New chairman for Branston
26 February 2010
Guy McCracken, a former M&S managing director and the man who played a leading role in the turnaround of The Co-operative’s food business, is to join Branston as chairman.
At its annual grower technical conference on 24th February Branston announced that Mr McCracken will take up the helm next month, following on from outgoing chairman Chris Howard.
With a series of executive posts across the retail sector spanning four decades, Mr McCracken (61) was chief executive of Food Retail for The Co-operative Group from 2005 to 2008 during which he led a transformation of the food business.
Before joining the The Co-operative Group, Mr McCracken held a seven-year chairmanship at Duchy Originals Ltd during which the Duchy Originals brand underwent rapid growth and development.
Mr McCracken had a long career with Marks and Spencer, working with the company from 1975 to 1990 and holding several high profile roles. He became a plc board director at M&S in 1990 and roles included director of the food division from 1993 to 1998, where he oversaw a turnover of around £3 billion. He was M&S joint managing director from 1994 to 2000.
The appointment of Mr McCracken is a big coup for Branston, which also has sites in Scotland and Somerset. Mr McCracken said: “I am delighted to be joining Branston which is widely respected for its leadership in the industry. Under Chris Howard's chairmanship, the business has made great progress and I look forward to working with MD Graeme Beattie and his team in the exciting times that lie ahead.”
As the UK’s leading supplier of potatoes, Branston’s turnover has grown from less than £5 million in 1988 to more than £110 million and it is now Tesco’s biggest fresh produce supplier.
Managing director Graeme Beattie said: “We are delighted that Guy is coming to join Branston. We know that his experience will take Branston into a further important period of development. He has fantastic experience in the fresh food industry which will add a real retail focus to our business.
“Now that Branston has become a leading retail supplier, our company has a change of emphasis and focus and Guy will be able to offer his huge knowledge of the food sector.”
Outgoing chairman Chris Howard, 71, has been with the company since its inception in the sixties. He became chairman in 1988 and led the company through a period of massive change and growth - being involved in the acquisition of the Tesco account in 1990. He today steps down as chairman but will stay with the company as a major shareholder.
“Chris has done a fantastic job as chairman of Branston, and was in right at the beginning. We offer him our utmost thanks for all his hard work over the years and know that he will continue to contribute to the success of the company.”
Mr McCracken was appointed a Governor of Nuffield Health in January 2010 and has been a member of the Defra Council of Food Policy Advisors since December 2008. In the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2004, he was made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO) for services to Charity.
Director appointment reaffirms Branston's environmental commitment
19 November 2009
Branston has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental best practice by promoting Vidyanath Gururajan (Vee) to the role of Projects Director and awarding him a place on the company's Executive Board.
Vee, 30, joined Branston in 2005 as a Development Engineer before becoming Group Head of Projects and Development, with responsibility for leading the company through the process of achieving the Carbon Trust Standard and the building of the company's new £3.5m Prepared Foods Factory.
Most recently, Vee was instrumental in securing a £568,000 grant from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) to enable Branston to build a combined heat and power plant which will use anaerobic digestion to turn waste potatoes into energy, reducing the company's impact on the environment and reliance on fossil fuels.
As well as continuing to lead Branston's large capital projects and continuous improvement initiatives, Vee's new role also sees him shaping and delivering the company's environmental strategy.
"Branston is proud of the lead it has taken in driving environmental improvements in recent years including receiving ISO 14001 accreditation at all sites and being awarded the Carbon Trust Standard. We recognise the significant contribution that Vee has made to these achievements and we're delighted to welcome him onto the Executive Board," said Graeme Beattie, Managing Director. "It is clear that there are still massive challenges ahead of us and the carbon reduction and climate change agenda will become central to the success of any business. This appointment demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that Branston continues to lead the way towards a sustainable future for the potato industry."
Commenting on the promotion Vee added: "I am delighted to be joining the Executive Board. It shows that Branston is committed to building an environmentally-sustainable business and I am very much looking forward to developing the strategy that the business has put in place. Protecting the environment and reducing carbon emissions are two of the biggest issues faced by businesses today and at Branston we're doing everything we can to minimise our impact and maximise our efficiencies through environmental best practice. The actions we have taken to achieve the Carbon Trust Standard and the initiatives we are taking to retain it are a clear indication of this."
Last year Branston became the first business in the food and agriculture sector to receive the Carbon Trust Standard. This was in recognition of its environmental initiatives, which resulted in a reduction in the company's carbon intensity over a three year period, despite considerable business growth. At the time, Branston was one of just 26 companies to be awarded the standard and it has since been joined by over 150 other companies from a wide range of industry sectors.
Branston is the only potato supplier to hold both the Carbon Trust Standard and ISO 14001 accreditation and its commitment to environmental best practice has been evident for some time. The company appointed an Environmental and Utilities manager two years ago and each of its three sites has its own comprehensive Environmental Management System.
Vee's involvement was key to making Branston's new Prepared Foods factory one of the most energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly in the UK. He investigated and evaluated a wide range of environmental technologies, selecting those that offered economies in terms of resource use and carbon emissions as well as long-term cost savings.
The 2,500m2 facility, which opened in July 2009 boasts a range of features to minimise environmental impacts. Water for the factory comes from its own borehole and the heating system is fuelled by a biomass boiler which will utilise the 20 tonnes of waste potato boxes and pallets that Branston currently disposes of each year. Branston's aim is for to the factory to become completely independent of all external utilities within a year.
"We've set a very high standard in terms of our environmental record," says Vee. "My role at Branston as Projects Director is to ensure we raise the bar even further over the coming years. For us it's about balancing the long term needs of the business with environmental concerns and developing a virtuous circle where low carbon equals low cost. It's a big challenge, but with Board level commitment and business-wide environmental management systems in place we have a very good start."
Adrian's prepared for Branston role
09 October 2009
Adrian joins Branston as General Manager of the prepared foods division, with responsibility for developing its customer base, market share and product range. He will be responsible for ensuring the efficient running of the new £3.5m prepared foods factory as well as overseeing the division’s marketing and commercial activity.
“Branston is at a really exciting stage and I am looking forward to growing the prepared foods division,” said Adrian. “It’s a really big challenge but one that I am looking forward to. I have gained strong commercial and operational experience in my career and look forward to using these as General Manager of the new facility. Everything is in place: the factory is one of the most advanced food production sites in the UK, the team here are exceptional and the product range brings together great tasting convenient food with excellent growth opportunities for our customers.”
Graeme Beattie, Managing Director, added: “We’re very pleased that Adrian has joined our team. His experience in the food industry and prepared produce will complement the skills of our current team and we’re really looking forward to seeing Branston prepared foods develop with him at the helm.”
Adrian has over 20 years experience within agri-business and the food sector, having most recently enjoyed seven years with fruit specialists Utopia, where he developed key accounts with Tesco and Marks & Spencer. Before working for Utopia, Adrian was a Director of Lingarden Flowers which he joined after developing his career with Dalgety in the south of England.
The Branston prepared foods division has grown rapidly since it was established in 2005. Last year the company became the category leader for Tesco prepared potato products and earlier this year it opened its own purpose-built high-tech, high spec factory at its Lincolnshire site. The factory, which was officially opened by celebrity chef James Martin in July, is one of the greenest food production sites in the UK and has led to 40 new people joining the Branston team.
£600,000 software investment freshens up the Branston Production System
08 October 2009
Branston is to introduce LINKFresh® 2 at its sites in Lincolnshire, Somerset and Scotland to provide even greater working efficiencies.
Developed by Anglia Business Solutions, the LINKFresh® 2 package will be configured to suit Branston’s lean manufacturing processes – the Branston Production System. It will provide a user-friendly interface to enable the company to collect, analyse and report on data from across all departments and sites in greater detail than ever before.
The Branston LINKFresh® 2 solution will provide broad coverage to all of the major functions of the business. This includes agronomy, forecasting, EDI orders, planning, scheduling, intake, quality control, production, pick and despatch, label checking, invoicing and core financials. The system integrates specialist modules for capturing information within the factories using rugged touch screen terminals. It also uses state of the art mobile applications for activities such as managing intake, despatch and quality control.
“Five years ago we introduced LINKFresh® to handle the finance and order processing aspects of our business and it had a significant and beneficial impact,” says Nick Turnbull, Technical Director at Branston. “Since then our turnover has increased considerably, the number of people in our team has doubled and the production process has become increasingly sophisticated. Technology has also moved at an incredible rate and the launch of LINKFresh® 2 takes advantage of developments that were not available when the first system was installed.
“LINKFresh® 2 will be installed at our Lincoln site first and a team of three will spend several months with us making sure the programme fits our processes perfectly. Once installed we will have an extremely quick and incredibly detailed way of capturing, analysing and processing data from all areas of our business, which will give us a much richer understanding of our operation. This information will inform and expedite business-critical decisions. We anticipate that once installed we will benefit from further efficiency, reduced waste, greater agility, improved financial and operational reporting and customer service. This will provide Branston with an information platform designed to support future growth.”
The installation of the new software has meant one Branston employee, Charlie Flack, has taken on a new role.
Charlie has been given the role of IT Projects Assistant, with responsibility for integrating the new software into Branston’s processes and procedures as smoothly as possible. As such Charlie will liaise with both Anglia’s implementation team and the Branston team.
“Charlie joined us in 2000 as a Production Operative and has worked his way up the ranks. In his most recent role of Process Improvement Engineer he demonstrated a real understanding and appreciation of our production processes. He also has a strong aptitude for information technology, which means he’s ideally suited for this new challenge,” said Nick.
LINKFresh® 2 replaces the original LINKFresh® system which was designed, built and installed by Anglia five years ago.
“We are very pleased that Branston has chosen to implement the LINKFresh® 2 product across its expanded operations. Branston’s vision and long-term investments have made them one of the UK’s leading suppliers of potatoes. Microsoft’s significant investment in the Dynamics NAV platform has enabled the continued development of the LINKFresh® suite to set new standards for the industry. Taking advantage of the leading edge technology within LINKFresh® 2 will enable the company to harness real time operational and financial information as a powerful aid to efficiency. The resulting solution will assist them in fully realising their impressive commercial potential in a rapidly consolidating sector”, said David Hurley, Managing Director.
Branston returns to Peru
05 October 2009
Almost a year to the day that Branston made a £9,000 donation to the Peruvian Potato Park, the man who spearheaded the gesture returned to the Andes to see what had been achieved in preserving some of the world’s rarest varieties.
2008 was specified by the United Nations as the International Year of the Potato and Branston supported it wholeheartedly by helping fund the development of special facilities to help safeguard varieties on the verge of extinction.
Over several decades, the effects of climate change, war and the outbreak of aggressive viruses severely impacted on the Andean communities’ ability to grow potatoes. With 2008 being such a special year for the potato and the fact that the vegetable originates from Peru, Branston’s Field Director, Dr David Nelson felt compelled to act.
He and his colleagues at Branston decided to support the communities of the Potato Park high in the Andes. The company’s donation would allow screen-houses to be constructed, in which cuttings of rare but healthy potatoes could be taken and then the process of growing new, healthy crops could begin.
Last month David was invited back to the Potato Park, so that he could see the new facilities and officially open them.
“It was an amazing experience and very humbling,” explains David. “So much has happened since this time last year. Using local labour and locally sourced materials they’ve been able to construct the laboratory-type conditions needed to nurture the virus-free plantlets that are provided by the International Potato Centre. Each of the villages in the Potato Park now has its own screen-house where they can take cuttings and grow on the plantlets which will eventually create clean plants that can be distributed throughout the communities. It is great to think that Branston has been able to play a part in safeguarding some of the world’s oldest types of potato and prevented these ravaged varieties from becoming extinct.
“However, the real work is being undertaken by the scientists at the International Potato Centre, who are receiving and cleaning tubers and then propagating them in peat blocks until they’re able to transfer them to pots. It’s a painstaking process but once complete, the screen-houses that Branston has funded provide the perfect conditions for growing and multiplying the clean varieties.”
One of the highlights of David’s return to Peru was being guest of honour at the opening ceremony. David took part in a local custom - offering coca leaves to the crowd, followed by a traditional blessing, in which Pachamama (mother earth) was thanked.
“It’s fantastic to see the way that the communities are working together and are being supported by the International Potato Centre and the Andes organisation. These people have been growing potatoes for thousands of years, working in harmony with nature in the harsh conditions of the Andes. It has become increasingly difficult recently and has been exacerbated by climate change, so it is vital that we lend our support to help them preserve the genetic diversity of their native varieties,” continues David.
With the screen-houses erected and work to propagate the endangered potato varieties well under way, attention has turned to training local potato farmers. Advisers from the International Potato Centre are working with growers to minimise the chances of damaging viruses developing again.
“The Andean communities are facing a number of issues. Climate change is having a major impact on growing conditions. As the environment becomes warmer, snow cover on local mountain peaks has declined and has now almost disappeared. This has implications on water supply from snow melt which previously fed rivers during the dry season,” says David. “In addition, the climatic zone to which traditional potato varieties are adapted has risen from an elevation of 3,600–4,100m to 3,800-4,300m. This means less good land is available and it is more difficult to work. At lower elevations, pests and diseases can significantly reduce crop output so new, resistant varieties are required to enable potato production in this zone.
“Having said this, with our donation and the new screen-houses plus the work of the International Potato Centre, we believe that harvests should grow by around a third this year, so things are certainly looking up.”
Branston commits to £1.4m environmental investment
07 September 2009
Branston Ltd has confirmed that plans to build an anaerobic digestion plant that will turn waste potatoes into electricity are to go ahead, with construction work starting next month.
The anaerobic digestion plant is part of a £1.4 million investment in green technologies at its Lincolnshire site, which will also include major upgrades to its water management system.
The investment will save Branston over 40% on electricity and 60% on water at the site, as well as taking one HGV load of waste off the road each day.
A £568,000 grant from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), which is funded by Defra and the European Union and delivered by the East Midlands Development Agency (emda) has just been awarded to make the development of this new plant possible.
