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) system, Ram Zahavi, Managing Director of A ADIRAN Engineering & Agencies Ltd , the long- standing EFAFLEX partner in Israel, describes the specific requirements for the doors used Car drivers do not have to interact with the system at all in order to access the car park There are no tickets, no paperwork and no printer The monitoring and billing work exclusively with detection of the number plate The process is unique in that no wiring nor communication infrastructure is required. The system connects to the cloud operating software via a mobile network
The underground garage has two entry lanes and two exit lanes, as well as two pay- on-foot stations When a vehicle drives up to the entrance or leaves the garage again, the EFAFLEX high- speed doors open at the same time as the barriers as soon as the opening command is given and close again as soon as the vehicle has passed through As a result, pedestrians don’t get any ideas about running into the car lanes from outside or leaving the car park that way. This significantly improves safety for drivers and for pedestrians
High door leaf speed wit h low space requirements
The spiral door technology from EFAFLEX remains unrivalled to this day and is exemplary for worldwide door technology. No other design is able to combine the highest opening speeds, durability and effectiveness so well The EFA- SST® door leaf is not wound on a shaft but kept at a space - saving distance by the spiral- shaped guidance system Thanks to this mechanical principle, the spiral doors from EFAFLEX operate exceptionally quietly, are extremely fast and almost wear-free
Thanks to the unique design of the EFAFLEX spirals, the spiral doors achieve top speeds of up to 2 5 m/s Therefore, they don’t just accelerate your work processes many times over, they also save energy thanks to their rapid opening and closing speeds The high- speed spiral doors from EFAFLEX impress customers all over the world due to their outstanding quality, maximum levels of security and superb durability The door is available in standard construction sizes up to 10,000 mm wide and 12,000 mm high and can handle up to 250,000 load cycles per year
They are also available in a wide range of designs and can be installed where space is limited. Owing to the low ceiling height in the Rubinstein Towers underground garage, the two doors are equipped with an oval spiral which takes up less space
Complete af ter five years of construction:
t he Rubinstein Towers
The two 34- storey office towers are located in a Tel Aviv office complex and are a welcome addition for business activity in the city They offer office spaces and a shopping centre across a total of 97,500 square metres
The area around the twin towers is bordered by three of the busiest streets in Tel Aviv near a future metropolitan railway and is located
opposite a large residential area which is currently undergoing development The two geometrically simple buildings have edges with a dynamic effect in the upper and lower areas to create a special dramatic effect
The ground floor, which houses the shopping centre, has an 18-metrehigh lobby which connects the towers and serves as a physical, visual and symbolic door to the nearby park
Sales and ser vice from one single source:
A . ADIRAN Engineering & Agencies Ltd
A . ADIRAN Engineering & Agencies Ltd is Israel’s leading company when offering complete solutions for industrial buildings, based on professional planning and implementation of automatic doors, industrial ventilation systems, vehicle equipment and environmental technology The company is Israel’s sole representative of the world’s leading manufacturers in these fields and, based on these partnerships, can plan, provide and implement innovative technological solutions and ongoing services for customers A ADIRAN Engineering & Agencies Ltd has been able to maintain its position on the Israeli market since its founding in 1987 thanks to its deep understanding of customers’ needs, provision of high- quality solutions and an uncompromising level of service Based on extraordinarily well- organised professional marketing and service capacities, the reliable EFAFLEX partner stands out thanks to technical advice, importing products from the world’s leading manufacturers, installation and maintenance throughout the country
Company information EFALEX
EFAFLEX produces high- speed doors for industrial applications The company, which was founded in 1974, works for clients from industry, trade, food production, and the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, among others As the only manufacturer in the field of high- speed industrial doors, EFAFLEX is listed in the world market leader index and is therefore one of the top 461 companies in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The family company employs more than 1,200 people worldwide With its headquarters in Bruckberg, Bavaria, EFAFLEX is firmly anchored as the largest employer in the region In addition, the company opens up international markets with 10 subsidiaries on five continents EFAFLEX generates over 40% of sales abroad
EFAFLEX Press Contact : Ms Jasmin Jobst Tel.: +49 8765 82-525
E-mail: Jasmin.Jobst@efaflex.com Web: www.efaflex.com
FORGET CHEESE AND WINE NIGHT, IT’S ALL ABOUT WHISKY PAIRINGS IN 2024
