Category Archives: Food & Drink

Food & Drink, News

Hydes reintroduces century old vintage bitter for first time on draught

Salford-based brewer Hydes is offering customers a taste of nostalgia after recreating a classic 100 year old ale as part of its ‘vintage’ range.

Hydes Anvil Best will be available on draught across Hydes pub estate throughout July and August.

A traditional best bitter which celebrates Hydes historic ‘Anvil Brand’, it has a bold hop-forward palate with an earthy and herbal character, and biscuit and caramel flavouring. The finish is mildly bitter with a brief pop of lemon and an earthy note of black tea. The aroma has a pleasant spicy, fruity scent.

 

It was first produced in 1924 in recognition of being an important part of the city of Manchester and based on Manchester’s symbolic bee. It was originally referred to as ‘BBB’ and in 1924 cost 7 old pennies per pint at the bar and 127 shillings for a 36 gallon barrel.

Production was ceased at the start of the Second World War due to lack of ingredient availability but was resurrected after the war as Best Ale and later named Anvil Best before production ceased for the final time in the late 60’s.

Now over six decades later, Anvil Best is one of a six strong special vintage cask ale range which has returned as part of Hydes bi-monthly offering for this year.

 

The full vintage range comprises historic bottled brews recreated from the original Hydes Anvil range from the late 1800s and early to mid-1900s. In addition to Anvil Best (4.8% ABV), the range welcomes the return of some classic Hydes ales including Anvil Brand Brown Stout (4.1% ABV), Anvil Brand Pale Ale (4.0% ABV), Anvil Brand Light Ale (3.9% ABV), Oatmeal Stout (4.5% ABV) and Nut Brown Ale (3.8% ABV).

Previously all part of a bottled range dating back between 1895 to 1941, this is the first time the range has been re-introduced on cask. Hydes has also recreated the original bottle designs featuring the Hydes Queens Brewery branding to feature on the bar pump clips and beer mats.

 

Managing director of Hydes Brewery, Adam Mayers said: “Anvil Best is an important ale from the Hydes history books that dates back to the beginnings of the brewery. The reintroduction for the first time of Anvil Best on draught alongside other Hydes bottled beers from the early days of the brewery’s origins up to and including the war years, is an exciting addition to the core range available in our pubs.

“Our customers tell us they really enjoy sampling these authentic brews which are all based on the original classic recipes. Anvil Best is making a limited return for the first time in over 100 years and was first introduced as a bottled bitter in 1924 so it’s great to see it make a historic return exactly a century later for today’s drinkers to enjoy fresh from the cask.”

 

Hydes, with its brewery in Media City, Salford, was formed in 1863 and supplies beers to wholesalers, pub companies and other brewers throughout the UK and a pub retailing estate of over 50 pubs across the North West of England and North Wales.

To find out more about Hydes Brewery visit https://www.hydesbrewery.com/.

Food & Drink, Gardens, Hospitality, News

Hydes pubs summer ready following £1M beer garden makeovers

Salford-based brewer and pub retailer Hydes is ready to welcome customers to its beer gardens, patios and terraces after investing over £1M across its pub estate.

As part of its ongoing pub refurbishment programme which has seen over £10M pumped into its estate since 2022, the family-owned business has enhanced many of its outdoor spaces, carrying out makeovers which have seen investment in smart new decking, patios, planters, benches and furniture, Nordic-style tipi extensions and outdoor screens and heaters. There’s even an innovative beer barn at The Joshua Bradley in Hyde which can be used exclusively for weddings and events.

Hydes pubs also have a packed programme of summer events taking place with successful garden parties having already taken place at a number of venues including The Joshua Bradley in Hyde and The Jolly Thresher in Lymm. The Golden Lion in Rossett is preparing to host its sixth annual spectacular Summer Festival on 24-26 August featuring free live music and entertainment across two stages plus a great selection of summer drinks and delicious fresh food.

The Stamford Bridge at Chester is also hosting Stamford Summer Live Garden Party on 27 July with food and drink, family entertainment and live music in the spacious beer garden. The pub restaurant also has a retractable roof for customers who don’t want to take any chances with the weather!

Throughout August, a series of family-friendly party in the car park events are planned at the Quarrybank in Timperley, Horse & Farrier in Gatley and The Plough in Ashton on Mersey.