When up and running, Branston’s anaerobic digestion plant will produce 300kW of electricity. The green electricity will be complemented by the introduction of a new water recycling plant, which will recycle some 60% of the water used to wash potatoes. Branston’s fresh potato facility and its brand new £3.5 million prepared food factory will both benefit from the new infrastructure.
The investment is the latest in several projects undertaken as part of Branston’s environmental strategy, which has led the company to become the first UK food producer to receive the Carbon Trust Standard and ISO 14001 accreditation.
“At Branston, we’re committed to working in harmony with the environment,” says Mark Willcox, Development Director for Branston. “This exciting development is a continuation of that strategy and will help us by reducing our utility costs and help the environment by reducing our use of fossil fuels.
“We will be using outgrade potatoes, which are unfit for consumption, to produce a significant amount of electricity and in doing so become one of the first food producers in the UK to harness such innovative and environmentally friendly technology. As well as being incredibly efficient, the anaerobic digestion plant is also safe, quiet and odourless. The combined heat and power plant will be complemented by the water recycling plant which will considerably reduce our mains water consumption and ensure we maximise efficiencies throughout our two factories on site.”
Andrew Morgan, emda’s Skills and Communities Director, added “We are pleased to support this ambitious and innovative project, which is embracing new technology and implementing environmental best practice It’s a strong example of what RDPE is all about – supporting land based businesses to use alternative natural resources to produce energy and conserve water whilst significantly reducing their impact on the environment. We hope the Branston project will inspire more businesses to invest in greener strategies and technologies for the future.”
While new to Branston, the technology behind the anaerobic digestion plant is well established. Waste is fed into a digester, where a reaction with friendly bacteria in the system takes place, producing a mix of gases including methane.
The methane gas rises to the top of the tank and is fed into the combined heat and power generator where it is burned, with the energy created turning an alternator which generates 300 kW of electricity.
Branston has also worked with the Environment Agency to upgrade its water treatment plant to a water recycling plant.
Branston doubles up at Potatoes in Practice
13 August 2009
Branston is taking a double-sized plot at this year’s Potatoes in Practice event to showcase its exclusive potato varieties. With the growth of its Seed team and expansion into the processing sector, the UK’s leading supplier of potatoes has broadened its variety portfolio considerably this year. Members of the Branston Seed and Agronomy teams will be on hand for information and advice on exclusive and traditional potato varieties, as well as Branston’s range of environmentally friendly biocontrols.
“Potatoes in Practice provides an ideal opportunity for us to show how we’ve grown this year, said David Nelson, Branston Field Director. “Our Seed team has more than doubled in size and we have exclusive marketing rights on an excellent range of varieties. “There has been a lot of interest recently in our biofumigants, our slug control - Nemaslug® Xtra and our PCN trap crop - Foil-sis, which is being developed to combat Potato Cyst Nematode and Root-Knot Nematode. Growers are increasingly keen to find natural alternatives to control pests and diseases, so we’re continuing to develop our range of biocontrols.”
In addition to its own plot, Branston has teamed up with WRAP to show the results of a compost trial at the site. The trial plot was divided into four sections with different proportions of quality compost and inorganic fertiliser applied to each. Jim Aitken, Senior Field Manager at Branston’s Scotland site has also worked with WRAP and SAC on a larger scale trial of the quality compost. “At field-scale we found that quality and yield of the crop grown with compost was at least as good as that with standard inorganic fertiliser and it could save at least £65 per hectare,” said Mr Aitken. “The main benefits though, are likely to be seen in the longer term. Repeated use of compost should result in higher levels of nutrients and organic matter along with improved soil structure and moisture retention.”
From Branston’s partnership with Germicopa, varieties at this year’s event will include the crisper Sassy, the gourmet salad variety Juliette and the distinctively coloured Blue Belle. Branston varieties from other breeding houses include Bounty and Rubesse from Cygnet PB, Saphire and Piccolo Star from Van Rijn, Safari from Stet and Lanorma from Den Hartigh. Two new Phureja cross varieties from Branston’s partnership with the Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI) will also be on display: Inca Bella and the as-yet unnamed 00 H44 B3.
Potatoes in Practice, held on Thursday 13 August, at SCRI’s Balruddery Farm, Invergowrie is the UK’s premier field event for growers, advisors and industry representatives.
Branston Summer Field Walks
07 August 2009
Branston used this year’s Summer Field Walks to introduce growers to the company’s new varieties, biocontrols, desiccation techniques and the latest developments in GPS. This week Branston entertained and educated some 45 members of its Lincoln Producer Group at E.M. Howard Limited, Nocton Rise.
Steve Crane, Group Manager for Branston Seed, conducted a tour of the field trials, introducing growers to Sassy and Daisy, two Germicopa varieties which are already gaining acceptance in the processing sector. Juliette, which is a popular, high yielding salad variety and Blue Belle, an attractive, purple splashed variety aimed at the pre-pack sector were also on display. Branston’s other mainstream baker varieties on display included Saphire, Bounty, Safari, and Lanorma, along with Rubesse, a new and attractive red-skinned variety which is ideal as an alternative to Desiree.
Branston also showcased its range of biocontrols, including the trap crop Foil-sis, which is a very effective biological control method for combating Potato Cyst Nematode and Root-Knot Nematode. The company’s hot mustard mixes: CureGro and FumiGro, which are used for natural fumigation of the soil prior to planting were presented alongside another biological product; Fence, (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens), which can promote plant growth by improving disease resistance, nutrient uptake and vigour in a range of crops, not just potatoes.
Belchim Crop Protection attended, taking growers through extensive trial plots showing various methods of desiccation. The plots consisted of Reglone (diquat), Spotlight (carfentrazone-ethyl) and flailing, in combination with one another. Discussions took place over the various options. Martin Stothard, Senior Field Manager at Branston said: “This is very topical, given the time of year, as many growers are about to start their desiccation programmes. It is clear to see that Spotlight is very effective as a stem desiccant and eliminates risk of regrowth whether the crop has been flailed or pre-treated with Reglone”.
The latest, high-tech GPS-equipped tractor from John Deere attracted a great deal of interest from members of Branston’s Producer Group. The improvements in work-rate and accuracy made possible by this technology were explained across a range of cultivation methods and crop spraying.
“Our Summer Field Walks are an excellent opportunity to find out about some of the latest technical developments, not just at Branston but also from the likes of John Deere and Belchim Crop Protection. We have an exciting portfolio of new varieties which offer significant benefits. Likewise the greater use of tractor GPS controls will improve the efficiency of potato operations and improve crop yields, quality and the accuracy of spray application,” said Martin.
The Lincoln meeting is the second of Branston’s field walks to be staged this summer. Last month, 26 farmers gathered at E.W. Button & Son’s farm in Tregawn, near Michaelstow for the South West Producer Group event. As well as learning about Branston’s latest developments, the growers also found out about diversification, with Joe Button outlining how and why his farm had ventured into strawberry and blueberry growing over the summer months.
One grower, Philip Prior of F.G. Prior & Son, who attended the South West event said: “It was a very interesting but a very wet day. It was good to meet up with everyone and I found the day really useful. It’s good that Branston takes the time to update us on new varieties and pest controls.”
Branston employees harvest their Smile
07 August 2009
This week Branston employees have been harvesting the crops of Smile potatoes that they planted back in March. Branston staff, along with family and friends, purchased Smile growing kits on Red Nose Day and raised over £2,000 for Comic Relief.
Technical Director, Nick Turnbull, came up with the idea of growing the bright red Smile variety: “It seemed like an ideal way to capture the fun theme of Red Nose Day and we thought it would help our employees appreciate what’s involved in growing potatoes, albeit on a very small scale.”
Staff have been nurturing their container-grown spuds throughout the summer in the hope of winning the competition for the biggest crop or the individual Best Smile. There was intense rivalry, with a range of different composts and techniques being tried.
In Lincoln the winner of the highest yield was Steve Bryan, Environmental and Utilities Manager, with a huge crop weighing 2.66kg. The prize for the Best Smile was awarded to Shannon Good, the daughter of Carol Good who works on the factory night shift as a Machine Operative.
At the South West site the winner of the highest yield was Kye Davies from the Maintenance Team, with a whopping load of 2.98kg, while Mareck Zaborski from the QA Team won the Best Smile category.
Branston prepares for the future
21 July 2009
Branston officially opened its £3.5 million high-tech, high-care, environmentally-friendly Prepared Factory today.
Over 100 guests were joined by TV chef James Martin at the celebration, which saw the company formally embark on its latest venture: building its prepared potato and vegetables business alongside its established and successful fresh potato operation.
Branston Chairman Chris Howard, Managing Director Graeme Beattie and James marked the occasion by adding the final sections to an innovative wooden art installation, which will be displayed in the new factory’s reception area.
Branston is already the category leader for Tesco prepared potato products and has a number of other customers in the convenience sector, both in the UK and overseas. The new Prepared Factory will enable the business to increase production of its existing ranges and also give the flexibility to provide bespoke solutions for retailers and food service customers alike.
The new 2,500m2 factory is one of the most advanced food production facilities in the country. Over 300,000 packs per week are currently produced on four production lines, though Branston could double this output immediately if required.
Thirty people have joined Branston as a result of building the new factory and the number of new recruits is expected to rise as production increases. The building itself could also grow in size, as it has been designed to allow an extension to be added with minimal disruption.
As well as being extremely flexible and lean in terms of manufacturing, Branston’s Prepared Factory is also one of the most environmentally sensitive production facilities in the UK. The factory boasts a range of features all minimising carbon emissions. Water for the factory comes from its own bore hole and the heating system is fuelled by a waste wood burner which will create heat from the 20 tonnes of waste potato boxes and pallets that Branston currently disposes of each year. Branston’s aim is for to the factory to become completely independent of all external utilities within a year.
Speaking at the event Mr Howard said: “Since the very beginning Branston has focused on providing the highest quality produce and service to our customers. Combined with innovation, a desire to continually improve on what we do and by working with the best growers in the country, we’ve developed into a highly successful business. Today sees the next stage in our development. Branston Prepared and this new factory will allow us to develop further in a growing market, that of high quality, delicious, convenient prepared potato and vegetable products. Everyone at Branston is incredibly excited and optimistic about the future of Branston Prepared and we’re looking forward to working with both our existing and new customers to help them grow their businesses too.”
Mr Beattie was keen to stress the environmental aspects of the factory: “Branston is an environmentally-focused business. We rely on the environment for our raw materials: potatoes and other vegetables too. It is fitting that we’ve placed environmental best practice at the heart of everything we do. All of our production sites are already ISO 14001 accredited; we were among the first companies to employ a dedicated Environmental Manager; and we were delighted to become the first company in the food and agriculture sector to receive the Carbon Trust Standard. This new factory has been designed to be sustainable for the long term – from both a financial and environmental perspective.”
TV chef James Martin got to grips with some of Branston’s Prepared products first hand, cooking up a selection of quick, easy and great tasting dishes at the event. “People are busier than ever but they’re also increasingly interested in good, healthy food. Using products like these produced by Branston means they can get the best of both worlds. The food tastes great, is quick and easy to cook and frees up time to prepare the rest of the meal. It’s also great to see a business like Branston continuing to flourish amongst so much doom and gloom. I wish them continued success as they grow the business and continue with their excellent environmental initiatives”.
Branston Prepared is currently producing a selection of product ranges, with the emphasis on making potatoes and other vegetables quick and easy for consumers to cook at home. It has the capabilities to develop new bespoke solutions for retailers and foodservice customers as it aims to build its share of the £720 million prepared vegetables market.
£275,000 investment in the South West
29 June 2009
Branston is investing £275,000 in its Somerset site as it continues to enjoy increased demand. The company, which employs 150 at its Seavington St Michael factory, is introducing hi-tech weighing and packing machinery to further increase the efficiency of its salad potato line.
Currently the production line can handle 60 bags per minute but following the installation of a new high speed multi-head weigher, the factory is now capable of handling up to 110 bags per minute. The £60,000 Ishida weigher will be complemented by a £180,000 CPS Tray Packer and a £35,000 Garvens checkweigher, which will be delivered and installed in November.General Manager at the site, Ian Wait said: “We’re enjoying a really successful period of growth at the moment and this investment in new machinery will help improve our efficiencies. Salad potatoes are packed all year round but demand increases significantly at this time of year. At present we’re only able to pack 60 bags per minute, but once this new machinery is installed and operational, we’ll be capable of handling up to 110 bags per minute.”Branston acquired its South West business from Stemwest Produce in 1997 and has since invested over £6.5 million in developing the factory by installing the latest machinery, modernising staff facilities and innovating across all departments.Branston supports BP 2009
22 June 2009
Branston is sponsoring this year's premier potato industry event – British Potato 2009 (BP 2009). The company has been headline sponsor of the Potato Council’s bi-annual potato event since 2000.
“At Branston we are committed to the British potato industry and once again, we are delighted to sponsor BP 2009, its showcase event,” says Managing Director, Graeme Beattie. “The event brings together all the key stakeholders in our industry and gives us a wonderful opportunity to meet many of our growers, suppliers and customers involved with us at our sites in Lincolnshire, Scotland and the South West.
“Branston has huge confidence in British potatoes and we continue to invest heavily in all sectors of the industry. This year, in addition to talking to our fresh market suppliers, we will be looking forward to forging new relationships with suppliers and customers for our rapidly expanding seed business and our processing potato division.”
Helen Priestley, Chief Executive of the Potato Council, is delighted that Branston is sponsoring the event again this year: “In these difficult economic times many companies are cutting back on their marketing and sponsorship but we’re delighted that Branston continues to thrive and grow its business and we’re extremely grateful that the company has decided to continue its association this event. We’re really looking forward to November and staging, what we hope will be, the best potato event of the year.”
At the last British Potato event, in 2007, the Branston stand was a hub of activity with growers entering a free draw to win a brand new Mini Cooper. This year the company is expecting even higher visitor numbers, as it celebrates another successful year of growth.