Whisky is shaking up the food pairing scene! Forget cheese and wine – explore bold flavour combinations like smoky Islay malts with sharp Cheddar or Campbeltown drams with charcuterie Pairings go beyond just complementing the whisky; they create a symphony of taste Imagine a coastal single malt infused into a lemon butter for scallops or a Speyside dram enhancing the smokiness of cured salmon
Ready to experiment? Take Old Pulteney s online quiz to win a 15-year-old bottle of Old Pulteney (valued over £70) and discover surprising flavour pairings
Scotland’s whisky regions & pairings:
Each of Scotland’s five whisky regions boasts unique flavours:
• Speyside: Gentle honeyed whiskies (e g
Glenfiddich) pair well with creamy cheeses, smoked salmon or even desserts
• Highland: Offering a wider range from floral to malty (e g Dalwhinnie) they complement richer dishes like roast lamb or grilled vegetables
• Lowland: Known for their smooth, grassy character (e g Glenkinchie) they find harmony with lighter fare like oysters or white fish
• Islay: Bold, smoky whiskies (e g Ardbeg) are a daring match for strong cheeses or game meats
• Campbeltown: Offering a balance of fruit and spice (e g Springbank) they pair well with red meats or cured meats
A coastal twist with Old Pulteney:
Location can also influence flavour Old Pulteney a single malt matured by the sea
has a distinctive briny character, making it perfect for seafood Try it with seared scallops in a lemon butter sauce, pan-fried cod with seaweed salad smoked salmon carpaccio or a prawn cocktail with a touch of whisky in the dressing
These are just a starting point Explore different regional styles and food combinations to find what delights your palate
Take Old Pulteney s online quiz to learn about regional flavour profiles and food pairing Whether a seasoned whisky veteran or just starting out in your journey, this interactive experience can be your passport to unforgettable culinary discoveries Expand your knowledge and be in with a chance to win a bottle of Old Pulteney 15-year-old single malt
SUGATRAK REVAMPED TO MAKE REAL-TIME DATA CAPTURE ON FOOD MANUFACTURE WASTE
EVEN EASIER AND MORE DETAILED
SugaRich launches revamped version of SugaTrak, its waste management tool that helps pinpoint avoidable waste on food production lines, enables greener performance and increases revenue
SugaRich is delighted to announce a major update to SugaTrak its cutting-edge waste management tool SugaTrak is designed to streamline waste tracking, optimise resource allocation and enhance sustainability efforts for food manufacturing businesses of all sizes
This update marks a significant milestone in revolutionising waste management solutions streamlining production outputs and reducing waste for SugaRich clients
SugaTrak now delivers its exemplary service in fresh new ways:
• There are enhanced visuals as a sleek and contemporary interface has been designed to elevate the user experience
• SugaTrak’s new dynamic dashboard has been re-designed to provide deeper
insights and smoother navigation
• Finding key information to support analysis is now easier with more filtering choices, so data can now be streamlined and detailed
Alex Keogh, Managing Director of SugaRich says: Honouring the waste hierarchy means the elimination of waste in every part of the manufacturing process SugaTrak is helping our customers to comply with the waste hierarchy by
providing a tool to help eliminate waste throughout production As with all the technological innovation and growth at SugaRich, we owe a huge debt of gratitude to all our clients who have provided invaluable feedback along the way Their insights have played a pivotal role in shaping SugaTrak into its latest high-performance iteration ”
If your organisation is ready to eliminate avoidable waste in its production line and you want to know more about, SugaTrak email: webcontact@sugarich co uk
www.sugarich.co.uk
ACTI-SNACK LAUNCHES NEW PROTEIN TRIPLE CHOCOLATE GRANOLA & GOOD GUT TRIPLE NUT
GRANOLA INTO THE BREAKFAST CATEGORY
Performance Snacks & Granola brand ACTI-SNACK have added to their breakfast portfolio with two new products – Protein Crunch Triple Chocolate Granola and Good Gut Triple Nut Granola ACTI-SNACK believe in fuelling well to perform well for the day ahead with real food that tastes great All their granolas are batch-made at their dedicated manufacturing site in Co Armagh ACTI-SNACK Protein Crunch Triple Chocolate Granola is a protein-boosted cocoa and wholegrain oat granola with real white chocolate and dark chocolate chunks
for delicious taste Each bowlful has 20% protein as well as being a good source
of fibre
ACTI-SNACK Good Gut Triple Nut Granola taps into the booming market for gut-friendly foods by being packed with nuts and oat grain fibre to support good gut health as well as being low in sugar and vegan
The range is available online and in selected retailers, at an RRSP of £4 25 for 350g-380g
SWIZZELS SQUASHIES FOR FOOD & DRINK VENUES
Swizzels has been creating some of the nation’s favourite sweet treats since 1928, making it one of the longest-running sweet factories in the world The Swizzels product range began with the classic Rainbow Drops and quickly expanded to include the original compressed fizzy sweet Fizzers Today Swizzels is known for the popular Squashies available in different flavours, as well as Love Hearts, Lollies, Chew Bars and much more!
