GWD Convenience was crowned best retail wholesaler at Confex’s Green Wholesaler Awards, with Dunsters Farm named best foodservice wholesaler.
The buying group’s annual event coincided with its trade show, with more than 500 members and suppliers coming together in Cirencester.
“This year’s event was great,” explained Ben Cooper, senior national account manager for wholesale at Swizzels. “I always find the Confex show great for business, with plenty of new contacts and deals made.”
The purchasing manager of group member Spicers, Nic Recardo, echoed these thoughts: “This event is always a brilliant way to make new supplier contacts and is a fantastic place to learn and share new ideas.”
GWD director Dave Storey explained that the show provided a great opportunity to share thoughts with like-minded wholesalers and suppliers. “It allows us to discuss the industry challenges that we all face in the current UK marketplace.
“It was also great to get some time with the Confex Chairman at the event and in the evening, Martin Williams. This is the second time we have had a chance to meet with him in as many months and I feel we can really benefit from his broad industry knowledge and experience,” he added.
With a combined group turnover of £2.84bn and a projected growth of 40% from 2013 to 2022, Confex is primed for future evolution, according to business development director Tom Gittins: “Our three-year growth plan includes opportunities stemming from Brexit, NPD with suppliers as well as membership diversification.”
He also announced the buying group’s continued intention to recruit new members. “We already have five new members for this year and are continuing to look for more, with Phoenix Catering Solutions, Stuart Foods and T&J Fine Foods recently joining.”