BP 2009, organised by the Potato Council and sponsored by Branston, takes place at the Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate, on 25 and 26 November 2009.
Scottish Rural Development Programme Support
22 June 2009
A £600,000 investment is to receive significant financial support from the Scottish Government, through the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP).
Branston has been awarded a £117,000 Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation Grant to further modernise its Abernethy site as part of the £60 million SRDP funding which aims to support Scotland’s food industry.
The company plans to further increase operating efficiencies and reduce wastage at its Scottish site by introducing vision grading, potato washing and drying with new holding bins.
Once introduced, the modernised production line will enable potatoes to be graded to a more flexible range of specifications, which can be programmed in to the automated system. Currently potatoes are graded manually, with damaged or significantly blemished potatoes being removed by hand. Automating the grading process will ensure greater speed, accuracy and consistency in the grading, increasing total saleable stock.
“Receiving the support of the Scottish Government through the Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation Grant is fantastic news,” says Eric Ritchie, General Manager at Branston. “We’re a growing business and one that is incredibly focused on working in harmony with the environment, so being able to minimise waste and improve efficiency are key objectives. Introducing this new machinery will require a significant investment and we’re extremely grateful that the SRDP has decided to support us. I’d also like thank SAOS (the Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society) for its assistance in our application.”
Commenting on the award, Rural Affairs and Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "We remain determined to do all we can to support our food and drink industry – including companies such as Branston – in the current climate. We are keen to recognise and reward those who reflect aspects of our vision for securing the freshest, finest future for Scotland’s food and drink.
“This grant is part of a wider investment we are making in the industry as we move towards our target of growing the value of the industry to £10 billion by 2017. We will also shortly unveil the next stages in our National Food and Drink Policy which aims to put even more Scottish food on consumers' plates while delivering major health and environmental benefits.”
The Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation Grant Scheme provides financial support to organisations seeking to ensure the long-term future and sustainability of their operation. As the first company in the food and agriculture sector to achieve the Carbon Trust Standard and with all its sites ISO 14001 accredited, environmental best practice is a key priority for Branston.
The introduction of the vision grader in August will not affect staffing levels, with employees working on the grading section being redeployed to other areas of the operation when the new machinery becomes operational in September.
The Food Processing, Marketing and Co-Operation Grant Scheme was introduced in March 2008. The scheme, which is part of Scotland's Rural Development Programme, will run until 2013 with grants being awarded up to four times a year.
The scheme is competitive and includes three elements: Capital Grants, providing assistance towards the construction of buildings and purchase of plant and equipment; Non-capital Grants to help fund projects such as market research and consultancy, product development and consumer education material; and Co-operation Grants which provide support to aid co-operation, collaboration and development within the food chain.
Branston continues Lincolnshire investment
08 June 2009
Branston has announced it is to invest a further £500,000 in its Lincolnshire facility just three months after revealing plans for a new £3.5 million factory on the same site. The company is to grow its latest 'state of art cold store’ by a further 2,200 tonnes. The storage facility, which can already hold 9,000 tonnes of potatoes – the equivalent to one potato serving for everyone in the UK – is being extended. Once building work is completed in the autumn, the new store will be able to over 11,000 tonnes or 77 million potatoes.
Dr David Nelson, Branston’s Field Director is overseeing the project and says that several of its features are unique in the British potato sector: “There isn’t another cold store like this in the country,” he says. “We have designed the most environmentally friendly units in the UK. We believe that environmental best practice is critical to our success – on top of generous insulation and glycol refrigeration to reduce use of refrigerants, the two new stores both adopt the ‘passive up-flow’ system which was trialled as part of the original store development. In addition, energy use should be further reduced by incorporating a simple ambient air chilling facility which utilises existing fan capacity with only the addition of automatically controlled louvres. This means we can take advantage of ambient air within a range of -3 to +2oC to aid cooling.
Branston has embarked on the extension as it seeks to cater for increased demand and also minimise food miles by having as many potatoes as possible stored at its Lincoln site. As well as going directly to retailers, the potatoes stored in Branston’s new cold store will also be used in the firm’s new Prepared factory.
Construction work is being undertaken by Trent Valley. The unusual ‘passive up flow’ cooling system was specified by IMA Cooling Systems and relies on quenching natural convection currents and build up of temperatures with over 75% less fan energy than most traditional long term cooling systems. Less fan power put in, means less heat to take out, creating a double saving as energy usage is concerned.
Charitable donation
26 May 2009
The Special Care Baby Unit at Taunton’s Musgrove Park hospital, which looks after premature babies, has received a £1,000 donation from Branston. The company made the donation after two of its team experienced life on the ward first hand.
Pei and Guangbin Li’s son, Jason Lee, was born ten weeks premature and spent two months being cared for by the ward. With Jason safely home, the couple proposed that the ward was considered for a donation from Branston’s charity fund.
“When Jason was born we were really surprised and worried as he only weighed two lb three oz, but the doctors and nurses on the ward were amazing and looked after him and us incredibly well,” said Pei. “We were so grateful for the loving care they provided that when we returned home, I put the award forward to our charity panel, which decided to donate £1,000 so that the hospital could buy some new equipment.”
Ian Wait, General Manager of Branston’s Seavington St Michael site, added: “As a company we are really keen to give something back to the community. We set up our fund for charities to enable our team to propose good causes, which we could help. The Special Care Baby Unit provides such an important service and when we heard Pei and Guangbin’s story we were only too pleased to help.”
The ward, which looks after 300 babies each year, will use the donation to purchase new cardiac monitors that record the vital signs of the babies receiving intensive care.
“Babies that are born early sometimes need specialised, round the clock care and we work really hard to make sure that both the babies and their parents are looked after,” says Susan Spooner, manager of the Special Care Baby Unit. 'We're really grateful to Branston for this donation, it is simply fantastic. We will put the money towards ensuring that we have the very latest equipment and technology on the ward.”
Potatoes at Cereals...
26 May 2009
Branston is to become the first potato supplier to exhibit at Cereals, an event which has historically focused on the arable side of farming.
Branston will use Cereals 2009 to showcase its range of environmentally friendly biocontrols as well as introducing visitors to a number of its exclusive potato varieties.
“We are delighted to be exhibiting at Cereals this year,” says Dr David Nelson, Branston Field Director. “I think this is a fantastic opportunity for us to show people how much we’re growing, particularly with the development of our seed business and our recent expansion into the processing market. There is a great deal of cross over between potatoes and cereals, with many of our suppliers working in both sectors. It’s great news that Cereals is now open to a broader range of exhibitors and we’re looking forward to meeting new growers and catching up with some old friends.”
Branston will be showcasing a small selection of its exclusive varieties on the plot. From the partnership with Germicopa, varieties include the gourmet salad Juliette and the crisper Sassy. New varieties from other breeding companies include the white pre-pack/bakers Saphire and Lanorma, which offer excellent resistance to most skin finish diseases.
But it’s not just about the potatoes. Branston invests heavily in R & D to find innovative products to help growers in the battle against pests and diseases. The Branston plot will feature Curegro and Fumigro: hot mustard mixes that can be used for natural fumigation of the soil prior to planting. It will also be used to trial a number of brassica and radish mixes with biofumigant potential.
Branston’s trap crop, Foil-sis, will also be on show, with experts on hand to detail progress in developing its efficacy against both Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN) and Root-Knot Nematode (RKN).
Inside the Branston marquee visitors will discover an intriguing exhibition of some of the potato grower’s most hated pests and diseases and have the opportunity to see biological slug control in action. Nemaslug® Xtra has been specially developed to target slugs below ground, utilising naturally occurring microscopic nematodes which actively seek out slugs in the soil. On locating a slug, they enter through natural body openings and infect their host. They rapidly multiply inside the dying slug and as the food source dwindles, spread back into the soil to look for fresh hosts.
Cereals is the leading technical event for the UK arable industry, attracting 400 leading suppliers, over 29,000 farmers and experts to its 64ha of stands and live demonstrations. It takes place on 10th and 11th June at Vine Farm, Wendy, near Royston.
Branston can be found on Stand 940.
Branston employees get on their bikes for charity
23 April 2009
The Butterfly Hospice Trust Charity bike ride starts at 09:00 on Saturday 25th April. The Branston team will cycle, with around 100 other cyclists and the Mayor of Boston, along the newly completed Water Rail Way all the way from Beech House in Lincoln to Boston, then back again.
Energetic cyclists, Pete Blaylock, Martin Stothard, Donna Benton, Jim Lee, James Rogerson, Dan Metheringham and George Cooper, hope to raise as much as possible in sponsorship for the Butterfly Hospice Trust. The charity’s aim is to raise money for a purpose-built palliative care facility on their site to the rear of Pilgrim hospital so the team will be doing all they can to help.
Branston helps out at school allotment
23 March 2009
Volunteers from Branston put their gardening and maintenance skills to good use last Friday helping Potterhanworth Church of England Primary School get their allotment ready for the spring.
The school doesn’t have a garden so Head Teacher Janet Reeder was delighted when they were offered a nearby allotment by a local farmer last year. With the expertise of local gardener Tina Sardeson and support from a number of parents and local businesses the allotment is being transformed from a plot in a field to an outdoor learning facility. And with the school’s gardening club due to start up again soon some extra resource was needed to get everything ready for the children.
Instead of spending the day in the office, factory or potato field, ten volunteers from Branston worked alongside Tina on a range of tasks. The gardening team created a bog garden and wildlife pond as well as digging, edging and weeding, while the maintenance team were fixing up fencing, maintaining the shed and shelter, sorting out guttering and rain barrels, as well as erecting a new greenhouse that has been donated by Branston Moor Nursery.
The Branston gardening team was led by Jackie Baker: “As one of the biggest local employers, it is really important for us to give something back to the local community. We have over 250 people working at our site in Branston, so we were keen to volunteer some of our skills and manpower for the project.”
Jim Lee, team leader for the maintenance team, said: “Volunteering is a great opportunity for us to leave our day-to-day jobs behind, work with different people and utilise some of our other skills. It’s also great to get involved in a worthwhile project which will make a difference to local children.”
Tina Sardeson runs the school’s gardening club throughout the spring and summer and is a dedicated community gardener. Tina is also a finalist for the ‘People’s Gardener’ award. The final will be held on the Alan Titchmarsh Show on Monday 23rd March.
IFE 09
12 March 2009
Branston is once again exhibiting at the International Food Exhibition.
Branston, exhibiting on Stand N1112 in the General Food and Drink section, is showcasing an enviable range of fresh potato and prepared vegetable food solutions for retailers and food service companies. The company is using IFE 09 to highlight its expertise in developing innovative solutions for its customers or supplying high quality own label products for them.
The company’s success in the sourcing, packing and delivery of fresh potatoes over the last 40 years has seen Branston record enviable growth. However, Branston’s success is not just based on its capabilities in the fresh sector, since 2005 the company has developed the prepared side of its business considerably.
“Our prepared product range has grown rapidly, because we are continually looking to develop inspiring, high quality and convenience products to help our customers,” says Mark Willcox, Development Director at Branston. “We have the capabilities to work with retailers of any size on a wide range of products. We can create something bespoke to their needs, whether it is a single product or an entire range or category. We can look after everything from recipe creation through to packaging and fixture design as well as category management and delivery. We’re looking forward to meeting people at IFE to discuss how we can help them.”
Branston’s capabilities will be on display on the stand with the company showcasing its food to GO!, Real Potato Company, Simply Spuds and Dig in brands alongside retailer own labels.
“We’re really looking forward to IFE and having the opportunity to talk to retailers and food service companies of all sizes about their needs,” concludes Mark.
Grow Your Own Smile for Comic Relief
05 March 2009
This Red Nose Day Branston is hoping to raise over £1,000 for Comic Relief, but there won’t be any Smiles until at least August.
Workers at Branston are supporting Comic Relief by entering a competition to see who can grow the best crop. And in keeping with this year’s theme of ‘doing something funny for money’, they’re all growing Smile potatoes.
“Being bright red in colour, Smile sounds right and looks right for Comic Relief,” says Branston Technical Director Nick Turnbull, who came up with the fundraising idea. “We support the Potato Council’s Grow Your Own Potatoes initiative by donating extra seed potatoes and planting containers to local schools. Last year we helped over 1,000 Lincolnshire school children to plant seed potatoes and learn how they grow. We saw how much they enjoyed it, so we’re hoping that our staff and their families and friends can do the same. We’re tying it in with our Comic Relief fundraising this year and Branston is offering a £100 prize for the highest yield, so we’re expecting some fierce competition, and a very big Smile in August when the potatoes are harvested.”
Smile, which is a main crop potato, is naturally red skinned and has distinctive smile-shaped markings, making it ideal for Comic Relief. The Smile 'growing kits' will be available to staff on Red Nose Day, which takes place on Friday 13 March.
In support of Comic Relief, registered charity 326568 (England/Wales); SC039730 (Scotland).
Growers' Technical Meeting
02 March 2009
Growers attending Branston Ltd’s third annual Technical Meeting were told that changes to the EU Directive (91/414) governing pesticide use could have been a lot worse, but the industry still needs to plan ahead and embrace integrated pest and farm management.
Addressing an audience of over 50 growers at the EPIC Centre in Lincoln, David Payne, Senior Registration Manager for Syngenta Crop Protection UK said that whilst there was cause for optimism, the changes to legislation will still have a significant impact in the UK. “We initially thought that if a pesticide triggered one criteria, it would be banned,” explained Mr Payne. “However, the revision 91/414 sees pesticides banned if they trigger two out of three criteria. At one point it looked like we would lose about 85% of the 267 agricultural pesticides on the EU approved list, but this will not be the case.
“I believe that changes under the new regulation will actually be beneficial to the UK agricultural industry. It will encourage new zonal authorisation and mutual recognition, parallel trade rules to be clarified, clearer timelines, and additional data protection for minor users.
“The Sustainable Use Directive is also a good thing for growers, as it mandates good practice at user level, and helps to reduce risk. It encourages improvements in terms of training, inspection, storage and use, which can only be beneficial in the long term,” adds Mr Payne.
