Hospitality trade increases

Press, 24 October 1989, Page 19

Hospitality trade increases

A current part of Rattrays business enjoying tremendous growth is the catering sectbr made up of the hotel, restaurant and general hospitality trade. Mr David Bain, the catering operations manager for Rattrays, says because this industry is very much service driven it has given the company’s business a tremendous boost in the 18 months. “We offer the very best in service to the hospitality industry

by carrying a wide range of catering product and offering a very quick delivery service. “Naturally, as our business grows we are also able to take advantage of bulk deals and widespread manufacturer support in terms of promotional activity and pass on bigger discounts to the hospitality industry.” The General Manager of Rattrays, Mr Bob Stewart, says that although in real volume terms

the grocery retail industry is very static and he believes it will continue to be this way for some time, Rattrays continue to grow its share of the market.

People are also spending less on food at supermarkets for home consumption and more on eating out. This is one reason why we are seeing the growth in the catering industry, he says.

“As a major independent catering wholesaler we are able to service this growth. “In our view, the supermarket industry is competing directly with the restaurant and fast food trade. Although we are seeing some rationalisation in the traditional seven-day dairy business as they face increasing pressure from supermarkets, longer trading hours and the introduction of one-stop shop service stations,” -be says.

The seven-day dairy convenience store will continue to be an integral and developing part of the company’s business as these customers continue to diversity into such areas as video hire, fast food and a wider product range.