The company has stayed at the forefront of the sugar confectionery industry by combining nostalgia with innovation
The sugar confectionery category is about more than just indulgence; it s about creating moments of happiness and connection within every setting
Recognising this, Swizzels has developed a new range of Squashies designed to meet the evolving demands of today s consumers, especially in foodservice settings
With the increasing trend of on-the-go snacking Swizzels 60g and 120g packs of Squashies are perfectly suited for every occasion and environment Both pack sizes are ideal for placement in cafes, pubs, vending arenas conference areas and a host of other foodservice venues
Foodservice settings present a significant opportunity for Swizzels Squashies By
stocking the popular sweets, businesses can enhance the customer experience with a familiar and wellloved treat Whether it’s a sweet addition to a cafe menu or a tasty offering in a pub, these packs provide a convenient way for consumers to enjoy their favourite Squashies while out and about Swizzels continues to create sweet moments and spread joy with every bite, remaining a beacon of both tradition and innovation in the world of sugar confectionery
So whether you re grabbing a pack for yourself or stocking up for your venue, Swizzels Squashies in its handy 60g and 120g packs promise to deliver smiles,
memories and a taste of nostalgia wherever life takes you
AKZONOBEL PACKAGING COATINGS LAUNCHES A NEW RANGE OF NEXT GENERATION
AND
COATINGS FOR EASY OPEN ENDS
AkzoNobel Packaging Coatings has launched the SecurshieldTM 500 Series PVC-free and bisphenol-free (BPXni) internal coating for easy open food can ends that meets current and future regulatory standards while at the same time offering a step-up improvement in sustainability and performance compared to current organosol-based products on the market
The SecurshieldTM 500 Series can be seamlessly swapped into existing manufacturing processes with broad suitability for a wider range of metal food packs – meaning coil coaters can use this single technology to meet the varying needs of many food can manufacturers The Series is being launched at a challenging time for coil coaters can makers and their customers as the European Commission continues to phase out the use of bisphenols and, with NGOs and retailers are increasingly concerned about plastics being used in food packaging
The new PVC-free, BPXni internal coating for easy open ends (EOE) comes in either an aluminium or gold sizecoat, with a gold topcoat and can be applied with rollers, resulting in an optimized line efficiency even on tandem lines and chrome-free substrates It is suitable for most food types due to improved chemical resistance to corrosion from salty or acidic preserved foods such as vegetables fish or fruit
Chris Bradford, Industrial Coatings Marketing Director at AkzoNobel, believes this innovative coating will help customers
transition more easily to a Bisphenol-free and PVC-free future: SecurshieldTM 500 Series is another example of how we are working with manufacturers to meet the challenges they face today and in the future he says “ We have set out our clear intention to launch new products free from materials of concern (MOC ) he explains We ve already committed to a future without the use of bisphenols to protect metal packaging and have created the SecurshieldTM 500 Series in response to changing bisphenol legislation and the European food packaging industry ’ s increasing concern for the use of PVC
SecurshieldTM 500 Series also integrates easily into existing manufacturing processes, ” he continues “Food packaging manufacturers can produce a premium easy open-end product in a wide range of metal packaging types for their customers while reducing complexity, increasing productivity, and keeping production costs down This
allows can makers to switch to MOC-free coatings and remain as commercially viable as possible ”
The release of the SecurshieldTM 500 Series is part of AkzoNobel’s next-generation portfolio of solutions for food packaging that reinforce our commitment to a Bisphenolfree future, with more solutions to be introduced in the coming months under the product names Securshield™ (for internal coatings) and Securstyle™ (for external coatings)
The launch of SecurshieldTM 500 Series follows the recent launches of nextgeneration beverage can coatings free from Bisphenol (BPXni), styrene and PFAS AkzoNobel s growing family of nextgeneration technologies is providing the metal can packaging industry with viable and safe alternatives for even the most challenging foods and liquids that comply with the current and future Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and EU regulations
For more information on the SecurshieldTM 500 Series, please visit:
https://packagingcoatings.akzo nobel.com/en/foodcans/securshield500
Independent brewers diversify and innovate to tackle pandemic fallout
The UK’s independent brewing sector is a “ rare manufacturing success stor y ” , according to Andy Slee, the CEO of the Society of Independent Brewers.