Mr Payne went on to praise the work undertaken by the NFU, saying that it had helped make the situation a lot better.
Chairing the meeting, Dr Andy Barker, R&D Manager at Branston, echoed Mr Payne’s sentiments but also urged growers to become more proactive in terms of adopting a forward-thinking approach to pest and disease control in light of the new regulations. “All of us should start implementing and exploring alternative pest and disease control given the introduction of the new EU regulation. As no one knows what the future holds, we need to start planning further ahead than we have previously been used to. Reactive management simply isn’t sustainable,” said Dr. Barker.
“Integrated Pest Management is the future. It is more complicated that current farm management, as it requires more planning, monitoring, knowledge and understanding, but it has numerous long-term benefits, including creating more robust plants and better soil conditions. It also ticks a lot of environmental boxes,” continued Dr. Barker.
As well as the EU legislation and advice on Integrated Pest Management, attendees also heard best practice guidance on crop storage, nutrition and the impact of climate change.
In total, the Technical Meeting comprised eight presentations, with six external speakers invited to join Dr Barker and Dr Nelson. As well as Branston, delegates also heard from Darryl Shailes from Hutchinsons; Richard Miles of Biofresh; Dr. Mark Allison of CUF; Richard Meredith of Bayer CropScience; and Dr. David Kenyon from SASA.
The day of presentations, which all contributed to Continuous Professional Development towards BASIS qualification, were well received by the growers in the audience. Peter Harriman, Farm Manager for AE Godfrey and Son said: “It was an excellent day and think it was great that Branston arranged for so many experts to come and talk to us. The presentations certainly give us hope that the changes made by Brussels may be better than we previously thought.”
Martin Stothard, Senior Field Manager at Branston organised the event and was pleased with how the day went, “This was the third time we’ve staged a Technical Meeting and this one was the best. We attracted more growers than last year and the calibre of speakers was fantastic. I think everyone who came will have left learning something and feeling much better about the future.”
Vegetable Supplier of the Year
19 December 2008
Branston is celebrating being named Vegetable Supplier of the Year 2008 in the first ever Tesco Produce Supplier Awards.
The company received the accolade at a prestigious gala dinner last month at the Royal Lancaster Hotel, London.
Jo Parish, Retail Director for Branston, collected the award from Tesco Produce Category Director, Alex Dower, in front of 630 other suppliers and food industry guests.
The Tesco Supplier Award event was established to recognise the contribution of suppliers and growers. The awards celebrate the success of those exceptional teams who together have contributed to the growth and development of Tesco’s business during 2008.
Branston used the opportunity to pass on its thanks to its own suppliers, inviting 12 potato growers to join them at the London event.
“We’re delighted to have won this award as it is a reflection of a great deal of hard work, innovation and dedication by our team,” said Jo. “It was also great to be able to take some of our growers to London to join in the celebration. It’s a great Christmas present for the whole team and we’re looking forward to defending our title over the coming year.”
Branston has worked with Tesco since 1990 and has grown significantly over the last decade, employing over 500 people and turning over in excess of £100m per annum.
Branston environmental expert to address Water Footprint event
15 December 2008
Vidyanath Gururajan, Chair of the Environmental Forum at Branston Ltd, is to speak at a national conference on the importance of measuring corporate water footprints. He is among a number of industry experts and practitioners addressing delegates at the Water Footprint Summit at Olympia, London on 16th and 17th December.
Branston Ltd, the UK’s leading supplier of potatoes, is involved in a number of environmental initiatives to minimise use of non-renewable resources, reduce waste and develop long term sustainability.
Vidyanath (also known as Vee) has been heavily involved in the projects that contributed towards Branston’s recent achievement of the Carbon Trust Standard .
“Environmental best practice is important for all business, but especially so in the food industry,” says Vee. “It’s not just about securing a more stable environment for our future, but also reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Water is a key resource in our industry and we need to take steps now to manage it for the long term.”
Vee heads up capital expenditure projects across the company so he is well placed to join a panel of experts, fielding questions on the financial viability and organisation of large and small scale water conservation and reuse projects.
“Water conservation projects come in all shapes and sizes and what might be right for one business may not be right for another. For example a small scale project like introducing water efficient taps may have a payback of just one to two years. However a large scale project like investing in rainwater harvesting or other similar projects could have a payback of up to eight years. For Branston it’s about looking forward to a sustainable long term future for the business from an environmental perspective, rather than just focusing on short term business priorities,” added Vee.
Vee will share an insight into some of the projects Branston has been involved in, how these have contributed to the company’s achievement of the Carbon Trust Standard and how they have improved overall efficiency.
For more information about the Water Footprint Summit 2008 visit www.water-footprint.com.
Carbon Trust Standard
28 November 2008
The UK’s leading supplier of potatoes has become the first food producer in the country to receive the Carbon Trust Standard. Branston was awarded the accolade in recognition of its success in reducing its carbon emissions over the last three years. The company is one of just 26 organisations in the UK that is currently certified by the Carbon Trust Standard Company.
Already ISO 14001 accredited, Branston has invested in developing an Environmental Management System and introducing new environmentally sensitive equipment, manufacturing processes and systems across its business.
The Carbon Trust Standard was introduced in June 2008 in response to the demands of businesses and consumers seeking an environmental certification scheme that focused on actual results, not good intentions; an ongoing commitment not a judgement at a single point in time; and a requirement to continually reduce carbon emissions. To maintain the standard Branston will have to continue its efforts and reduce its carbon emissions every year. The company will be audited every two years to ensure it has met its targets.
“As a company that relies on the environment for its product we decided some five years ago, before environmental best practice was such a buzz word in business, to reduce our impact on the environment and lower our carbon emissions,” says Graeme Beattie, Managing Director at Branston. “Receiving ISO 14001 across all our sites for best practice in environmental management earlier this year was the end of phase one.
“Becoming the first food producer in the country to hold the Carbon Trust Standard is the beginning of the next phase in our environmental strategy, as we look to continue to reduce our carbon emissions by using less energy and embracing new technologies and processes wherever possible. Receiving the standard is a great honour for us and the whole team at Branston has worked incredibly hard to secure it. We will be working even harder to ensure we retain the standard when we are reassessed in two years time.”
As part of achieving the Carbon Trust Standard and ISO 14001 accreditation Branston devised and implemented an environmental policy across its all its sites. Measures such as building a state-of-the-art cold store, which uses less power than traditional cold stores, introducing high-speed doors in areas of the factory where heat loss is above average and upgrading water treatment facilities have all contributed to the reduction in carbon emissions.
“Branston is the first company in the food and agriculture sector to receive our standard,” says Harry Morrison, General Manager of the Carbon Trust Standard Company. “As such they have become a beacon for other food production companies. Branston’s innovation and foresight in recognising that reducing carbon emissions also reduces costs is to be celebrated. It demonstrates real action on climate change as well as commercial acumen. We hope that many other food producers follow Branston’s lead.”
As well as looking at its own operation, Branston has also worked with Tesco to measure the carbon footprint of potato production and to introduce clear carbon footprint labelling on the supermarket’s potato product packaging. A project to reduce the amount of packaging weight by 25% is currently underway. Branston is also working with three Universities to explore energy reduction opportunities in potato packing, refrigeration and transportation.
The Carbon Trust was set up by the Government in 2001 as an independent company. Its mission is to accelerate the move to a low carbon economy by working with organisations to reduce carbon emissions and develop commercial low carbon technologies. The Carbon Trust Standard was introduced to put an end to the practice of ‘greenwashing’ whereby the public mistrusts organisational claims of environmental best practice. The Standard has since been awarded to 26 organisations including B&Q, Trinity Mirror, the Crown Prosecution Service and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). A further 40 organisations are currently going through the assessment process.
New Prepared factory
14 November 2008
Branston has announced it is to build a new 2,500m2 factory to produce prepared potato products at its main site, one mile outside the village of Branston (image shows an artist's impression). Total investment in the project will amount to £3.5m and it will create a substantial number of new jobs. Construction of the new factory began last month, with Branston expecting the first of its extended range of prepared potato products to be moved to the new factory in Spring 2009.
Branston is confident that its new facility and a £500,000 investment in the most advanced production equipment available will enable the company to meet the increasing demands of its retail customers. The company, which is best known for supplying fresh potatoes, diversified into prepared and convenience potato-based products in 2005 and was awarded the role of category leader of prepared products to Tesco in September this year.
We are extremely pleased to have been appointed category leader for prepared potato products," said Graeme Breattie, Managing Director at Branston. "We're building a state-of-the-art production facility which will help us fulfil Tesco's needs and play a significant part in the future development of our business. We're looking forward to its completion and recruiting additional staff as we continue to grow the business."
As an ISO 14001 accredited company, Branston is committed to the highest possible environmental standards. As such, the company's new facility will include a range of low energy, high efficiency technologies. Sun tubes will bring natural light into staff amenity areas; heat recovered from chiller units will provide hot water for hand basins; insulation levels will be far higher than those required by building regulations; the water for certain areas will be heated from a wood fuelled boiler; and the factory will draw all of its water from a new borehole next to the building.
Branston's range of prepared products, which features items such as potato croquettes, crispy potato slices, easy steam baby new potatoes and potato wedges, is currently manufactured at a smaller site in Holbeach.
Composting trial
24 October 2008
UK potato farmers could be set to benefit from reduced carbon footprints and long-term improvements in soil structure should a trial of the use of commercial organic compost be successful.
Branston is working with NOFCO (The Natural Organic Fertiliser Company) to test the effects of compost on ware potato production. NOFCO is a sister company of TEG Enviromental. They convert organic waste, which would otherwise be sent to landfill or incinerated, into natural organic fertiliser via an in-vessel composting process.
David Wilkie is a major supplier of potatoes to Branston. His farm in Perthshire was selected as an ideal site for this commercial trial. David has used the compost on two and a half acres of potatoes. The resulting crop is being stored in his recently constructed £200,000 cold storage facility, built to meet Branston's increasing demand.
The trial is being led by Branston's Senior Field Manager in Scotland, Jim Aitken, and has been part-financed by WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme). "The use of natural fertilisers has obvious appeal," commented Jim. "But it is only recently that organic compost has become avalailable in the large volumes we need to use it viably on potato crops. This trial will see how compost performs against conventional inorganic fertiliser."
Solene Le Doze, Organics Project Officer at WRAP said: "WRAP is committed to reducing waste and encouraging recycling. Compost produced to the BSI PAS 100 specification is a great product for use in agriculture as a soil conditioner and as a supplement to fertiliser. By supporting these trials, we hope to quantify its technical and commercial benefits in potato production."
Mike Orr of NOFCO is confident that organic compost will become a viable alternative for commercial food producers: "With a wider range of nutrients and improved soil structure and water retention, we believe that the use of compost as part of the overall fertilising process can improve the quality and durability of the crop produced. We are extremely pleased that a company the size of Branston is willing to test the benefits of composting."
The results of the trial will be assessed by Dr Stuart Wale of the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC), who added: "The rising price of inorganic fertilisers, and the need to reduce carbon emissions, makes this an extremely important trial. If compost is going to be seen as a viable alternative to conventional fertiliser it has to be proven to perform on a farm scale."
Samples from the trial site were recently hand-lifted by SAC staff for full analysis at its Aberdeen base. Branston has also taken commercial scaled samples, for grading and assessing at its Abernethy factory in early November.
Jim Aitken, from Branston added: "Early indications from the trial are very encouraging and with many of our potato growers operating within a 30 miles radius of the composting plant, they could see significant financial savings by using compost, especially as inorganic fertiliser prices rocketed this year."
Branston proves its green credentials
30 September 2008
The company, which has a handling capacity in excess of 400,000 tonnes a year, secured the standard at its South West operation earlier this month, which means all three of its sites are operating to the ISO 14001 standard. Branston's Lincolnshire site was awarded ISO 14001 in January this year, with the Perth factory passing its audit in March 2003.
ISO 14001 is only awarded to companies that are able to demonstrate their commitment to reducing their impact on the environment wherever possible throughout all their activities. Branston's environmental management system covers all aspects of the business, from ethical sourcing, through to efficient packing and storage.
Branston's directors committed to achieving ISO 14001 some three years ago and have since conducted an in-depth audit across all sites, employed an Environmental Manager in Lincoln and trained key management teams in Somerset and Scotland. The company also devised and implemented an extensive environmental management system, which balances the financial needs of the business with the need to reduce the environmental impacts of its operations.
Nick Turnbull, Technical Director at Branston is delighted that all three sites have achieved the environmental standard. "As a business which relies on nature for its product, it is of paramount importance that we minimise our impact on the environment as much as possible. Our customers, Tesco for instance, and consumers are placing more and more importance on a company's environmental credentials when deciding whether or not to purchase from them. ISO 14001 shows that we integrate environmental management into all our processes and procedures and do everything we can to minimise our impact on the environment. The ISO 14001 audit is a rigorous exercise and every area of Branston's operation has been inspected. We've had to work incredibly hard to ensure we meet the demanding criteria but I'm delighted to say that as the environmental management system at our Seavington St Michael has been recognised, all three of our sites are now ISO 14001 accredited!"
ISO 14001 was first published in 1996 by the International Organisation for Standardisation and specifies the actual requirements for an environmental management system. It applies to those environmental aspects that the organisation has control over and on which it can be expected to have an influence.
Awards recognise long service at Branston South West
29 September 2008
Colleagues gathered at the site in Seavington St Michael to see General Manager Ian Wait present Shirley Swain and Sue Evans with their long service awards. Shirley, an Intake QA Controller, received a Rotary watch to commemorate 20 years of service, with a Cross Century pen being given to Sue, a Packhouse Machine Operator.
Speaking at the presentation, Ian Wait said: "I am delighted to present these awards, which recognise and celebrate the dedication of these two employees. Our people are our most important assets and Shirley and Sue reflect the high quality and dedication of the Branston workforce. It is essential that we have skilled and accomplished staff and I congratulate them both on their achievement."
