Sustainable Food Procurement Initative - Somerset apples... and more... for Somerset schools 2004
Case Study: Somerset apples . . . and more . . . for Somerset schools 2004
Region: South West
Organisation: Growing to Win
Description:
This year, again using National Apple Day as the theme, Mary Hughes has worked with caterers, schools, wholesalers, orchards and the local Health Improvement Service to get Somerset apples into all Somerset's school catering services.
The variety of catering provision in Somerset - there are 7 different catering companies, 12 individual schools (who manage their own catering services) and 10 wholesale or purchasing arrangements involved - makes co ordination of the supply chains complex. However this has been successfully achieved with West Bradley Orchard, near Glastonbury, providing apples across the County.
The success of apple promotion was seen as an opportunity to:
- Negotiate the continuation of supply for the remainder of the season.
- Get more Somerset produce into the supply chain.
Firm commitments have now been made by a Somerset wholesaler and a Somerset catering service supplier, not only to continue to use Somerset apples but also to provide a long term opportunity for Somerset growers to supply vegetables whilst crops are in season. These arrangements have been negotiated between the caterer and the wholesaler in compliance with the existing contractual arrangements and will not result in variations to specifications or prices as tendered. More regularly supplied Somerset produce will be "branded" on delivery notes so that schools and caterers within establishments will be aware of the source of their raw ingredients.
Benefits
- Guaranteed freshness of produce and seasonal supply.
- A working example of how a supply chain can be effectively managed to provide opportunities for local suppliers.
- Encouragement for other local suppliers who will see opportunities to work with local wholesalers and caterers.
- A better understanding of how caterers and their food suppliers work together.
- The project contributes to the longer-term sustainability of local business and communities.
Lessons learned during implementation
- If promoting local food and drink is to become part of a sustainable procurement strategy it must become an integral part of supply chain management- one-offs are not good enough!
- Schools and caterers require good promotional and information material which is essential if opportunities are to be fully exploited, for example, Five a Day schemes and Healthier Tuck Shops using local produce.
- The electronic age has allowed schools to be kept directly informed of initiatives leading to increased opportunities for influencing procurement and supply decisions.
Future developments
Future plans include
- Brokering negotiations to enable producers of Somerset yoghurt and cheeses to enter the supply chain where they provide best value.
- Getting more catering service contractors on board.
Further information
Mary Hughes
Growing to Win
Email: mary.hughes@ukonline.co.uk
Page published: 23 November 2004