He wrote this in SIBA s last report which took the pulse of the sector during the whole of 2023, but sounded a note of caution
He said: Behind the skill and passion that goes into brewing that perfect pint or the bonhomie in the taproom on a busy Friday night, lies a sense of worry and foreboding ”
The pandemic of course was a huge hit to the industry but it also forced brewers to diversify experiment and innovate Slee said: “But amidst this turmoil, there is optimism as a result of the decisive action many brewers took during lockdown to radically overhaul their businesses to face a changing world
“It is this investment and innovation that is paying off for them now With margins being squeezed like never before it is higher-margin direct-to-consumer sales that have understandably been the key focus for SIBA members
“Our report this year finds huge growth again in the number of independent breweries now selling their beer through their own webshops, taprooms, brewery shops and pubs
“Overall beer volumes remain down on prepandemic levels so pushing beer through more profitable routes to market is a shrewd move
“It is incredible to see the huge growth in this direct route to market happen in such a short space of time, transforming independent brewing from a mainly production-focused industry into a vertically integrated retail sector ”
In February 2024 SIBA published updated figures, looking at the number of brewery closures over the past 12 months, and it was sobering reading
The figures released by the SIBA UK Brewery Tracker show the UK total number of active brewers now stands at 1815 compared to 1828 in January 2023
The data tracks all new brewery openings and closures to give a quarterly growth or closure rate, and despite a promising Q3 where numbers rose slightly, the tracker finished the year with a -2 Net closure rate in Q4, leading to an overall Net closure rate of -13 for 2023
Slee said: “ There is still so much that needs to be
done to protect independent breweries across the UK with help from government on a range of issues now more important than ever if we want to turn the tide and see a growing beer industry in 2024
Trading has been incredibly tough for independent breweries, and whilst the government’s welcome introduction of draught relief for beer sold in pubs and taprooms last year was welcome we would like to see it extended in 2024 to a significant 20% discount
The knock-on effect for consumers is not just a reduction in beer choice on the bar, but the loss of a valued local business – eight out of 10 consumers say a well-run independent brewery has a positive effect on its local community, and figures show SIBA’s independent brewery members employ over 10,000 people nationally As well as the overall UK figures the tracker also analyses the regional breakdown of brewery openings and closures, with some areas of the UK faring better than others Slee added: “ What is perhaps most worrying about the figures are the level of closures being experienced in the North of England – with the North West seeing a Net closure rate that is higher than the national figure at a huge -14, and the North East didn t fare much better with the second highest in the UK and a -9 Net closure rate for 2023 It is in these areas where the combined effect of rising production costs hurting margins and the cost of living crisis lowering sales appear to be hitting brewery businesses the hardest, with worrying independent brewery closure rates across the North ”
The North West had by far the toughest 12 months, with a significant -14 Net closure rate across 2023 with a -13 Net closure rate in Q4 alone – the highest of any region for any quarter of 2023 The North East also had a very tough year, with a – 9 Net closure rate in 2023, with -5 Net closures coming in Q4
The Welsh brewing industry also struggled, with a -6 Net closure rate for 2023, a -7 Net closure rate in the fourth quarter swinging the dial into the red for the country which began Q4 with a healthy +1 overall It was a similar story for the Midlands who ended the year with a -5 Net closure rate following a -7 closure rate in Q4, which it started on +2
Giant doors f or a stable climate at wor kstations
It is among the most cutting-edge in the world: the new company site for cross-laminated timber (CLT) in Ždírec, Czec h Republic, was inaugurated in October last year. The new production line makes an essential contr ibution to S TORA ENSO’s growt h strategy in t he timber construction solutions sector The annual production capacity is around 120,000 m³ This modern complex, costing 80 million euros, now includes 22 EFAFLEX high-speed doors Doors from the premium manufacturer EFAFLEX are also in use in Planá in Western Bohemia and Ostrava, two other sites in the Czec h Republic associated with the brand.
“Our company is dedicated to products based on timber and biomass It is therefore important to us that our customers and suppliers are also looking for environmentally friendly solutions EFAFLEX doors fit perfectly into this spectrum thanks to their speed, reliability and long service life The benefit of these doors is that they meet all the specified requirements, even for over- size products,” explains Tomáš Adamec, Technical Manager at STORA ENSO
High- speed doors from EFAFLEX are designed for industrial use They meet the high requirements demanded by modern operations, are reliable, and can save a significant amount of energy thanks to their high opening and closing speed “Another factor that is just as important is that fast-closing doors contribute to a stable climate at the workstation That creates more pleasant working conditions for the employees in the halls,” Tomáš Adamec describes further benefits of the doors.
High-speed doors for t he lorr y entrance
EFAFLEX has installed very high and wide doors at the Ždírec factory in order to allow large lorries to enter That ’ s why three EFA- SST®-XL Premium with respectable dimensions of almost 9 metres in width and 5 5 metres in height were chosen The fact that the doors are designed as external doors for halls and have good insulation is crucial, because the savings depend not only on the opening and closing speed, but also on the size of the doors to be opened The larger the opening for the airflow, the more important it is to close it again quickly so that the area around the door does not cool unnecessarily
High-speed doors on t he upper floor
But high- speed doors with large dimensions are not the only interesting applications at the STORA ENSO factory in Ždírec Three further highspeed doors on the upper floor level, EFA- SST®-L ECO, are used by forklifts to bring the material to the upper floor The doors each have dimensions of 3 x 3 metres, they are insulated, and they have an opening speed of up to 1.5 m/s. They can handle up to 200,000 load cycles per year
21 of the doors in Ždírec are external doors with an insulated design An interior door, the EFA- STR®- S, is used to separate interior areas
For safety and easy operation
In addition to the industrial doors, EFAFLEX offers a comprehensive range of safety accessories and thus guarantees that logistics go smoothly These include the EFA-TLG® infrared light curtain, which is integrated directly into the door closing line, for example Intersecting infrared rays create a flat light grid which can detect even the smallest obstacles without contact If something is in the way, the closing movement stops immediately or is not initiated in the first place This protects people, doors and transport equipment.