Shirley has seen many changes to the factory since Branston acquired the factory from Stemwest Produce in 1997. "I've been working here since 1988 and since Branston took over I've seen many improvements which the staff really appreciate," she said. "It's a great place to work and I'm delighted to be recognised for my commitment."
On receiving her 10 years of service award, Sue said: "I'm thrilled to receive an award for my work at Branston. I really enjoy working with my colleagues, there's a real family feel to the place and I look forward to working with them for more years to come."
First two Hot Potatoes at Branston
25 September 2008
Branston launched Hot Potatoes - Hotter Prospects at the University of Lincoln's graduate fair to compete with other local businesses in attracting some of the brightest graduates around.
The first recruits on the Graduate Development Programme, Sridhar Mayuri and Karly Fox, joined Branston earlier this month. They will each undertake six placements, experiencing the company's main operational and support areas over the next two years. Positions on the Branston team await the pair if they successfully complete the programme, which involves developing key competencies, knowledge and skills, plus off-the-job training and study towards professional qualifications.
Sridhar (25) graduated from Visvesvaraya Technological University, Bangalore, India with a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) before taking an MSC in Advanced Engineering at Sheffield Hallam University, followed by an MBA in Industrial Management.
Karly (23) gained a BA (Hons) Business and Marketing degree from the University of Lincoln. She also has a range of work experience, as well as organisational skills from her involvement with Market Rasen Young Farmers Club.
Simon Telfer, Branston's HR and Logistics Director, is acting as a mentor to Karly and was instrumental in establishing Hot Potatoes - Hotter Prospects. "As the UK's leading supplier of potatoes we want to attract, develop and retain the bightest and most committed individuals. Hot Potatoes - Hotter Prospects allows us to do that and we're delighted to welcome Sridhar and Karly to the company. I am confident that our programme will help them develop their understanding of the commercial world and help us develop our business by bringing fresh ideas and new perspectives to the company."
Sridhar is being mentored by General Manager, Steve Robinson. With his technical background, Sridhar is delighted to have a role in which he can develop his skills and understanding of engineering in a busy production environment. "Having this opportunity is fantastic," he said. "I've studied a great deal and am keen to put my knowledge into practice. Branston is an excellent company and the people here are really supportive, but most of all they value my input and want to see my skills help the company continue its growth and success."
Branston creates new jobs for Abernethy
24 September 2008
The jobs have been created on new five-day shift at Branston, which will support the increasing volume of supply at the Abernethy factory. The new employees will take on a range of positions in the factory, including Forklift Drivers, Production Operatives and a Quality Assurance Manager.
"I am pleased to welcome our new members of staff to the team," said Eric Ritchie, General Manager at Abernethy. "Branston is an important employer in this part of Scotland and we depend upon our team, so we put a lot of time and effort into recruiting the right people for each job. The success of our business is largely down to the skills, hard work and commitment of all our people and I am sure that our new employees will be a valuable asset to Branston's growing workforce."
The fourteen new starters along with the eleven other people who joined as part of April's recruitment drive, bring the size of the Branston team in Scotland to 125. Branston is the number one supplier of potatoes to Tesco and the workforce is growing to meet increasing customer demand.
Branston has also invested heavily in the Abernethy site. The company completed a 12-month, £2 million investment and redevelopment of the factory last year, with redesigned production lines, new machinery, extended dispatch bays and improved staff facilities.
South West site gains ISO 14001
24 September 2008
Branston has received ISO 14001 accreditation at its site in Seavington St Michael, in recognition of the company's comprehensive and stringent Environmental Management System. The award of ISO 14001 follows nearly two years of preparation work by the company. To meet the standard, Branston has had to demonstrate that it monitors and limits its impact on the environment wherever possible.
Ian Wait, General Manager at Branston South West said: "As a business we're committed to working to the highest standards. About three years ago Branston's Directors committed to achieving ISO 14001. Since then we've looked at our entire operation, from the waste we produce through to our use of oil, gas and electricity. We now have a range of systems, processes and procedures in place to ensure that we are doing all we can to minimise our impact on the environment, reduce our energy consumption and maximise the reuse or recycling of waste materials.
"Being audited for ISO 14001 is a painstaking process and every area of the operation has been inspected. We've had to work incredibly hard to ensure we meet the demanding criteria but I am delighted to say we surpassed the standards required and are now ISO 14001 accredited! Everyone is becoming more aware of the need to manage their impact on the environment and ISO 14001 shows our customers and suppliers that we're a committed and responsible company operating to the highest standards. As a result of changing our working practices, we're helping the business to reduce its costs and become greener at the same time, so it's a win-win situation."
ISO 14001 was first published in 1996 by the International Organization for Standardization and specifies the actual requirements for an environmental management system. It aplies to those environmental aspects that the organisation has control over and on which it can be expected to have an influence.
Branston introduces Nemaslug for Brassicas
23 September 2008
Following impressive sales of Branston Nemaslug® and Nemaslug® Xtra, and encouraged by positive feedback from growers, Branston has extended its range of slug control products with the introduction of Nemaslug® for Brassicas. The extension of the Nemaslug® range was overseen by Dr Andy Barker, Research and Development Manager, who noticed that many of the farmers using Nemaslug® Xtra on potatoes also grow brassicas.
Nemaslug® Xtra is an established and effective alternative to chemical slug control in potatoes, which is particularly ideal close to harvest. Using our knowledge and experience to help brassica growers is a logical progression," explained Dr Barker. "We work very closely with Becker Underwood, the company that manufactures Nemaslug®, and have played a significant role in the development and management of the product. I am delighted that Branston can now offer brassica growers a natural way to control slugs."
Branston Nemaslug® for Brassicas is based on the slug parasitic nematode, Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita. Once in the soil, the nematodes actively seek out slugs. They kill them by entering through the slugs' natural body openings and releasing symbiotic bacteria. The nematodes, using the slugs as a food source, multiply. When a slug retreats underground to die the nematodes seek out more slugs.
In low to medium risk situations one pack of Nemaslug® for Brassicas will be sufficient to treat half a hectare, but where slug activity is elevated, higher rates and multiple applications may be necessary, depending on the season. Nemaslug® for Brassicas, which is effective for up to six weeks, can be applied with either a standard sprayer or drip tape to combat a range of slug species, including grey field and keeled slugs.
For further information about Nemaslug® for Brassicas email: nemaslug@branston.co.uk.
Awards recognise long service
12 September 2008
Colleagues gathered at Branston's Lincoln site to see General Manager Steve Robinson present Sandy Wright, Cliff Jackson, Matt Barker and Tom Bramwell with their long service awards. Sandy received a Rotary watch to commemorate 20 years of service, with Cross Century pens being given to Cliff, Matt and Tom.
Speaking at the presentation, Steve Robinson said: "I am delighted to present these awards which recognise and celebrate the dedication of these four employees. Our people are our most important assets and Sandy, Cliff, Matt and Tom reflect the high quality and dedication of the Branston workforce. It is essential that we have skilled and accomplished staff and I congratulate them all on their achievement."
On receiving her award, Production Operative Sandy said: "I've been working in the packhouse since 1988 and I'm thrilled my commitment has been recognised. I really enjoy working with my colleagues and look forward to working with them for more years to come."
Cliff Jackson is a Forklift Truck driver in the Intake area. "I've seen lots of improvements in machinery and technology over the last decade," he explained. "I'm actually due to retire in November, but I won't be winding down just yet as the factory is really busy."
Five year-old Lucy names new potato variety
12 August 2008
The competition, organised by Branston, was part of the Celebration of Food and Farmers held recently at the Eden Project. Children were invited to suggest a name for a new potato variety based on a traditional Peruvian species. The new potato is the result of several years of collaboration between Branston and the Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI). Previously known only as 00.H.14 A3, the potato will now, thanks to Lucy, be taken forward to National Listing with the proposed name of 'Inca Bella'.
Andrew Ormerod, Economic Botany Researcher at the Eden Project, gave Lucy a range of books from the Eden Project and Ian Wait, General Manager of Branston South West (pictured with Lucy) presented a £50 WH Smith voucher along with a specially-commissioned badge and certificate to remind Lucy of her special day.
With one of over 500 entries to propose a name, Lucy said: "I'm really excited about winning. I think the new potato is very pretty and I like the name Bella."
David Nelson, Branston's Field Director, commented: "We were delighted with the response to our competition and were amazed at the different names the children came up with. However, Lucy's suggestion struck a chord and we had no hesitation in announcing her as our winner.
We've been working with Mylnefield Research Services Ltd, the commercial area of SCRI, since 1999 on breeding and selection programmes to harness the best characteristics of the native Peruvian Solanum phureja species. This potato is the first of a number of varieties that we are taking foward to National Listing this year. Now that the first one has a proposed name, we hope to follow on and develop names that are suitable for the rest of our new varieties. We are planning to have our new range ready and available for consumers in a couple of years time."
The Solanum phureja species generally has a stronger flavour and a firmer texture than the cultivated potato species Solanum tuberosum. The new Inca Bella variety has a creamy-yellow flesh and distinctive pinky skin colouration. With it's excellent flavour and smooth texture, Inca Bella will be a multi-purpose type of potato, ideal for salads and roasting.
Branston introduces new product
08 August 2008
A new value herb and butter pack of potatoes from Branston is being introduced to Tesco shoppers. At just 50p a pack the mix of small main crop potatoes, mint, butter, sunflower oil and salt will cut the price for hard-hit consumers who have been unable to justify spending two or three times that for similar products.
Available in Tesco stores where there is a higher than average demographic of 'value' customers, the 335g packs are sufficient for 2 - 3 servings and contain only Tesco-approved varieties of potato, with a preference for King Edward, Marfona and Estima.
With the current rise in the cost of living and the results of market research showing a consumer demand for value, convenience and versatility in the prepared potato category, Branston and Tesco have brought together a pack that will grab the customers' attention. Not only is the price low, cooking the value herb and butter pack couldn't be easier; simply placed on a microwaveable plate, pierced and cooked on full power, the potatoes are ready to eat in just 8 minutes.
At Tesco's request, Branston has developed the value herb and butter pack in record time, just five weeks instead of the normal 12, having identified a recipe that would appeal to the supermarket's target market and conducted research to ensure delivery of a product that would meet demand.
Mark Willcox, Development Director at Branston said: "We believe this is the quickest turnaround from conception to store achieved for Tesco in this sector.
"Given the huge price rises in pasta and rice, this new pack proves what a versatile, tasty and inexpensive product the potato is. We are confident that its low cost and convenience will be a winner for price-sensitive consumers."
The Branston-produced value herb and butter pack of potatoes is available in selected Tesco stores from early August.
Development growth leads to promotion
01 August 2008
The restructure is a result of Branston's continued growth and increasing investment in innovation, which has also led to an expansion of the department. Vidyanath - known throughout the business as 'Vee' - will focus on innovative best practice across all areas of Branston's operations and be responsible for the co-ordination of operational capital projects, working alongside the company's general managers.
In keeping with Branston's ethos of reducing its carbon footprint year-on-year, Vee will chair the group environmental forum; ensuring the continued monitoring of carbon measurement resulting from Branston's activities, identifying carbon-producing hot-spots and developing and implementing carbon reduction plans.
Previously responsible for implementing improvements in the operation and supply chain, Vee was instrumental in delivering the carbon footprint labelling programme for Tesco. His new role will encompass ongoing management of Branston's Manufacturing Excellence Teams - an initiative introduced and implemented by Vee in his former position as Development Projects Manager - at Branston's three sites.
Vee joined Branston in August 2005 as a Development Engineer, from LG Phillips where he worked as a Technology Engineer. Educated in both Britain and India, Vee has a first-class degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland. Since joining Branston he has qualified as a Chartered Engineer with the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), becoming a Member as a result and, in his spare time, has gained qualification as a Six Sigma Black Belt.
Following his appointment, Vee commented: "I am looking forward to the new challenges of this role and furthering the work I undertook when Development Projects Manager. This is an exciting time for Branston and expanding the department will enable the company to focus on its growth and ongoing development while, at the same time meeting its environmental responsibilities."
To enable swift delivery on all NPD projects from conception to completion, Branston has also recently appointed a secondment Development Engineer and is looking to recruit a Development Co-ordinator.
Branston to showcase new developments at Potatoes in Practice
25 July 2008
Branston has chosen the Potatoes in Practice event to unveil two new potato varieties and two new alternative pest controls: Fumigro and Nemaslug Xtra. Branston will also have four of its exclusive varieties on show at the event: Lanorma, Saphire, Piccolo and Safari.
The two, currently unnamed, varieties are the product of a partnership with the Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI). Branston and the SCRI have been working together since 1999 on a range of crossing and selection programmes, which has seen six new varieties reaching National List trials recently. Two of these six will feature on the plot: 00.Z.302 A 8 and 99.H.56 B3.
As well as the varieties, Branston Field Director, David Nelson and the members of the Branston Seed team will be introducing visitors to Fumigro, a dual purpose cover crop and natural fumigant, and Nemaslug Xtra: Branston's highly effective biological slug control developed specifically for potatoes. Branston Foil-sis, a sustainable and highly effective alternative to chemical PCN control methods completes the company's showcase.
"This is a great opportunity for growers to learn more about our new varieties. Over ten years ago we committed to investing significantly in an ambitious research programme, so that we could develop the best possible varieties for growers, Tesco and consumers," explains Dr David Nelson. "Visitors to this year's Potatoes in Practice will see some of the results."
Dr Andy Barker, R&D Manager at Branston, has been instrumental in the development of the company's sustainable and environmentally aware pest controls. "As the leading supplier of fresh potatoes to Tesco, we are constantly looking for new ways in which to improve marketable yields and quality. Foil-sis, Nemaslug Xtra and Fumigro provide growers with natural alternatives to chemicals and could play a key role in working to Tesco Nature's Chioce guidelines."
Now in its second decade, Potatoes in Practice is widely considered to be the UK's most important field gathering. Organised by the SCRI, the Scottish Agricultural College and CSC Potato Care, the event on 7th August at Gourdie Farm, by Invergowie, Dundee is set to attract over 600 visitors.
