Founded by Alexia Robinson in 2002, the annual event is a national programme that involves all foodservice and hospitality businesses – no matter the size – and calls on them to buy and promote British food.
With this year set to be the biggest yet, Brakes held its second British Food Fortnight launch last week (22 August), where Olivier Blanc – British Food Fortnight ambassador and son of renowned chef Raymond Blanc – explained the value of provenance.
Drawing on his French upbringing, Blanc noted that: “For some reason, British people do not shout about the amazing produce they grow - unlike France and other EU countries,” adding: “You need to!”
And with new researching revealing that consumers are eating out less and less but spending more per visit, it has never been more important for operators to listen to their demands – of which some 56% actively look for British food on menus.
To lend a helping hand and help fulfil Brakes’ ‘very important agenda’ of supporting local business, it sells over 370 ‘distinct’ and ‘special’ local produce, from meat and game to fish, shellfish, chees and sweet treats.
Not only can such ingredients boost sales – it is no secret that customers are prepared to pay more for premiumisation – but they are better for the environment (less air miles, greenhouse gases etc.) and also save on transportation costs.
Used in hundreds of catering operations, workplace dining rooms, restaurants and cafes across the UK, Brakes boasts a vast collection of British products, which are completely traceable and sustainably sourced.
Showcasing the benefits of ‘buying British’, Gary McClean, Brakes Scotland ambassador and 2016 MasterChef winner, demonstrated with ingredients such as Scottish salmon, mussels and langoustines; potatoes; blue cheese; PGI rib eye; courgettes, tomatoes and salad.
- Salmon, mussel and langoustine potato stew
- Rib eye steak with blue cheese salad
Offering tips and advice for all operators – including British recipes plus many more from chef Mark Sargeant – Brakes also has a number of products on promotion to encourage businesses to get involved this British Food Fortnight.
For more information, visit: https://www.brake.co.uk/inspiration/british-food-fortnight.