STORA ENSO – a sustainable manufacturer wit h products made from renewable raw material
Ždírec is the fourth STORA ENSO CLT factory after Bad St Leonhard and Ybbs in Austria and Gruvön in Sweden As a leading provider of renewable products in the packaging, biomaterials and timber construction sector, the company is also one of the largest private forest
owners in the world The STORA ENSO Wood Products division is the largest sawn timber producer in Europe and one of the leading providers of sustainable timber-based solutions for the global construction industry Sustainability is an integral part of the STORA ENSO business strategy
The growing Building Solutions division offers building concepts and a comprehensive range of products to support low - carbon construction The employees develop services and digital tools to simplify the planning and construction of buildings with timber
The company has around 21,000 employees and its turnover in 2022 was 11 7 billion euros
Company information EFALEX
EFAFLEX produces high- speed doors for industrial applications The company, which was founded in 1974, works for clients from industry, trade, food production, and the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, among others As the only manufacturer in the field of highspeed industrial doors, EFAFLEX is listed in the world market leader index and is therefore one of the top 461 companies in Germany, Austria and Switzerland The family company employs more than 1,200 people worldwide With its headquarters in Bruckberg, Bavaria, EFAFLEX is firmly anchored as the largest employer in the region In addition, the company opens up international markets with 10 subsidiaries on five continents EFAFLEX generates over 40% of sales abroad
EFAFLEX Press Contact :
Ms Jasmin Jobst Tel.: +49 8765 82-525
E-mail: Jasmin.Jobst@efaflex.com Web: www.efaflex.com
A greener summer for Herald
Quality disposables manufacturer and supplier, Herald has expanded its greener product lines to support growing customer demand and provide maximum choice…
Herald has long held a reputation as a supplier of uality, eco-friendly disposables however the popular catering supplier has further raised its game by committing to the expansion of its sustainable product range across the board this year
Having identified that most of its customers want more choice when it comes to eco-friendly goods, Herald is also recognising that there is a definite appeal to being able to source all sustainable products from the same supplier
Herald’s managing director, Yogesh Patel comments: We have a national standing as a supplier that provides a wide range of choice however we need to make sure that this identity is apparent when it comes to greener products
Our commitment to our customers and in turn their customers, is to make sure there is a varied selection of green options across each product line, at difffering price points – without losing the quality which identifies us as a market leader
The company recently moved its head office from Essex to Corby, in Northamptonshire, in a bid to secure a more central base in England, investing in larger premises with more storage
Yogesh adds: “ We’re keen for this move to reflect our ongoing commitment to the wider UK market and underpin our successes to date
Having extra storage facilities also means that we can hold more, allowing our customers to hold less and to order more regularly This means that they can use their own space effectively without tying it up with
surplus supplies
Supported by a 35-year history of identifying where the value lies for its customers and delivering without sacrificing quality Herald is in constant talks with suppliers to review and expand its product offering The company ‘ s eco range currently includes a full selection of compostable cups and bagasse items comprising of square round and rectangle plates in varying sizes along with bowls and hot boxes, chip trays, burger boxes, noodle boxes and other lunch boxes It also has a complete selection of wooden and cornstarch cutlery and eco-friendly meal packs
Yogesh explains: Most consumers are eco-conscious so it makes sense that ‘food to go ’ providers are sourcing disposable cutlery, meal packs, bags, cups and lunch boxes that qualify as sustainable
The expectation of the end-user should impact on any disposables selection Added to that, the changes in the law regarding plastic and you can see why sustainable goods are fast becoming the only feasible course of action when it comes to sourcing disposables
“Our job as supplier is to make sure the choice is varied and affordable and we re fully committed to continuing to expand our product offering to ensure this is the case ”
For further information on Herald and its products, log on to www.heraldplastic.com or call 0208 507 7900 to order a copy of the catalogue.
What does the coming year have on the menu for eating out?
The restaurant sector faced another challenging year in 2023… and innovation will be the key over the coming 12 months.
