Fairway Foodservice, with 18 members and a combined turnover of £626 million, has joined the Federation of Wholesale Distributors.

It is the third foodservice amalgam (the others are Country Range Group and Caterforce) to enrol with the FWD in the last two years, reflecting the increasing focus on catering in the organisation’s work.

Fairway chief executive Chris Binge said: “Through the FWD, wholesalers and distributors collaborate on the industry’s direction, taking a common approach to the issues that affect us all, such as legislation, the use of non-commercial data and government lobbying.

“Where it prevents duplication of effort and enables us to share systems and standards, working together across an industry makes obvious sense and is the most powerful and cost-effective way to achieve progress.”

FWD chief executive James Bielby said: “With economic and political challenges ahead, it’s important we speak to Government with the broadest possible consensus, so I am delighted that we are able to add Fairway and its members to our collective voice.

“We will also gain from the experience and expertise Chris and his team bring, particularly their data and technology innovations, which can benefit the entire wholesale sector.”

FWD (01323) 724952