Nick Redford, former managing director of Caterforce, and Warren Hamer, Sodexo’s global category director for protein, have joined forces to found Arete Procurement Solutions, a specialist food procurement support business serving foodservice operators in the United Kingdom. It will start trading on March 1, offering a wide range of multi-temperature products.
The pair worked together at Makro before going their separate ways prior to the Booker takeover in 2013. Hamer was employed by Iceland and TGI Fridays prior to Sodexo, while Redford went on to manage Caterforce successfully for 10 years, before teaming up again with Hamer.
Commenting on the launch, Hamer (pictured above at right) said: “Following a sustained period of food inflation, it is imperative that food businesses continually review their procurement process to ensure they are always getting best value. Nick and I have the knowledge, networks and know-how to ensure our clients are sourcing the best possible products at the most competitive prices.”
Redford (pictured above at left) added: “It’s an exciting time for the industry, but succeeding in foodservice can be down to fine margins. Having an in-depth knowledge of procurement and supply chains will allow us to provide sound commercial solutions. Our team will be dedicated to ensuring our clients are equipped to deal with ever-changing business challenges.”
The Manchester, England-based business will specialize in providing several key services including ongoing food sourcing support, category strategy management, range management and own brand development across key categories. Arete will also advise clients on strategic issues such as adapting to major changes to the foodservice landscape.