That’s the message from business analysts BDO in their health-check report on the restaurant sector in 2024
Mark Edwards Partner Head of Restaurants and Bars at BDO, wrote in his introduction to the report: The ability to adapt to changing conditions, whether caused by supply chain challenges, macro-economic impacts, changes in consumer behaviour including their location of work, or industrial action on our transport networks has been prevalent throughout 2023
“ While the December trading figures, especially in the crucial third week were positive it would be wrong to suggest that confidence is universally creeping through the sector ”
Many are hoping the economy will improve this year but Mark said that it s still an uphill battle for restaurants
He added: “ While we may have cautious optimism about falling inflation and interest rates, the reality remains that input prices and labour costs are materially higher than 2019 and so it feels like trading records need to be broken just to stand still in terms of conversion to earnings before interest, tax, depreciation
and amortization (EBITDA)
“Free cash flow is then also challenged with materially higher borrowing costs
What will 2024 have in store then? While we have attempted to offer some suggestions, I am fully aware that the year could offer more questions than answers as we navigate economic political and labour force changes over the coming year
“I remain optimistic, however, that operators are more skilled than ever before at dealing with challenges to trading and as always I expect innovation to be at the forefront over the next 12 months, through necessity and the sector ’ s desire to improve and fight for every discretionary pound available
The BDO suggests a number of priorities will take centre stage for the restaurant trade, including:
A sustainable green plan
“ While we are aware that ESG credentials (covering, of course, not just environmental issues) are key for some lenders and investors, there is a focus on where
the value is being driven – is it in consumer spending value enhancement (or lack of erosion) or in the ability to finance operations? Without doubt though there are two key areas to be aware of – firstly, any commitments to environmental targets need to be well thought through as failing to meet agreed targets is likely to attract negative attention Secondly, there is increasing focus and attention in both mass media and regulatory circles about greenwashing and we anticipate the negative publicity linked to this to be significantly damaging if businesses get caught up in it ”
An increasingly fragmented market
“
We are seeing already, and we anticipate this will increase over the coming year, the fragmentation of our market – different behaviours exhibited by Generation Z (Gen Z) compared to Millennials compared to Baby Boomers and differences in geographical locations between cities towns and villages
Pricing
The market feels like we have reached the natural elasticity on pricing where trading down spending less per visit, or worse, staying at home, is a reality which becomes habit – and one that is hard to break ”
Changes in consumer behaviour
“
There are a variety of trends which are emerging and being tweaked since our release from lockdowns and then the economic pressures which followed the Ukraine conflict and the Truss/Kwarteng mini-budget For example, the increasing use of cash allowing consumers to budget more effectively, the return of workers to offices (and we anticipate this increasing more and more as the economic conditions in the professional service sector in particular become more challenging), the increasing number of healthconscious individuals (including the reduction in drinking) the preference for craft over cask
Capitalising on positive news
We believe that there could be a strong end to the year If the stars align then over the next 12 months we could see interest rates fall, energy costs declining, headline inflation back on target, a good long summer and even potentially a post-election new government bounce The deal market is already anticipating a better year ahead for transactions, and we believe the momentum is going to build steadily as confidence grows in the sector and its ability to adapt to make the most of the improving conditions
Expansion on the cards for packaging company as it grows beyond ice cream
Takeaway Supplies, based in Dukinfield, Manchester, is in the process of moving to new, larger premises after making a series of business breakthroughs.
Famous mainly for their ice-cream-related packaging and accessory products, the company has seen in the last couple of years a major boost in demand for their services from the bakery sector
That has come alongside a sea-change in the way that the food and drink sector uses packaging, with a move away from plastic and towards more environmentally-friendly materials
Whereas the traditional plastic spoon used for eating ice cream on the go was once one of Takeaway Supplies major sellers they have now embraced the green revolution – and it s paying off
Out goes the plastic and in comes wooden spoons, alongside a range of new compostable and environmentally-friendly products
That alongside the expansion into the bakery sector has prompted the need to take on more staff and begin the search for a new home
Jonathan Susca of Takeaway Supplies says One thing we want to do more of is inviting customers into our facilities an involving them directly in the process of creating their products
It s still quite the early stages of our search but we re looking for a place that will be our headquarters for at least the next 15 years and give us space to grow into ”
Takeway Supplies is a national ice cream packaging, food packaging food ingredients and point of sale items stockist and distributor, specialising in supplying a wide range of containers, ingredients and unique point of sale items They work with many different sectors of the food industry both foodservice and manufacturing including ice cream and gelato manufacturers, wholesalers and sellers bakeries, deli’s and takeaways, as well as catering firms and events organisers
The team at Takeaway Supplies offers the expertise and experience needed to work within any industry so that they can advise and supply their extensive ranges of packaging and ingredients solutions
They can handle projects from concept to completion that provide innovative, efficient and costeffective solutions to all clients, whilst ensuring outstanding service that is both flexible and accommodating
They also pride themselves on proving that no customer is too big or too small to benefit from the specialist service that they provide Their friendly but professional approach means that their customers come back to them time and time again
Their highly envied reputation relies on the company ’ s ‘Success through Service’ ethos This means providing the consistent delivery of first-class solutions competitive prices and a professionalism that has helped to secure many clients
The company began when Angelo Susca formed the Takeaway Supplies Group 15 with partner Gordon Tickle, he was setting in motion a business that would become one of the premier suppliers of ice-creamrelated packaging in the country with family values at its core
One of the major triumphs of the last 15 years is TAS Group becoming the main UK agent for the Romanian ice cream and gelato products company Cremolinea
Cremolinea says: We turned our passion for ice cream into our business mission And our mission is to create that authentic and original experience that only high-quality ingredients and artisanal craft can get for you That is why we create our own recipes that we develop and constantly improve for offering authentic experiences and the sweetest of memories to all ice cream lovers It’s the details that make the real difference
Jonathan Susca says: “ TAS Group was founded by Angelo Susca, my dad, with Gordon Tickle He was an ex ice cream mass producer turned consultant offering guidance to new and existing manufacturers on
perfecting products anything from ice lollies to Arctic rolls Whilst the consultancy side of the business grew, we became manufacturers’ agents for various ingredients and packaging manufacturers
The children were introduced to the business Jonathan, Elisa and Angelo Jnr around 2013 Since then we are now stockists of all of the items in our catalogue and we supply ice cream packaging and ingredients all over the UK
Ice cream containers are a vital purchase for any maker of ice cream for both storing ingredients, storing the finished product and, of course, for serving customers
Across the range of ice cream storage containers TAS Group offer differing shapes, sizes and pack sizes to accommodate all types of product and all sizes of business Their square and rectangular items are perfect for storing and serving ice cream, whilst their bottles and buckets are ideal ingredients The Napoli range is incredibly popular with ice cream parlours and their large ice cream storage containers are one of their biggest sellers
And it’s not just packaging Their flavourings are available in liquid paste or compound format in a range of sizes and weights
They pride themselves on being able to match or create any flavour a customer desires, through their flavouring mixing service Aside from that, they do of course offer pre-prepared vanillas strawberries and chocolate flavours alongside some more unique flavours such as bubblegum, Irn-Bru, marzipan, blackcurrant and much more
www.takeawaysupplies.co.uk
Black is the new green for ace growers Pixley Berries
Pixley Berries of Herefordshire is one of the recipients of a £1m fund set up by leading drinks brand Innocent to help its growers and suppliers go greener through regenerative agriculture.