Just last month, Hydes relaunched The Mount Inn in Boughton, with a new look following a full exterior and interior refurbishment.

Timed to be completed ahead of the forthcoming summer of sport including the Euros, the refurbishment of the popular local pub, acquired by Hydes in 2016, includes an extensive exterior redecoration to feature a tiered multi-level beer garden with new decking and a terrace overlooking the River Dee, complete with new garden furniture, planters and features. The exterior makeover has more than doubled the previous capacity of the outside seating area and has already proved a great success with regulars and new visitors.

Managing director of Hydes, Adam Mayers commented: “Every summer we have a packed programme of garden events at Hydes pubs as we know our customers love to enjoy the outdoors. So whether it’s enjoying a refreshing pint in a sun-kissed beer garden with friends, taking in the spectacular views of the North Wales countryside, attending a mini Glastonbury-type music festival or enjoying lunch in one of our Nordic inspired tipis, there is something for everyone this summer at Hydes. That’s why we continue to invest in our pubs, ensuring that our customers have a memorable and enjoyable visit and will want to return, again and again.

“We’ve invested heavily in our pub estate and remain committed to supporting our establishments, helping them to make the most of the summer weather. After the last few years, we’ve recognised that outdoor spaces such as beer gardens and terraces have never been more important. Our beer gardens investment programme is specifically designed to help our pub managers maximise the opportunity and we do everything we can to support and encourage activity outside that will boost business.

“Investment has dramatically transformed lots of our pubs’ outdoor spaces, providing comfortable, welcoming spaces for people and communities to come together and enjoy a pint, a bite to eat and quality entertainment in a space that can be enjoyed all year round.”

With its brewery in Media City, Hydes was formed in 1863 and supplies beers to wholesalers, pub companies and other brewers throughout the UK and a pub retailing estate of nearly 50 pubs across the north west of England and North Wales.

To find out more about Hydes Brewery visit https://www.hydesbrewery.com/

Business, Food & Drink

Hydes invites prospective tenants to become part of the family and share success

Salford-based brewer and pub retailer Hydes has received a glowing endorsement from members of its tenanted estate for its comprehensive support and flexibility. 

The family-owned independent business has been praised by some of its longest standing tenants for the continued support it provides, including minimising rents and price increases.

Hydes, which celebrated its 160th anniversary in 2023, delivered a record turnover of £34.1m last year. The financial success came despite the most challenging economic conditions faced by the hospitality sector in decades.

With its brewery in Media City, Hydes was formed in 1863 and supplies beers to wholesalers, pub companies and other brewers throughout the UK and a pub retailing estate of nearly 50 pubs across the North West of England and North Wales. It currently has 14 tenanted pubs in its estate.

Tenants Mark and Chelly Jones have operated the Stanton House in Chirk, Wrexham since 2001. The popular pub, owned by Hydes, received an extensive refurbishment last year which revitalised the business, helping to boost turnover in 12 months.

The couple, who have worked closely with Hydes to successfully establish The Stanton House as a real community hub, say that investment from Hydes, together with ongoing support and advice, has reinvigorated the pub.

Additional recent investment from Hydes resulted in the pub hosting its first live music and beer festival in May. The festival was a resounding success and is expected to become an annual community event.

Commented Mark Jones: “The support we have received from Hydes, especially over the past five years, has allowed us to fully realise the potential this pub has to offer. We have the freedom to implement our own ideas, from homecooked food to planning events and entertainment, and can rely on Hydes to support us every step of the way. It’s a fantastic example of family-run businesses working very effectively together to deliver outstanding results. We have lots of scope to help shape our own success but we know we can rely on Hydes for their valuable input whenever we need it.”

Christine Cheetham, who has five decades of hospitality experience, has operated The Royal Hotel in Atherton, Greater Manchester since February 2003. She said: “The flexible financial support I’ve received from Hydes has been amazing, at a time when the entire hospitality sector has struggled and many pubs have been forced to close. Payment flexibility, competitive pricing and generous financial support have enabled us to make the pub a success despite challenging conditions including the pandemic, cost of living crisis and all-time high energy prices.”