The event is sponsored by the Potato Council, with Branston supporting the evening meal.
More than 10,000 visitors celebrate food and farming
14 July 2008
The three day event, celebrating 2008 as the Year of Food and Farming, was organised by the Cornwall Agri-Food Council and supported by Branston, as well as a number of other food and farming organisations. Despite the wet and windy weather the event was a great success, with hundreds of schoolchildren visiting on the Friday and substantially increased visitor numbers over the weekend.
Members of Branston's procurement, agronomy and marketing teams were joined by eight Cornish growers, who supply Tesco with some of Britain's earliest 'Earlies' and finest main crop potatoes, which are currently appearing in Tesco stores as part of the supermarket's campaign to promote local produce.
As well as educating visitors on the history of the potato and its origins in Peru, the Branston team used the Celebration of Food and Farmers to highlight the nutritious and versatile nature of the vegetable, the importance of potatoes to the local Cornish economy and the different varieties available.
One variety - currently unnamed - received a great deal of attention as Branston challenged visitors to propose a fitting name for the new potato. The anonymous spud, which has been developed from a traditional Peruvian potato species is currently referred to as Variety Number 00.H.14 A3. Over 500 suggested names were entered into the competition, and the Branston team hopes to announce the winner soon.
Hugh Donovan, Branston' s South West Procurement Manager, said: "We always enjoy talking to consumers about potatoes and this was a great way to educate them about how versatile and nutritious they are. It was also good to be able to tell people about the important role farming plays in the South West and how our growers produce their Cornish varieties."
One grower who participated in the event was Andrew White of S&W potatoes. "A lot of people take potatoes and other food sources for granted and don't know the hard work that goes into producing them. This celebration was the ideal opportunity for us to talk to consumers about their food and raise awareness of the importance of supporting local lines and eating fresh fuit and vegetables. We had a great deal of interest, especially from children, and hope it will encourage them to grow up eating great Cornish produce."
The Eden Project's Agency Liaison Officer, Paul Holmes, commented: "We are delighted with Branston's input into this venture, and in the larger than usual attendance for a Saturday. We will be looking to run the Celebration of Food and Farmers again, building on this year's success and making it even bigger and better."
New variety needs a name
23 June 2008
Children visiting the Celebration of Food and Farmers at the Eden Project on 20th , 21st and 22nd June are being invited to enter a competition to name a brand new potato variety - currently known only as Variety Number: 00.H.14 A3. It is believed that this is the first time members of the public, particularly children, have been asked to name a new potato.
There are thousands of potato varieties grown and harvested around the world, many of them named after places, such as the Pentland Javelin, or people, like the well known King Edward. In Peru, where the potato originated some 8,000 years ago, the varieties have descriptive names such as "Red mermaid", "Male guinea pig with scattered spots" and "Clod of earth the shape of a fingernail".
Branston's new variety is related to the traditional Peruvian potato species Solanum phureja, which has a stronger taste and a firmer texture than the cultivated potato species Solanum tuberosum. It has a creamy, yellow flesh and its skin has distinctive pink colouration.
It has taken several years of careful development and now Branston is inviting children to use their imaginations to come up with a name for this new potato. With its excellent flavour and smooth texture, 00.H.14 A3 is a multi-purpose type of potato, ideal for anything from salads to roasting.
David Nelson, Field Director at Branston said: "We are delighted to be involved with the Eden Project's Celebration of Food and Farmers and it seemed like an ideal opportunity to introduce our new variety to the public. There will be thousands of people there over the weekend and we're hoping to harness some of their creative energies. We're looking forward to reading the entries and seeing the children's suggestions for a name. It's a novel way for them to use their imagination and possibly see their idea in the shops in years to come."
Eden Project's Agency Liaison Officer, Paul Holmes added: "With our particular interest in world crops, we have been working closely with Branston and we're growing some samples of their new variety here at the Project. The competition is a great idea to get children thinking about food and farming and having some fun."
Entry forms will be available from the Branston display where visitors will also get the chance to find out more about potatoes in Tesco stores, as well as in Peru and Cornwall and to meet some of Branston's Cornish growers. Cornwall's climate creates ideal conditions for growing potatoes, both as an early and a main crop. Cornish Earlies are a vital part of Cornwall's rural economy and are the first of the British potato crops to herald the Spring each year.
Schools potato harvesting
23 June 2008
This week schoolchildren all around the country have been unearthing the crops they've been growing for the Potato Council's Grow Your Own Potatoes (GYOP) initiative. Earlier in the year Branston provided additional seed potatoes and Haxnicks Potato Patio Planters to schools near their Lincoln, South West and Scottish sites so that more children could get hands-on experience of growing potatoes. Branston's potato experts also visited a number of schools to help them with planting and to provide advice on how to grow a good crop.
On Monday Donna Benton, Storage and Field Services Manager at Branston, visited Scampton Church of England Primary School, Dunston St Peter's Church of England Primary School and Ermine Junior School in Lincoln to help them with their harvest. Donna said: "The children have really enjoyed growing their potatoes and they've learnt a lot about how food is produced. They've spent months looking after their potatoes and now they're really looking forward to cooking and eating them."
The aim of GYOP is to highlight the role of the potato as a nutritious element of a healthy diet and help children learn how their food is grown. Being actively involved in the growing process, from 'chitting' to watering and caring for their plants, right through to harvesting, has given the youngsters the opportunity to develop an added interest in potatoes and a better understanding of how this staple food is produced.
Branston flying high for Multiple Sclerosis
20 June 2008
The group, who all work for Branston, will have half a day's training before jumping from 10,000 feet. Gavin Anderson and his colleagues from the Abernethy site were "attracted by the challenge" of the jump following a local leaflet drop by the charity.
Gavin, Jim Aitken, Jim's daughter Harriet, Euan Alexander, Allan Lothian, Brendan Quin and Graeme Jack, will take off from, and hopefully land at, Strathallan airfield, a short distance from Abernethy. Between them they hope to raise over £3,000.
Only one of the group, Euan Alexander, has jumped before - on a holiday in New Zealand. He and Jim will be jumping solo while the rest will jump in tandem with instructors. Gavin said: "When Jim and I saw the leaflet we were immediately attracted by the opportunity to raise funds for a worthwhile charity. The Multiple Sclerosis Trust (MST) provides essential support for people with MS and we're keen to help them in their fundraising."
So far the brave volunteers have raised over £2,000, with more sponsorship expected. If anyone would like to support them and the MST in this venture, they should contact Gavin on 01738 850371 or visit: www.justgiving.com/branston.
Branston strengthens seed division
21 May 2008
Stephen Hole (right) joins Branston as Seed Business Manager, with Peter Cargill (left) being recruited as Seed Technologist. Both report to Branston Field Director David Nelson.
Branston Seed was rebranded earlier this year after Branston opted to sell its shares in Pseedco and develop its own in-house seed division. Both Stephen and Peter previously worked for Pseedco and are looking forward to playing an active role in developing Branston's seed business.
"Branston has an excellent reputation in the industry and it is a natural move for the company to develop its own, in-house, seed division. Branston has great plans to develop a seed business with an excellent reputation for product quality and overall service. The chance to play a part in developing such a business was simply too good to turn down, " says Stephen.
Stephen, who brings with him over 25 years of potato industry experience, is part of a three-strong team, which includes Peter Hewett (Branston Seed Manager) and new recruit Peter Cargill.
"Like Stephen, I am very excited about playing a part in the development of Branston Seed," adds Peter Cargill. "Branston is very ambitious and wants to establish a great seed business and this is something we're all committed to achieving. I've known Stephen and the Branston team for several years and I'm very much looking forward to working with them all in this new role."
David Nelson is delighted with the new appointments. "When we parted company with Pseedco and decided to develop our own offer in-house we wanted to attract the best possible people to help us realise our ambitions. By recruiting Stephen and Peter, and having Peter Hewett already in situ, we now have an excellent team in place and we're looking forward to advancing our plans for Branston Seed."
Stephen and Peter Cargill will be based at Branston's Scottish site in Abernethy, while Peter Hewett will continue to work from the company's Lincoln office.
Branston helps Guides earn their badges
13 May 2008
As part of the Guide programme, the 28th Lincoln Guide Unit decided to work together on the Cook badge. The girls had already learned about food hygiene and health and safety, but to complete their badge they needed to get hands-on experience of cooking a tasty and nutritious dish.
Stuart Garner, Development Chef at Branston, spends a lot of his time devising new ways to cook potatoes. He designed a tortilla recipe that the girls could personalise, using a variety of healthy ingredients (including potatoes!). As well as creating and cooking their own unique tortillas in the Branston development kitchen, the girls competed with each other to invent original product names and design their own packaging. After the cook-off and taste test, 'The Best and Spicy tortilla', created by Hazel and Gemma (pictured), was declared the winner.
Unit Leader Sue said: "Our facilities aren't that great for cookery. We baked some chocolate muffins a while ago, but the oven was temperamental, so they didn't turn out as well as we hoped. We really appreciate the support that Branston has given us. Stuart was great at showing the girls how to cook and they really enjoyed choosing the different ingredients to make their tortillas. The cookery session really brought out the girls' creative skills and they're looking forward to eating the results!"
Composting for the future
09 May 2008
Branston is working with NOFCO (The Natural Organic Fertiliser Company) to test the effects of organic compost on ware potato production. NOFCO is a sister company of TEG Environmental. They convert organic waste, which would otherwise be sent to landfill or incinerated, into natural organic fertiliser via an in-vessel composting process.
Potato farmer David Wilkie is a major supplier to Branston. His farm in Perthshire has been selected as an ideal site for this commercial trial. Mr Wilkie will use the compost, made of well-rotted organic material, on two and a half acres of potatoes. The resulting crop will be stored in his recently contructed £200,000 cold storage facility, built to meet Branston's increasing demand.
The trial is headed up by Branston's Senior Field Manager in Scotland, Jim Aitken. "The use of natural fertilisers has obvious appeal," comments Jim. "But it is only recently that organic compost has become available in the large volumes we need to use it viably on potato crops. This trial will see how naturally produced compost performs against conventional inorganic fertiliser."
Mike Orr of NOFCO is confident that organic compost will become a viable alternative for commercial food producers: "With a wider range of nutrients and improved soil structure and water retention, we believe that the use of compost as part of the overall fertilising process can improve the quality and durability of the crop produced. We are extremely pleased that a company the size of Branston is willing to test the benefits of composting."
The results of the trial will be judged by Dr Stuart Wale of the Scottish Agricultural College, who adds: "The rising price of fertiliser and the need to reduce carbon emissions, makes this an extremely important trial. If compost is going to be seen as a viable alternative to conventional fertiliser it has to be proven to perform on a farm scale."
Branston has always taken its environmental responsibilities seriously. The Scotland site has been accredited to internationally recognised ISO14001 standard for environmental management for the past five years. Surveillance audits are conducted every six months to ensure Branston maintains the highest environmental standards and follows industry best practice.
Sea to Sea for premature Lincolnshire babies
07 May 2008
James Rogerson, a Senior Buyer at Branston, will travel from Whitehaven in Cumbria to Tynemouth near Newcastle, using pedal power alone in an attempt to raise around £1,000 in sponsorship. He will take on the 140 mile C2C (Sea to Sea) route over four days, averaging around 35 miles a day.
James' father-in-law John Nickson, who will be supporting St Barnabas, and his friend Jez Brunyee, who will be donating to Cancer Research, will accompany him on the challenge. The three cyclists will be supported by their wives, which is particularly important to James, who says: "Not having ridden a bike for around ten years, I'm glad that we have a crack team of supporters on hand in case anything goes wrong. I began training in November and I can already see some of the pitfalls of long distance cycling, having fallen into a bog and battled the wind on a four hour bike ride between Heighington and Alford. My first child was born prematurely and I was really overwhelmed by the support we received from the Special Care Baby Unit. With my second child due in June I felt it was the right time to give something back to a charity that has helped make such a difference to me and my family."
Every year hundreds of premature babies are cared for by the Nocton Ward Special Care Baby Unit at Lincoln County Hospital. Funding for specialist equipment to help these babies is desperately needed and James is keen to help as much as he can.
Anyone wishing to sponsor James can do so by emailing jrogerson@branston.co.uk or sending a cheque made payable to ULH Charitable Fund, with Special Care Baby Unit written on the reverse, to James Rogerson, Branston Ltd, Mere Road, Branston, Lincoln LN4 1NJ.
Scottish potato grower completes Mini adventure
01 May 2008
Potato grower Jim Mason of St Andrews, who farms in Fife, won the car at last year's British Potato (BP07) event in Harrogate in a prize draw run by Branston Ltd.
Branston, who sponsored BP07, enticed growers into completing a short survey by including them in a prize draw to win the Mini Cooper.
Jim's name was the first out of the hat but rather than keep the car, he's decided to hand the keys over to his wife. "It's a wonderful car and I'm delighted to have won it, but I've decided to give it to my wife. It's far more suited to her than me," explained Jim, as he collected the keys from Soper Mini in Lincoln. "I drove a Mini myself back in the 70s, but now I find a 4x4 or a tractor is more my style!"
The prize draw was devised by Richard Clark, Commercial Director at Branston. "We saw BP07 as a great opportunity to find out how confident growers were in the industry, what they grew and their plans for the coming year. The offer of a Mini Cooper certainly attracted a huge amount of interest from growers at the event and we're delighted that Jim won. We were more than a little surprised when he first said that he was giving it away, but we're sure his wife will appreciate her new car."
Scottish schools set to grow their own
30 April 2008
Branston is supporting schools close to its site in Abernethy with their involvement in this year's Grow Your Own Potatoes project. Organised by the Potato Council, Grow Your Own Potatoes educates children on where food comes from, with each participating school receiving a kit including everything needed to grow potatoes and enter into regional competitions when the crops are harvested in June.
