Independent wholesaler MJ Baker Foodservice has completed record-breaking sales at its annual foodservice trade show for the third consecutive year.
The Devon-based firm concluded deals worth more than £650,000 at the event at Newton Abbot Racecourse.
More than 800 foodservice professionals, made up of leading independent food manufacturers from across Devon, Cornwall, Bristol and Somerset, and some of the UK’s leading suppliers, attended the show, which broke the £600,000 sales mark set in 2016.
The event kicked off with the visit of Exeter Chiefs’ rugby stars Thomas Waldrom and Don Armand. The players were on hand to help MJ Baker as part of its 18th birthday celebrations.
The trade show featured 150 exhibitors, who displayed their products in addition to offering deals to attendees on the day.
MJ Baker sales director Giles Thomas, said: “I think the key to success was in the support provided by our suppliers. There was a fantastic mix of suppliers taking part – from big household names to fabulous locally-based companies.”
He added: “We have a fantastic range of food producers and manufacturers across the West Country, and it’s wonderful to showcase their products at our event. We’re looking to further its success next year by increasing our number of exhibitors to 200.”
Neil Folland, director at Tarka Springs, said: “The trade show was a brilliant event allowing lots of local businesses in the industry to get together. There was a really positive atmosphere throughout the day and we’re looking forward to the forthcoming season.”