In addition to providing competitive pricing on products and rent, Hydes supports its tenants in various ways designed to encourage success and boost financial performance. These include, access to extensive free marketing expertise and support materials; negotiated discounts on product ranges from reputable, trusted suppliers; one year’s free membership of the British Institute of Innkeeping; investment in new bar and cellar equipment; improvements of beer gardens and interior and exterior facilities; a dedicated operations manager and regular visits from Hydes’ managing director and head of operations, and preferential rates on Sky Sports & BT Sports amongst many other benefits.

Managing director of Hydes, Adam Mayers commented: “Running a Hydes pub means tenants can become part of a regional brewer that is one of the few still owned and managed as a thriving family business.

“As demonstrated by our longest-standing tenants, running a Hydes pub can be a rewarding and enjoyable way of life. Our experienced brewery support staff give all tenants full personal support and the space to run their own business as they see fit. The fact that some tenants have been operating our pubs successfully for 20 years’ shows that creating and maintaining strong working relationships is key to Hydes.

“We offer the freedom for tenants to run their own business, whilst being on-hand to provide support and expert advice whenever it is required. The best of both worlds is there for the taking: the freedom to realise their own personal vision, with the backing and resources of an award-winning brewer and pub retailer.”

With an existing estate of successfully managed houses across the North West, Hydes has many support departments available to tenants that other pub operators cannot offer.

Adam Mayers added: “We really enjoy building relationships with each of our operators and revel in seeing them achieve their goals. We’ll be there with the right kind of support when it is needed with a bespoke approach, tailored to meet individual needs across every area of the business. No matter what challenges arise, we ensure that someone is always on hand to provide valuable insight and expert advice to support them in maximising their business.”

To find out more about Hydes Brewery visit https://www.hydesbrewery.com/

Food & Drink, Hospitality, News, North Wales, Wrexham

New Landlady Aims To Make Black Lion A Roaring Success In Wrexham

A leading brewery and pub retailer with establishments across North Wales and Cheshire has appointed an experienced new landlady to run one of its establishments at Bersham, Wrexham.

New tenant Lucy Gregson will run The Black Lion Inn for Salford-based pub retailer and brewery, Hydes. The pub has been in Hydes tenanted estate for more than 12 years.

A friendly and familiar face to regulars and passing customers, Lucy has worked behind the bar of The Black Lion for over three years and has more than seven years of pub hospitality experience.

Hydes refurbished The Black Lion Inn earlier this year, with a complete interior redecoration including a new sports room with pool table. The exterior of the pub also received a complete makeover with a redesign and new garden furniture in place in time for the busy spring and summer seasons.

Lucy, commented: “I know Bersham and the surrounding areas very well so the chance to run The Black Lion is a major opportunity for me. Having been behind the bar here for a few years already, I’ve got a good understanding of what works well and I have lots of new, fresh ideas that I’m starting to implement, with the full support of Hydes who have been great and backed me all the way. I’ve already enjoyed a number of professional courses that Hydes offer which has been great for building my confidence and boosting my hospitality and bar trade knowledge.

“The location of the pub means we get lots of passing customers with walkers and tourists, so I’m looking forward to providing an equally warm welcome to regular and non-regular guests. This, coupled with the recent investment from Hydes in the pub refurbishment, will ensure our customers experience an enjoyable and memorable visit.

The new look inside and outside of the pub has given The Black Lion a new lease of life making it the ideal destination for a quality pint and I’m determined to build on this momentum.”

In addition to quizzes and a lively entertainment programme, Lucy is planning on making the most of the appealing outdoor facilities as summer approaches with live music events featuring local bands plus barbecues and charity fundraisers.

A current ongoing fundraiser being staged by the pub is in support of bar team member Melissa Tincello who is climbing Morocco’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal, in aid of homeless charity, Crisis. The fundraising target is £4,000.

Hydes operates nearly 50 pubs ranging from Lancaster in the North to Stoke-on Trent in the Midlands and across to North Wales, including a wide selection of premium dining destination outlets and traditional community pubs.

Managing director of Hydes Brewery, Adam Mayers, said: “Lucy is passionate and hard-working and has got off to a flying start at The Black Lion following several years of dedication behind the bar. Her step up to running the pub was a very natural progression, with her experience and commitment standing her in great stead. Lucy possesses all the key customer service attributes that Hydes looks for in our tenanted establishments. Her existing knowledge of the pub and customers old and new, combined with an eagerness to learn new operational skills will undoubtedly help The Black Lion to go from strength to strength.”