Branston donated additional seed potatoes and Haxnicks Potato Patio Planters to each school so that more children could experience growing potatoes. As well as making the donation, members of the Branston team visited their local schools to talk to pupils about how potatoes grow and to show them how to 'chit' and plant their potatoes. Branston's experts have also provided advice on how to get a good crop and will be returning at 'harvest time' to see the results of the children's endeavours.
Euan Alexander, Field Manager at Branston, who has spoken to over 200 children about the importance of growing crops and the best ways to cultivate their potatoes, comments: "Grow Your Own Potatoes is a really beneficial project that helps to educate children on the importance of crop production and good nutrition. The planting and cultivating of crops is really rewarding, especially when it comes to harvesting. So it's really great to be part of such an inspiring project and to know that Branston's donation has ensured that even more school children can be involved."
Mrs Hepburn, Primary Two Teacher at Abernethy Primary school says: "Being able to get advice and information from experts in the field and practical hands-on experience of growing crops has really brought the subject alive for our pupils."
As well as Abernethy Primary School, Branston also worked with Dunbog Primary School, Newburgh Primary School, Goodlyburn Primary School, Balhousie Primary School and Cowdenbeath Primary School.
Branston helps South West schools to grow
25 April 2008
Branston is supporting ten schools close to its site in Seavington St Michael with their involvement in this year's Grow Your Own Potatoes project. Organised by the Potato Council, Grow Your Own Potatoes educates children on where food comes from, with each participating school receiving a kit including everything needed to grow potatoes and enter into regional competitions when crops are harvested in June.
Branston has donated additional seed potatoes and Haxnicks Potato Patio Planters to each school so that more children can get firsthand experience of growing potatoes. As well as making the donation, members of the Branston team visited their local schools to talk to pupils about how potatoes grow and to show them how to 'chit' and plant their potatoes. Branston's experts have also provided advice on how to get a good crop and will be returning at 'harvest time' to see the results of the children's endeavours.
Dr John Tobin from Branston, who spoke to pupils at Shepton Beauchamp First School near Ilminster comments: "Learning about food and where it comes from is a great way of promoting healthy eating and is important for pupils wanting to know more about their environment. All of the children had such a positive response to the talks and none of them were scared of getting their hands dirty. It's great to be part of such an engaging project that gets kids involved with food and stimulates their interest in growing crops."
Karen Brooker, Head Teacher at Shepton Beauchamp Church of England First School and St Mary and St Peter's Church of England First School says: "We're really grateful to Branston for this fantastic donation. It's good to see a local business getting involved in such a beneficial project. The puplis have really enjoyed planting their own crops and we can't wait to start harvesting the results."
As well as Shepton Beauchamp First School, Branston also worked with Hambridge Community Primary School, Lovington Church of England Primary School, Neroche Primary School, Haselbury Plucknett Church of England First School, Greenfylde Church of England School, Tatworth Primary School, South Petherton Church of England Infants School, St Mary and St Peter's Church of England First School and Norton Sub Hamdon Church of England Primary School.
Branston man raises over £4,000 for charity in marathon run
16 April 2008
Ian Wait, who manages the Branston site at Seavington St Michael, completed the London Marathon in four hours and twenty minutes, coming in 16,934th. Ian was aiming to raise £2,000 for the British Heart Foundation but the generosity of colleagues, friends and sponsors has more than doubled that target.
Ian chose to fundraise for the BHF after his baby daughter, Niamh, underwent open heart surgery to rectify a congenital heart defect. His dad and father-in-law have also suffered heart attacks. Ian's dad and brother were waiting for him at the finish line, while his wife and friends were cheering him on at the 24 mile mark.
"It was an amazing day, there was a real carnival atmosphere and the cheering of the crowds really encouraged me," commented Ian. "It was great having so much support from my friends and family, who really got behind me in the last stretch when I needed it the most. And although being overtaken by a womble is something that I'll never forget, the view from Millenium Bridge as I crossed the river Thames was really awe inspiring."
Despite suffering from various aches and pains and an injured left knee, Ian says he'd still consider running the Marathon again. "I was taken aback by the amount of money I was able to raise for the British Heart Foundation. They do some amazing work and it's great to be able to give something back to such a worthwhile cause. I'd definitely consider running the London Marathon again, it was an amazing day and the money I'm raising will help tackle a really serious disease. I'd like to thank my friends and family and all the people who have sponsored me."
To find out more about Ian's run or add to the total raised please visit www.justgiving.com/ianwait.
£1 million investment in Abernethy site
16 April 2008
Branston has added another £1 million to the £2 million already invested in its Abernethy site, in response to increased demand for the company's potatoes.
In this latest round of capital expenditure a state-of-the-art production line and water treatment system have been installed. The new production line is one of the first in the UK to feature a Newtec 3015 multi-head weigher and also features the latest GIC vertical form bagging machine. As a result of the investment Branston can now weigh and package portion controlled baking potatoes with greater accuracy and increased efficiency.
11 new people have also been recruited to work on the new production line. The new graders, packers, forklift driver and machine operator could be joined by an additional 18 new recruits once the line is operating at full capacity. A new water treatment system has been installed alongside the production line to ensure that the factory's waste water is as clean as possible on disposal.
Eric Ritchie, General Manager at Abernethy comments: "With more growers and an increase in demand, Branston is busier than ever before. The investment in Abernethy reflects this and while we're looking to increase our production, we are also committed to minimising our impact on the environment."
Following Branston's acquisition of the Abernethy factory in 2004, it has spent over £3 million in developing the site, increasing throughput by more than 300%, with production rising from 25,000 to 80,000 tonnes per year.
Branston in Skills Pledge
01 April 2008
Branston has committed itself to supporting its employees wishing to improve their basic skills, such as literacy and numeracy. The company is working with local training provider ISIS to establish ongoing training to enable staff to achieve Basic English and Basic Maths qualifications (up to NVQ Level 3). Julie McTurk, Finance Director and Simon Telfer, HR and Logistics Director, welcomed ISIS to the Lincolnshire site to launch the Skills Pledge.
Graeme Beattie, Managing Director at Branston, says the company has always been supportive of staff development, with many senior managers having joined the business at much lower levels.
"By signing the pledge, we are saying we're focused on actively encouraging our team to develop themselves and supporting them as they gain skills and qualifications that will meet both their needs and those of the company," says Graeme. "As a company we invest significant amounts each year in training and this is the latest initiative that we've introduced to ensure our people have the opportunities needed to progress."
The Skills Pledge has been developed by the Government as part of its efforts to make the UK's economy more competitive. The scheme is based on research that shows that a skilled and competent workforce is one of the keys to productive, successful businesses.
Other companies to sign up to the Skills Pledge include DHL, Donald & Aichison, Shell and Vodafone.
Potatoes set off for island getaway
31 March 2008
Angus Rice, Centre Manager from Islay Disabled Endeavours and Action (IDEA) initially approached Tom Bramwell, a supervisor at the Lincoln site to find out more about growing potatoes. Tom was interested in learning more about the charity's work on the island and was keen to support them in growing more of their own fresh produce. IDEA asked Branston for seed potatoes for its Market Garden project, which aims to increase the amount of locally grown produce, helping to make the island more self sufficient and reducing its reliance on the mainland for groceries. So we responded with a generous donation of seed potatoes, with a range of varieties to last through the season. The seed potatoes were collected from our Abernethy site, and will be planted on the island of Islay, one of the southern-most islands of the Inner Hebrides.
"We are extremely grateful to Branston for this donation," said Angus Rice. "Without the support of community-spirited companies like Branston we wouldn't be able to carry out initiatives such as the Market Garden project, that promote social inclusion as well as securing an extra revenue stream to keep the group up and running."
IDEA supports adults of all ages with physical disabilities, learning difficulties and mental health problems. It aims to promote social inclusion by actively engaging with the local community and empowering its members through educational and recreational activities. Once grown, some of the potatoes will be used for IDEA's twice-weekly lunches, with the majority of the crop being sold to local residents and businesses. The money raised will be used to support the group, which has been in existence for just over ten years and is in constant need of new revenue streams.
Eric Ritchie, General Manager at the Branston site in Abernethy, commented: "IDEA's Market Garden project is a really worthwhile cause that helps some of the most vulnerable people in an outlying area of Scotland. We're really pleased to be involved in such a positive project and we hope that the potatoes they grow will go some way in helping to support the group's aims and objectives."
For more information about IDEA visit the website http://www.geocities.com/ideas_islay/index.htm.
Potatoes take centre stage at a Lincolnshire school
28 March 2008
Staff and pupils at South Hykeham Primary School enjoyed a day-long potato extravaganza as part of a joint celebration of the National Year of Food and Farming and the International Year of the Potato.
Pupils were able to plant and eat potatoes, as well as competing with each other utilising the ever versatile vegetable. Members of the Branston team visited the school and donated seed potatoes, Haxnicks' potato patio planters and baking potatoes for all the pupils.
Pete Blaylock, Field Services Manager, started the day with a talk on how potatoes grow and their importance as a food source. Following Pete's talk pupils entered into a range of potato-based games and competitions and the activities were supplementd by a series of online activities designed to teach pupils about agriculture and nutrition.
The children also demonstrated their artistic flair through potato printing and a taking part in a competition for the best decorated potato. The competition was judged by Jo Parish, Retail Director and Jackie Baker, Marketing Executive, who then helped the children plant seed potatoes. The children are looking forward to using the resulting crop in their cookery lessons in a few months time.
"This is a great opportunity for the children to learn about food in a 'hands-on' way that will stimulate interest in healthy eating, the growing process and build an understanding of where food comes from," commented Jo. "South Hykeham Primary School's decision to dedicate a day to the subject is highly commendable and quite an achievement."
Anna Malloch, Deputy Head at the school said: "We are extremely grateful to Branston for their generous donation of both time and materials. Our pupils will now be able to monitor these plants as they grow and use their experiences alongside the national curriculum."
134 puplis took part in the festivities and at the end of the day they all sat down to a baked potato supper, cooked by Carol Philips owner of Hall Farm B&B, which is next door to the school.
Lincolnshire children start to grow their own potatoes
25 March 2008
Branston is helping hundreds of Lincolnshire school children to find out more about where food comes from by growing their own potatoes.
The company has donated additional seed potatoes, Haxnicks' potato patio planters and expert time in support of the British Potato Council's 'Grow Your Own Potatoes' competition. Branston has helped eight schools around Lincoln so far and hopes that next year even more will join in. The Branston sites in Somerset and Perth are also working with their local schools to promote the GYOP initiative and get more children involved.
Members of the Branston agronomy team are working with staff at each school to tailor their approach and fit in with the school's requirements, with anything from a small after-school gardening club to a full school assembly of 400 children. They're sharing their potato expertise with the pupils, providing nutritional information as well as growing advice.
Local schools that have already benefitted from visits are Dunston St Peters Church of England Primary School, Lincoln Birchwood Junior School, Bracebridge Heath St John's Primary School, Potterhanworth Church of England Primary School, Lincoln Myle Cross Junior School, St Francis Special School and Ermine Junior School.
Three weeks ago Pete Blaylock, Field Services Manager, showed pupils at Ermine Junior School how to get their seed potatoes to start sprouting and today he's returning to help them plant their 'chitted' potatoes. "The 'Grow Your Own Potatoes' initiative encourages children to find out where food comes from and how it grows," says Pete. "By getting thousands of schools across the country to compete, the British Potato Council is really starting to get children interested. As dedicated 'potato people' we wanted to help local schools that have registered for GYOP so that they could expand their growing plans and get more children to experience the fun of growing firsthand. My colleagues and I have spoken at assemblies as well as talking to gardening clubs and classes about how potatoes grow. We've had a fantastic reception and judging by the children's reactions they're all enjoying getting to grips with growing potatoes."
Paul Bargh, Headteacher at the Ermine Junior School, said it was great that such a large company would take the time to help local schools. "We're delighted that a Branston potato expert has been able to visit us and talk to our pupils. We've learnt a great deal about the nutritional importance of potatoes as well as how they're grown. Being able to actually plant them and watch them grow will really bring the subject to life and I think the children are all looking forward to taking them home to eat!"
Children, parents and teachers can find out more about the Grow Your Own Potatoes initiative at http://www.potatoesforschools.org.uk/.
Lincolnshire potato expert to address international conference
20 March 2008
Dr David Nelson, Field Director at Branston Ltd, has been invited to address 100 of the world's leading potato authorities on the environmental pressures facing UK potato suppliers.
David, 47, will deliver his presentation on the final day of 'Potato Science for the Poor: Challenges for the New Millenium', which takes place in Cusco, Peru, between 25th and 28th March. Whilst in Peru, Dr Nelson will also spend a day visiting the International Potato Park where a £9,000 donation from Branston Ltd is funding the development of a special laboratory, which will help repatriate virtually extinct varieties of potatoes.
"The conference is one of the highlights of the International Year of the Potato and I feel very honoured to be taking part," said David. "Peru is where the potato originated and the United Nations and other parties are working incredibly hard during 2008 to raise awareness of how the humble spud can help provide food and a source of income for people in developing countries around the world."
Other speakers on the conference agenda include representatives from the United Nations, the International Food Policy Research Institute, the World Health Organisation, the World Bank and the Peruvian Government.
The Branston man with the big heart
17 March 2008
Ian Wait, 37, of Seavington St Michael, is currently undertaking an intense training regime in his bid to raise over £3,000 for the charity that helped his daughter, Niamh, survive a congenital heart defect. Ian began training in November 2007 and is now running 17 miles on a Saturday, with shorter runs undertaken several times throughout the week.
Ian, General Manager at Branston South West, admits that he's still got a little way to go to take on the London Marathon's 26.2 mile circuit, but is confident that with his diet of fresh fruit and vegetables and the slow-release energy he receives from his daily potato quota, he will be more than ready when the big day comes.
Ian is intent on giving something back to the charity whose research helped not only Niamh when she was just seven weeks old, but his Dad and Father-in-law who have both suffered heart attacks in the past.
