AiP managing director David Weller explained more about the partnership: “It just felt right. We’ve been using Creed butchery for the last two years and with so many food scares hitting the headlines recently, we felt that we needed a partnership with a company we could trust. When Creed knocked on our door, it seemed obvious to explore if we could work together. We were delighted that Creed shares the same set of values as AiP – with an emphasis on customer service, value and, of course, the all-important factor of trust.
“We were incredibly impressed that Creed buy locally and have full traceability for their products. They can also provide organic, Farm assured and Red Tractor meat and MSC fish.”
Founded in 1998, AiP now has over 800 staff working across 160 contracts with an annual turnover of £14m. AiP have held the Bronze and Gold levels of the prestigious Soil Association’s Food for Life Catering Mark since December 2010 across 69 contracts of its 150-strong portfolio. Their commitment to sustainable local sourcing, organic, and environmentally conscious ingredients was another plus point when looking towards the new partnership with Creed.
Both companies have ambitious growth plans. AiP have grown significantly over the past 15 years, with their goal being to double in size within the next three years. Creed has similar business growth goals with ambitions to grow its £50 million plus company to £100 million by 2017.
Chris Creed, managing director, Creed Foodservice added: “This partnership is a great match, not just in terms of product supply but also in terms of ethos and we’re delighted that our values have been recognised in the awarding of this contract. We’re looking forward to developing business together over the coming months and years.”