McQuade steps into the role of president following her election at the federation’s Annual General Meeting on 13th November. She brings 25 years of experience in the frozen food sector, having attended her first BFFF event in 1999, and has made ‘significant contributions’ to the industry since.
In 2007 McQuade founded The UK Foodhall Ltd, which provides healthy and quality-assured British meat, fish and poultry products to the school meal sector.
Driven by a commitment to sourcing locally and supporting British farmers, McQuade has earned national recognition by achieving 17 business awards and 32 product awards. Today her business portfolio includes three additional British food manufacturing companies, employing around 260 people.
Commenting on the news, McQuade said: “I have always supported the BFFF for their championing of frozen food and the much-needed voice they give to the frozen-food category.
“Today, more than ever, we need the BFFF to speak loudly on our behalf about the sustainable benefits of frozen food, its role in reducing food waste, and the quality it brings without added preservatives. I’m also a strong advocate for the BFFF’s young leaders’ forum – encouraging the next generation is fundamental to our industry’s future.”
A BFFF director for six years, McQuade now takes on the presidency with a passion for supporting and representing the frozen food industry, particularly as it continues to address the growing demand for sustainable, waste-reducing, and preservative-free options.
Rupert Ashby, chief executive of the BFFF, added: “I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome Karen to her new role and am delighted that she has been appointed as president. Her entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to British food, and commitment to the frozen sector make her an inspiring leader for our industry.
“I would also like to express my gratitude on behalf of the federation to outgoing president Ian Stone. His invaluable service and steady leadership over the past four years have been instrumental in steering the BFFF through an exciting and challenging period which included changes following Brexit and lockdown. We are grateful for his dedication.”