Harlech Foodservice has won a £3.5 million-a-year deal to supply US-style BBQ restaurant chain Hickory’s Smokehouse with a selection of beef, pork and chicken.
Mark Lawton of Harlech Foodservice (right) with Rob Bacon (centre) and John Tamila of Hickory’s.
The announcement follows news that Harlech Foodservice, based in Criccieth, in Gwynedd, and Chester, had created 16 new jobs after achieving record sales over the summer.
Hickory’s has 11 outlets. The first was set up in Chester 10 years ago and the newest opened in Shrewsbury last year.
Commenting on the new deal with Harlech, Hickory’s executive chef director Rob Bacon said: “We have been looking for a supplier to help us grow the business and Harlech Foodservice have been on our radar for a while. They fitted the bill because we need the right quality of meat and Harlech can supply that.
“They can also take orders late at night and it will be here at our restaurant, whether it’s in Southport, Worcester or Rhos on Sea, at 10am the next morning with the right product at the right quality.”
Mark Lawton, commercial director of Harlech Foodservice, a Fairway Foodservice member, commented: “Hickory’s are a fantastic brand and they’ve done a lot of work to get their offer just right and it’s paying off for them.
“Part of that is making sure they have the right meat when and where they need it, and we have the capacity to guarantee that. We’ve got the size and scale to deliver six days a week and cater for late ordering using our online ordering and app.
“They have struck a chord with their customers and that’s shown by their success, but they don’t compromise on quality and their approach to doing what they do is very thorough and professional.”