"The British Heart Foundation is a really worthwhile cause," comments Ian. "I just want to raise as much as I can for a charity that has had such a major impact on my family. Without the research that the BHF undertakes on a daily basis even more people would lose their loved ones to heart disease."
Ian says participating in the London Marathon has been a life-long ambition: "I've always wanted to run the Marathon, but I've never managed to get around to it. Having such a worthwhile cause really got me motivated, and with the race taking place a week after the first anniversary of Niamh's operation it seemed like the right time to do it."
Niamh (pictured above) is now a healthy one year old baby girl. She goes for regular six monthly check ups and is well on her way to a full recovery.
Anyone wishing to sponsor Ian can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/ianwait and following the links provided.
Support for Swanmead Community School's Invasion Games Festival
13 February 2008
A donation from Branston's Seavington St Michael site has enabled 120 Year 3 and 4 pupils from local First Schools around Swanmead to enjoy a number of exercises designed to encourage teamwork and communication.
The festival, which was co-ordinated by Swanmead's School Sport Co-ordinator, Mark Lees, was hosted on the Swanmead Community School site. It was the first of its kind within the Swanmead cluster for pupils of that particular age group.
The pupils enjoyed ninety minutes participating in a number of small sided invasion games, focussing on developing cross-sport specific skills including movement, balance, throwing and catching and kicking.
The festival encouraged teamwork and communication and ensured pupils from different schools were not only able to represent their school but show they could work effectively together with pupils who they might not have met before. The day's activities were led by Year 7 pupils from Swanmead Community School who have ben identified using the Sports Partnership Gifted and Talented programme.
One of the Year 7 pupils said: "I really enjoy working with pupils from the First Schools. It's great fun and gives me an opportunity to help them in their physical development."
Organisers praised the effort and leadership demonstrated by all of the Year 7 pupils and said the event was a huge success. "I'd like to thank everyone for their effort and enthusiasm," said Mark Lees. "It's been a great day and would not have been possible without the support of Branston."
Ian Wait, General Manager of Branston's Seavington St Michael site, added: "As a major employer in the region and a company which relies on teamwork to deliver our product we were happy to lend our support. There's certainly a connection between potatoes - one of the best sources of energy as part of a well balanced diet - and adopting an active life!"
Business success creates new job opportunities in Abernethy
18 January 2008
The right people make the difference
Branston has grown steadily over the years and is now planning even more business growth. The company's solid track record suggests a high level of job security for the right people, plus opportunities for progression are excellent ... the current site manager started as a forklift driver.
Several positions are available, from packers and forklift drivers to machine operators and quality assurance operatives. All involve shift work, but the company may also offer additional flexibility. The pay and benefits package is competitive and includes a contributory pension scheme.
Branston is holding an Open Day at the Abernethy factory on 31st January to give prospective applicants the opportunity to look around the factory and meet members of the Branston team.
Branston Gains ISO 14001
16 January 2008
The UK's leading supplier of fresh potatoes has received ISO 14001 accreditation at its Lincolnshire site, in recognition of the company's comprehensive and stringent Environmental Management System. Steve Robinson, Site Manager at Branston's Lincolnshire factory, led the company's efforts. "As a business we're dedicated to working to the highest standards," he says. "Just over two years ago the senior management team at Branston committed to achieving ISO 14001. Since then we've looked at our entire operation, from the waste we produce through to our use of oil, gas and electricity. Wherever possible we now have a system to minimise our impact on the environment, reduce our energy consumption and maximise the reuse or recycling of waste materials.
"Preparing to be audited for ISO 14001 requires a full review of performance and has been incredibly hard work and very demanding. As a result of changing our working practices, we're helping the business to reduce its costs and become greener at the same time, so it's a win-win situation. Everyone is becoming more aware of the need to manage their impact on the environment and ISO 14001 shows our customers and suppliers that we're a committed and responsible company operating to the highest standards."
The Lincolnshire factory is the second of the company's three sites to achieve ISO 14001. Branston Scotland was accredited in March 2003, with Branston South West currently preparing to be audited later this year.
ISO 14001 was first published in 1996 by the International Organisation for Standardisation and specifies the actual requirements for an environmental management system. It applies to those environmental aspects that the organisation has control over and on which it can be expected to have an influence.
£8,000 boost for Somerset School
10 January 2008
The funding has enabled them to buy two Smartboards and six laptops to bring the latest modern technology and education together in the classroom.
The Shepton Beauchamp First School held a presentation ceremony on Thursday 10 January to thank its sponsors. Branston Ltd, the UK's leading potato supplier, and J H Maritime Ltd have provide over £5,000 between them for the smartboards, and a host of other local companies helped to fund the laptops and other equipment.
Ian Wait, General Manager for Branston Ltd at its Seavington St Michael site, was on hand to present the school witha cheque for its share of the sponsorship. He said: "I was really pleased to be invited along to the presentation and so that I could meet the children who will benefit from the new equipment. Branston fully supports local community initiatives and I was delighted to be able to help Shepton Beaucham School in this way."
School Community Governor Sharon Humphreys approached both Branston and J H Maritime Ltd, who were happy to oblige. In addition, further sponsorship came from Friends of Shepton School, Shepton Beauchamp Village Charity, Gooch & Housego of Ilminster, Monkey Puzzle, Bakery Computing, LMS International Ltd and Stonewalk Construction Ltd. Fund raising efforts by the school and the proceeds from a community project prize won by Shepton Stores helped to complete the project.
Branston to help Peruvian farmers as part of International Year of the Potato
01 January 2008
The UK's leading potato producer, Branston Ltd, has marked the start of the International Year of the Potato by donating £9,000 to establish a Potato Park, in the South of the country, near Cuzco, to help the repatriation of potatoes native to Peru.
The International Year of the Potato was officially launched at the United Nations headquarters in New York in October 2007. Its aim is to raise awareness of the important role potatoes play around the world in overcoming hunger and poverty.
Potatoes originated in Peru, with the Spanish bringing them to Europe in the 1500s. Since then the Peruvian potato industry has suffered significant decline due to disease, changes in government policy, a move away from traditional farming techniques and the effects of large scale conflict.
Thanks to Branston's donation and the efforts of the International Potato Centre in Lima, specialised facilities for development and propagation will be constructed early in 2008.
These facilities will provide Peruvian potato experts with the equipment they need to cultivate some 300 varieties of potatoes, all of which are on the verge of extinction. Once re-established, the seed of these rare potatoes will be distributed among the Potato Park farmers who can once again start growing some of the world's oldest types of potatoes.
Branston's Dr David Nelson is behind the company's donation. "Our company wouldn't exist without the potato and the potato wouldn't exist without the people of Peru," he says. "This project gives something back to the communities who gave the world one of its most versatile and nutritous foods and which remains, even today, such an important centre of genetic diversity.
"Branston's donation and the building of the Potato Park appears to be kick-starting a number of other initiatives within the Potato Park communities including a Potato Museum and specialist restaurants serving traditional potato based dishes. The region is already well visited by tourists on their way to nearby Machu Pichu, and the history of development of the humble potato could well form part of many tourist itineraries in the years ahead."
The International Year of the Potato runs until the end of September 2008. For more information, visit www.potato2008.org.
Branston makes its largest ever charitable donation
24 November 2007
Branston Ltd has made its largest ever charitable donation, presenting the Epic Project with a cheque for £50,000 to help fund the development of Lincolnshire’s £7-million, low carbon conference and exhibition centre.
Lincolnshire Agricultural Society chief executive, Helen Houghton, received the massive donation from Branston’s managing director Graeme Beattie outside the Epic Centre on the Lincolnshire Showground.
Branston, which is the UK’s leading supplier of potatoes made the donation as it believes the Epic Project’s work will have a wide reaching benefits.
“When completed, the Epic Centre will be at the cutting edge of research into combating climate change and will promote the use of low carbon technologies to both the general public and businesses not just in Lincolnshire, but across the UK and beyond,” said Mr Beattie. “As one of the country’s leading food suppliers we rely on the natural environment for our livelihood and recognise that everyone in agriculture needs to be working in harmony with nature not against it.
“As our new 9,000 tonne, £2.1m environmentally friendly cold store demonstrates, Branston is already working towards minimising its impact on the environment. We have already established our own carbon footprint, employed an Environmental Manager and have several large scale projects on the go which demonstrate our commitment to the environment.”
Central to the Epic Project is the construction of the Epic Centre, which will feature exhibition halls, office and meeting facilities all built with a focus on using sustainable materials. The ten month build, overseen by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, commenced in July this year and is on course to open in May 2008.
Lincolnshire expert to address Scottish potato industry
03 July 2007
Dr David Nelson, Field Director at Branston Ltd will close next month’s Potatoes In Practice conference by presenting his paper on how the industry can best adapt to climate change.
As well as climate change, Dr Nelson’s presentation — Environmental pressures on the Potato Supply Chain – will also look at how Scotland’s potato growers can limit their carbon footprint, become more ‘environmentally friendly’ and follow the latest best practice guidelines.
Taking place on 9th August, Potatoes In Practice is Scotland’s premier event for potato growers and producers. The one day mix of seminars and demonstrations is well attended by the majority of Scotland’s largest growers. Dr Nelson is one of only four guest speakers to be invited. Before Dr Nelson brings the event to a close, delegates will also hear from Scottish Executive’s Director General, Environment, Richard Wakeford.
“I am very excited about the opportunity to share my views on how Scotland’s farmers and indeed UK potato growers at large can adjust their processes and working practices to the changing environmental pressures,” says Dr Nelson. “At Branston we’re very conscious of the need for change and the impact the potato industry can have on the environment. Potatoes In Practice will be the perfect platform for us to discuss the range of environmental pressures being faced by the potato industry. Whether warmer springs, soil erosion or the carbon balance of field operations and storage, we need to understand how we can maximize yields and quality yet limit our environmental impact.”
Potatoes in Practice, which this year is being held at Invergowrie, near Dundee, is organised by Scottish Crop Research Institute, Scottish Agricultural College and CSCPotatoCare and sponsored by the British Potato Council. Over 500 people are expected to attend.
Branston announces British Potato 2007 sponsorship
01 May 2007
As well as financially supporting BP2007, Branston intends to use the occasion to showcase a range of new products and to entertain current and potential growers on its stand.
“As a major player in the potato industry and committed supporters of the British Potato Council we were keen to demonstrate our position in the market. What better way to do this than by sponsoring the industry’s largest and most important event?” says Branston’s Managing Director, Graeme Beattie. “BP2007 will build upon the successes of the 2005 and 2003 events. As the single largest dedicated potato event it is of obvious importance to the industry and gives everyone involved in growing, handling, processing and retailing a chance to come together and share their views. We’re very much looking forward to it.”
Branston’s support has been warmly received by the British Potato Council: “Branston’s sponsorship of BP2007 is fantastic news and means a great deal to the event and to the British Potato Council,” says David Walker, Chairman of the British Potato Council. “The fact that major companies from the industry are drawn to BP2007 is key to its success. So we’re delighted that not only has Branston committed to attend the event once again but has offered to help fund it. We’re confident that this year’s event will be the biggest and best yet.”
BP2007 takes place over 28th and 29th November at the Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate. Over 6,000 visitors are expected, along with 200 exhibitors.
Branston launches the Real Potato Co.
01 May 2007
The Real Potato Co. will initially launch within 250 Tesco stores around the country with two exclusive varieties of potato completely new to the UK market – Bellini and Piccolo. With a strong commitment to selling only fresh high quality potatoes, The Real Potato Co. will add to its range throughout the year with interesting new product lines that will include seasonal specific varieties.
Bellini, grown in the UK, Spain, Italy, and Israel is a Mediterranean style long, white oval potato with a bright, creamy skin and flesh. Extremely versatile with shallow eyes, Bellini is perfect for a wide range of cooking purposes including boiling, baking, roasting and frying.
Piccolo is a salad potato variety with an oval shape and smooth golden skin and flesh. With an impressive eating quality Piccolo is perfect for the summer months but will also be available throughout the winter as it stores well without sweetening as many other salad varieties do.
Both Bellini and Piccolo varieties will remain exclusive to Tesco, however The Real Potato Co. plans to extend its offering to a wider audience with the introduction of additional new potatoes to the range.
Jo Parish, Retail Director, Branston Ltd said:
“The launch of The Real Potato Co. brand in Tesco stores heralds a new era for Branston Ltd. We are delighted to be introducing consumers to new varieties of potato and are confident The Real Potato Co’s ranges will speak to the growing number of consumers who demand fresh, high quality potatoes in a contemporary manner.”
Branston celebrates ten years in Somerset
01 May 2007
It really doesn’t seem like ten years ago that Branston Ltd acquired the site from Stemwest Produce and to mark the occasion the Senior Management Team in Somerset are treating the South West team to a slice of birthday cake. It will take three massive sponge cakes to cater for everyone!
The way Branston in the South West has developed since we bought it on 21st April 1997 is simply amazing. Its success is testimony to the hard work and dedication of everyone who works there, so we’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to them all for their efforts. With it being the tenth anniversary, we thought you’d like to hear the ten top factory facts about Branston in the South West:
- Site turnover has increased by a staggering 128%.
- Around 1250 tonnes of potatoes are packed each week, compared to 700 tonnes in 1997.
- The Seavington St Michael site was the first Branston Ltd factory to receive Investors In People and has since been reaccredited in 2003 and 2006.
- There was no formal Producer Group when we bought Stemwest back in 1997. There are now 36 members in the Producer Group supplying potatoes to the site.
- In August 2002 the site achieved British Retail Consortium at Higher Level, which has been maintained ever since.
- The punnet factory opened on site in June 2000 to handle salad potatoes in thermoformed trays.
- Branston in the South West was a key driver in the development of the Tesco Cornish brand.
- £6 million has been invested in capital expenditure projects over the decade.
- The site has changed considerably since 1997. We’ve built a new office block, new staff and canteen facilities, a cold store complex and rapid warming and cooling areas.
- 173 people work at the site today, compared to 129 ten years ago.
Happy Birthday and here’s to the next 10 years!