The winners of the money were announced in June after top smoothie brand Innocent opened the fund in March inviting suppliers across the world to apply Applications came from across the globe, including the UK Europe and India as part of a drive by Innocent to decarbonise its supply chain
The company aims to achieve a 50% reduction of its scope 3 emissions by 2030 with over half of its emissions coming from its suppliers
Among the winners in the new Farmer Innovation Fund, announced on 5 June, are Pixley Berries, who are among 11 growers mainly in the UK and Europe for projects that support the transition to low-carbon farming
The funding will also help growers to boost biodiversity and deliver fairer farming practices
Innocent says that over half of its emissions comes from its ingredients
Funding offered to businesses include those with a
focus on priority fruits such as apples and oranges which produce the highest levels of Innocent’s emissions
Within the total fund of £1m, grants are being offered to 11 grower businesses in the UK Europe India Costa Rica and Nicaragua, of between £20,000 - £500,000
Pixley Berries, aseptic juice ingredient supplier and blackcurrant growers have been awarded the grant to support growing trials using biostimulants and a sensory device to study and analysis blackcurrant crops over the next three years, with the aim of mitigating some of the risks of climate change
Anna Ralph of Pixley Berries said: Being a winner for the second year running means we can advance our work to identify pragmatic approaches with deliverable benefits to blackcurrant growing and other crops
By combining biostimulants measuring chlorophyll microbials, and focusing on minimum cultivations we ’ re pioneering a new approach
Through this we hope to develop a revitalised agronomy fit for our times, both adapting to and mitigating climate change ”
Nick Canney CEO of Innocent Drinks, added: “Our Farmer Innovation Fund enables us to build meaningful partnerships with our suppliers to help make sure we can keep enjoying fruit and veg for years to come
“ This year ’ s winners are embarking on some truly innovative projects that show real potential for playing a part in the future of farming ”
Pixley Berries is a small, dynamic team of around 26 people that produces more than 40 different products tThe family-run business was founded in 2004 by chairman Edward Thompson and are this year celebrating their 20th birthday
Pixley Berries is primarily a juice ingredient supplier supported by their farm based in the heart of the Herefordshire countryside surrounded by fields of glorious fruit
They create their own range of cordials as well as being specialist ingredient suppliers for other manufacturers, retailers and brand owners
Pixley Berries cordials are made with lashings of real, not from concentrate, fruit juice, sugar, water and nothing else”
For example, their classic Blackcurrant Cordial sells direct from them in a box of six 500ml bottles for £21 made using their own secret blackcurrant variety, Pixley Black, which they say “ loves our weather and dark red Herefordshire soils Gorgeously rich, boasting big fruit flavour and depth
According to Pixley: We live for the taste, flavour,
aroma and colour derived from the fruits we squeeze and supply a naturally delicious cordial which contains lashing of juice, sugar, and water Nothing else
Our range includes our beloved Blackcurrant made from our unique Pixley Black selected for fantastic flavour and the ability to withstand present changes to climate ”
The company is very environmentally focused which obviously stood them in good stead when it
Helping organisations to transport goods all over the world without ‘loss or damage’
Octobox can be used for multi-trip applications, shipped, stored, and stacked flat between journeys, allowing your business to benefit from additional space, reduced transport costs and when our box’s reach the end of their lives, they can be returned, refurbished, and reused
came to drawing the attention of the Innocent Farmer Innovation Fund
They say: “ We are increasingly conscious of the need to grow plants in a responsible way Nettles and other wild plants are given the opportunity to prosper on our headlands, encouraging a natural habitat for butterflies, moths and their larvae We’re always looking at sustainable practice and consider ourselves early adopters in this respect
“ We carefully select our fruit-growing sites, based on soil type, aspect, height above sea level and surrounding environmental features such as hedgerows and woodland reservoirs of insects and the natural ecology Our blackcurrants particularly enjoy our deep, rich silty clay loams associated with the old hopgrowing areas of Herefordshire providing good reserves of moisture and nutrients during our drier
summers
“ We enjoy several hectares of ancient woodland, a number of old coppices and old orchards Our old hedgerows are thriving with mature trees, oak, ash, thorn, cherry, field maple, willow and alder, and wild rose too ”
It s their commitment to superior service and expertise in the industry that sets them apart, says Anna Ralph, who adds, “Because we ’ re small team we can be more dynamic and react to what our customers need and want very quickly