Hydes, with its brewery in Media City, Salford, was formed in 1863 and supplies beers to wholesalers, pub companies and other brewers throughout the UK and a pub retailing estate of nearly 50 pubs across North Wales and the North West of England.

Finance and Banking, Food & Drink, News

Crazy Rabbit Inns expands with new acquisition

A fast-growing pub group has added the Stapylton Arms in Wass, North Yorkshire, to its portfolio. Crazy Rabbit Inns will invest in the gastro-pub to enhance its facilities and undertake a sympathetic refurbishment.

The acquisition was supported with £416,000 funding from Fresh Thinking Capital in a move that secures the future of the historic pub. The York-based Crazy Rabbit Inns now operates three pubs across the county with plans to open a fourth this year.

Commenting on the acquisition, Collette Sunderland, director of Crazy Rabbit Inns, said: “The Stapylton Arms dates back to 1620 and is a central part of village life in Wass. We are proud to be taking over the stewardship of this historic venue and will invest to enhance its facilities over the coming months.

“We have ambitious plans for the group that will see us acquire more sites over the coming years. Our team has a great track record of building the business of country pubs and supporting the communities they serve. Fresh Thinking Capital is a flexible and responsive funding partner that shares our vision for the future.”

The former owner, Rob Thompson, is retiring and chose Crazy Rabbit Inns because of their track record of success in operating country pubs.

Niall Conlon, relationship manager at Fresh Thinking Capital, said: “Collette has a real passion for the industry, and it’s great to be able to support her ambitions. Crazy Rabbit Inns has done a great job of acquiring good country pubs and elevating the offering to grow the business. I’m confident the group will continue to go from strength to strength.”

Appointments, Food & Drink, News

DIRTEA appoint former Huel COO Grant Coetzee as CEO

DIRTEA, the market-leading functional mushroom brand, is proud to announce Grant Coetzee as its new CEO.

DIRTEA, the leading functional mushroom brand online and the UK’s no.1 Mushroom Extract Powder, Coffee, Matcha, and Super Blend products, welcomes Grant Coetzee to its team as its new CEO, supporting the strategic growth and global development of the business.

A seasoned leader with extensive expertise in building global brands, consumer businesses, and high-performing teams, Grant joins DIRTEA after five years as COO at Huel, where he was instrumental in helping scale the business x16 fold, from £9m to £144m.

With a proven track record of driving organisational growth and international expansion in the consumer goods space, Coetzee’s appointment marks a significant moment for DIRTEA. As CEO Coetzee will collaborate with DIRTEA founders Simon and Andrew Salter, concentrating on scaling the business, catalysing global growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing DIRTEA’s market-leading presence, to steer the brand towards even greater heights. Commenting on his appointment, Coetzee states, “I am delighted to join DIRTEA, a mission-led rocket ship, aimed at enhancing the world’s global wellbeing through the power of mushrooms. I have a passion for overall health and fitness, aiming to improve life quality for people. DIRTEA is a fantastic gateway for people to do that, using the functional properties of mushrooms to transform lives. Andrew, Simon, and the DIRTEA gang have done an incredible job in building a really cool science-backed lifestyle brand. I see huge potential in our mission to globally address the true potentials and health benefits of our DIRTEA mushrooms.”

“Grant is an exceptional leader and a veteran executive in driving growth, and we’re excited to welcome him to DIRTEA during a period of remarkable expansion for our business,” says Andrew Salter, DIRTEA Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer. “As the demand for functional mushrooms continues to grow globally, Grant’s proven track record positions him perfectly to propel the DIRTEA brand whilst enhancing our connections with our loyal community.”

Successful in creating one of the world’s fastest-growing wellness brands and communities, as well as showcasing the power of functional mushrooms on a large scale, DIRTEA is renowned for its best-selling, high-quality product range. Including dual-extract mushroom powders and super blends which are derived solely from the fruiting bodies of scientifically researched functional mushrooms, the DIRTEA range offers a wide variety of health and wellness benefits including improved focus, calm, immunity, and energy.

Food & Drink, News

Proofworks launches to unlock a new era of digital transformation in the spirits industry

Proofworks launches today with a proprietary SaaS solution to digitalise the entire spirits supply chain, from production, maturation and bottling, to customer engagement and digital ownership.

