A supplier of catering equipment to the hospitality industry, ranging from tableware to ovens, has a new 2,500 sqft showroom and HQ in Billesdon.
It’s the third home in the county for Pro Foodservice Reps (PFR) during three years of ongoing growth in the number of international and domestic manufacturers it represents in the UK and Ireland.
PFR was established by co-owners Andy Piggin and Ross Gibson to offer an innovative approach to the existing supply chain model of manufacturer-importer-distributor-customer.
Andy, MD, said: “We operate as the manufacturers’ representatives, outsourcing the sales role for the factories, providing a route to market. It keeps the market price of the product down and factory overheads under control.”
Mark J Rees has been supporting PFR from the outset after partner Matt Vice was recommended to Andy. Mark J Rees provides its whole range of services to the company, including accounting, tax, VAT, forecasting, pensions and, through MJR Computer Solutions, IT support.
The HQ at Rolleston Lodge Business Centre includes a meeting room to welcome a customer base of hotels, restaurants, cafes and anywhere serving food and drink.
The business began trading at Kibworth before relocating to Tugby when one manufacturer asked PFR to warehouse stock. When more followed Andy and Ross recognised they needed even more space, so moved again. Its six staff will be boosted by two more this year.
PFR is now reaching out into markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Their international activities are well supported through Mark J Rees’ membership of the international accountancy network HCWA providing them with access to quality professional advice across the world.
Matt said: “Professionally, it’s been highly satisfying to help two entrepreneurs turn an idea into a thriving and growing business and extend its reach at home and abroad.”