The company utilises technologies and range of processes within food production chains Processing many different raw materials including: Apples, pears, berries and vegetables
Blackcurrants are the life blood of the business’s
proud family heritage Although the company as it exists today was begun 20 years ago, its history goes back much further than that
More than 50 years ago handpicked blackcurrants were being grown Forward thinking chairman and founder Edward, commisioned his own ‘Pressoir ’ , a purpose built juice factory in 2004, making him the only blackcurrant grower in Britain to be entirely vertically integrated and in control of every element of his production, from the soil to shelf, bush to bottle
The wealth of knowledge in agri supply chains means Pixley understands completely the intricacies of the food and drink manufacturing process That s why they offer a comprehensive range of contract pressing services tailored to meet customer needs:
They say: Whether you re looking to deliver your own raw materials or need assistance securing them, our contract pressing services ensure that your produce is handled with care and expertise from start to finish
Products include, Rhubarb NFC and concentrates
(30brix and 50brix apple juices pear strawberry raspberry All ingredients associated with growing in the UK
Supply Chain Expertise: “Leverage our extensive knowledge and network in the supply chain to optimise your operations From sourcing raw materials to distribution, we ’ re here to support you every step of the way ”
Personalised Service: As a family-run business we value relationships You can expect our support tailored to your specific needs ”
Packaging Solutions: “Choose from a range of packaging options to suit your requirements Whether it’s aseptic pack formats or non-aseptic jerry cans, we ’ ve got you covered ”
Quality Assurance: At Pixley Berries, quality is never compromised Our stringent quality control measures ensure that every product meets the highest standards ”
Reliability: “Count on us for dependable service and timely delivery We understand the importance of meeting deadlines and strive to exceed your expectations every time ”
Storage Solutions: “Need a safe and reliable storage solution for your juice until you need it? Look no further Our storage facilities are equipped to handle your storage needs ”
Rightly proud of their secret varieties as they are, Pixley Berries are also very generous in sharing recipe ideas with consumers
For example, how about some Hot Spiced Blackcurrant?
Ingredients
100ml Pixley Blackcurrant Cordial
250ml Apple Juice
200ml Water
1 Sliced Clementine
1 Star anise
1 Cinnamon Stick
4 Cloves
3 Black Peppercorns
1tbs Brown Sugar (optional)
Method
Add all the ingredients to a saucepan and bring to a simmer on a low heat
Allow to slowly heat through before straining into a mug or mulled wine glass
Garnish with a clementine slice cinnamon stick and star anise if desired (remember this will strengthen the spice levels)
Or for a more ambitious dinner, Roast Lamb with Red Wine, Blackcurrants and Italian Beans
Ingredients
2kg leg of lamb
4 cloves garlic, sliced
8 sprigs fresh thyme
5tbsp olive oil
5tbsp Pixley Berries Blackcurrant Cordial
Half a bottle of red wine
Zest of 1 lemon
1L lamb stock
3 red onions (cut into 6 wedges)
3tbsp balsamic vinegar
For the beans
2 sprigs rosemary (roughly chopped)
100g sunblush tomatoes
3 x 400g cannellini beans
Handful of flatleaf parsley (roughly chopped)
Method
Using a sharp knife, cut small slashes all over the lamb then push a slice of garlic into each Put half the thyme 3tbsp olive oil Pixley Berries Blackcurrant
Cordial wine lemon zest and a good grinding of black pepper into a large freezer bag Add the lamb, tie the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least four hours, preferably overnight
Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas7 Put the rest of the thyme into the bottom of a roasting tin then lift the lamb out of the marinade and sit on top of the thyme Roast for 20mins then toss onions into the pan drizzle with a little oil, then turn the oven down to 190C fan/170c/gas5 Roast for 15 mins/450g for medium
Meanwhile strain the marinade into a pan, add most of the stock and boil until reduced by two thirds (this should take around 20 mins) Set aside in a jug Gravy can be made ahead or the day before if necessary, as long as the meat has marinated for at least four hours
Once the lamb is ready take out and rest on a board wrapped in a tent of foil to keep warm Set the onions aside in a bowl Put the roasting tin on to a low heat and pour in the balsamic vinegar with a splash more stock and scrape all the meaty bits from the bottom Tip this mixture into the jug with the gravy
For the beans add 2tbsp olive oil to the roasting tin
Add the rosemary and tomatoes, and fry for one minute until the rosemary smells aromatic Tip in the beans, the red onions and the final splash of stock then warm through Season Then stir in the parsley just before serving Serve on a platter, topped with lamb
www.pixleyberries.co.uk