Combining user-friendly solutions with the latest in powerful Web3 technologies, the Proofworks platform surfaces previously unseen data and insights, allowing for optimisation and transparency at every stage of the product journey.

This is a key time for the spirits industry, as visibility of channel inventory becomes critical with category growth changes, and as increasing costs and supply chain disruption drive the need for greater efficiency. We’re also seeing changing consumer behaviours with an increased desire to connect in new, authentic and more meaningful ways.

Proofworks is enabling the connectivity of distilleries and warehouses through technologies such as NFC, RFID, QR codes and smart sensors. All this data is stored securely on blockchain and made accessible via the Proofworks platform.

As well as this powerful data being used to inform and optimise production, meet emerging compliance requirements and achieve sustainability goals, it is also empowering the end consumer experience.

A fundamental principle is that users don’t need to be familiar with blockchain concepts or Web3 technologies to engage with the tools and services. As broader adoption continues and valuable use-cases emerge, Proofworks believe these technologies provide spirits companies with a unique competitive advantage.

With successful live deployments in Scottish, Irish and American distilleries and warehouses, Proofworks is already seeing significant demand and has an ambitious roadmap of new features and services which will be released over the coming months. This includes CaskPassportTM and BottlePassportTM which aim to directly address the challenges of investment fraud and counterfeits, through digital deeds.

 

Proofworks began as Metacask in 2021, a Web3 marketplace reimagining the way consumers buy, collect and trade authentic real world assets (RWA) such as casks. After achieving immediate success with the auction of an ultra-rare 1991 Macallan cask for $2.3 million, Metacask has evolved to support the industry in translating new technology into meaningful experiences, now under the brand Proofworks, and will continue as a product in the Proofworks’ stable.

 

Supporting Proofworks’ ambitions, the company has strengthened its board with two key Non-Executive Director hires: Jane Grier, a regulatory compliance and financial crime expert for over 30 years holding senior roles at Bank of America, Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse and Barclays and Duncan McFadzean, Managing Director at advisory firm Noble & Co where he has led whisky transactions over the past decade. Prior to this, Duncan worked for the Bank of Scotland as a Director of its £25bn Joint Ventures arm, Merrill Lynch and BlueCrest, a $10bn UK hedge fund.

 Jane and Duncan will work closely with Proofworks’ CEO, Rob Hollands, who joined in September 2023, and the wider leadership team, to drive the company’s rapid growth strategy and continued expansion in the UK, Europe, Asia and the United States.

 

Rob Hollands, CEO of Proofworks, says “We approach this from a position of respect, knowledge and passion for the spirits industry, and with a proven track record in creating innovations that deliver. Proofworks’ launch signifies an important milestone in the digitalisation of the sector. We’re on a mission to help the industry discover and implement future technologies to solve genuine business and consumer challenges.

“The digital landscape as we know it is at a point of significant change and we’re laying the foundations for brands to unlock future opportunities: from digital product passports and connected products, to the digitalisation of the supply-chain, as well as new incentive models to reward creators and communities.

 “With our new board members, we have a team of world class experts who together will launch and scale solutions that will help shape the future of the sector.”

 

Further information can be found at www.proofworks.com 

Food & Drink, News, Web Design

Anything launch new website for Cauldron Foods

Manchester, 13th May 2024; today creative digital agency Anything announced they have designed and built a new website for Cauldron Foods. The website has a vibrant new look and showcases a new range of products, packing a powerful plant based punch as part of the brand’s new look. The team at Anything has created a modern tech stack and new CMS to allow the brand to seamlessly add content such as new products, campaigns and recipes.

The project reinforces the long-standing relationship between Anything and Quorn (Cauldron’s sister brand in the meat alternative category) which has seen them launch together over 24 websites globally. Through meticulous planning, seamless interpretation and cohesive client relations, Anything has created a fully functional, customisable website that reflects Cauldron’s new vibrant identity.

 

Leanda Falcon, Client Services Director at Anything, said: “Our relationship with Quorn has grown from strength to strength and we were delighted to be appointed as Cauldron’s digital agency to design and develop the new website.

