Sales at Harlech Foodservice, a food wholesaler based in Cricieth, have experienced a remarkable increase, reaching £30 million over a six-month period. This figure marks a nearly 20 percent surge, highlighting the company’s rapid expansion and growing prominence in the UK market.
Established in 1972, Harlech Foodservice has expanded significantly over the past five years, establishing depots in key locations including Chester, Carmarthen, Aberbargoed, and Telford. The firm was recognized as the UK Food Wholesaler of the Year in April, a title that underscores its status as a major player in the industry.
The company’s growth has been propelled by new depots in South Wales and Shropshire, which have stimulated fresh business opportunities across North Wales, the North West, and the West Midlands. Notably, sales in South Wales and the West Midlands have surged by an impressive 68 percent since the award ceremony, with an addition of 117 new customers in the same period.
In its traditional market of North Wales, Harlech Foodservice has also seen positive results. Since April, the firm has added 125 new customers and achieved an 8 percent increase in sales, reflecting its strong regional presence.
The company has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the wake of the pandemic. Initially employing 120 staff at its Cricieth and Chester locations, Harlech Foodservice has expanded its workforce to nearly 300 employees within four years. This growth has included the opening of three new sites, bolstering its operational capacity.
Managing Director Mark Lawton, who joined the company in 2016, expressed pride in the team’s achievements and the trajectory of the business. He noted, “I am very proud to be part of the team that has been involved in the expansion, and our latest half-yearly results show a clear upward trajectory in Harlech’s fortunes.”
Lawton emphasized the necessity of diversification for the company. “We needed to expand to become a truly year-round business instead of relying solely on the highly seasonal tourism and hospitality industry,” he explained. Harlech Foodservice has successfully branched into the public sector, particularly in education and healthcare, supplying all six local education authorities in North Wales and hospitals across Wales.
This strategic shift not only mitigates risks associated with seasonal fluctuations but also positions Harlech Foodservice as a vital supplier in essential sectors. As the company continues to grow, its focus on sustainability and community engagement remains an integral part of its mission.
With its impressive sales figures and strategic expansions, Harlech Foodservice is poised to maintain its momentum, further solidifying its role in the UK food wholesaling landscape.