“It represents the brand beautifully and we look forward to continuing to work alongside the team to ensure we provide the best digital solutions and service. Cauldron will also be joining us on a continuous optimisation roadmap, where we’ll continue to create campaigns, new content and recipes with the Cauldron team to help grow and engage Cauldron’s fans.”

 

Quorn Foods, Head of Digital, Lindsay Winstanley, said: “Cauldron has a delicious product range bursting with flavour and the new branding really represents this energy. We needed our website to truly reflect the new look and feel for the brand. That’s where, Anything, stepped in. They have translated our new Cauldron brand identity into a fun, interactive and high performance website. “

“Users can explore our delicious products and recipes through a vibrant new website design, with a seamless customer journey. Working with the talented team at Anything is easy, they understand our business and always exceed our expectations.”

 

The new website brings Cauldron under the Quorn Foods global digital ecosystem with the same tech stack and environment. By adopting a Content as a Service solution and utilising Contentful Enterprise CMS, Anything ensured the team at Cauldron have a scalable, secure, and performance-optimised website that can grow and adapt with the business. The Contentful platform is a proven alternative to less flexible CMS solutions which can quickly become outdated and require regular updates to stay secure.

 

About Anything

Anything is a creative digital agency led by a team of industry experts who don’t believe in limits.

When recommending a creative solution to their client’s digital problems, Anything’s team of consultants purposefully avoid technical jargon. This open and honest approach has led to the agency’s long term relationships with some of the UK’s biggest brands.

With a dedication to future proofing client’s digital platforms with scalable technology, Anything will limit downtime effectively enabling businesses to expand internationally.

As the digital industry has evolved during the past 10 years so has Anything who integrate brand design, experiential, event builds, social media and any communication solution needed to make their client’s campaigns a success.

Led by Jono Brain and Mark Holt in Manchester, Anything’s client’s include, Quorn, Amtico International and Institute of Civil Engineers.

 

About Cauldron

For people who love plants. People curious about plants. And people who don’t think they like plants.

Plants are fantastic. There are no two ways about it. In fact, when it comes to plants and veggies, there are loads of ways about it.

And that’s where we come in. Mixing. Stirring. Concocting. Creating. Making delicious plant and veggie-based foods for you to enjoy. Full of flavour, goodness, and mind-boggling deliciousness.

Serious about sustainability. Cutting carbon. Picking plants carefully. Getting smart about packaging. You can read more about some of the ways we’re doing our bit (and more) over here.

Cauldron products are available from all leading supermarkets and health food stores, including Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Tesco, Asda, Morrisons and Ocado.

 

Awards, Food & Drink, News

Rutland-Based Coffee Roastery Shortlisted for Green Company of the Year Award 

Two Chimps Coffee Made the Final Five 

Two Chimps Coffee Ltd is excited to announce they’ve been shortlisted for the prestigious Green Company of the Year Award at the BizX 2024 Awards. The company secured a spot among the top five finalists at the award ceremony in Liverpool, which was presented by TV personality Stephen Mulhern.

The BizX Awards celebrate and recognise outstanding businesses across the region. This year’s Green Company of the Year Award acknowledges Two Chimps Coffee’s unwavering commitment to sustainable practices throughout their operations.

“We’re buzzing with the recognition,” said Laura Shead, Co-Founder of Two Chimps. “Our team’s dedication to environmentally friendly practices is a source of immense pride. Being shortlisted alongside so many other fantastic companies is a big honour for us.”

“Since we launched in 2016, we’ve tried to continuously adapt the way we operate for greater environmental sustainability,” continues Laura, “We’ve always recognised the urgency of climate change and unsustainable practices, and as a business, we strive to be part of the solution.”

Two Chimps Coffee boasts 100% recyclable packaging and proudly maintains carbon neutrality through a partnership with Positive Planet.

The commitment to sustainability goes beyond packaging. Two Chimps Coffee sources its specialty coffee beans from smallholder farms and cooperatives through a streamlined supply chain. These partner farms share the company’s environmental values and operate with ethical and transparent practices.

“We’re super grateful to have been recognised for our efforts, and we’d like to say a big well done to our team!” Concludes Laura.

Find out more about the award here.

Food & Drink, News, Technology

£750k funding boost for OSY Group’s technology which extends shelf-life of food produce

A company whose flagship technology increases the shelf-life of food produce and reduces waste has secured £750,000 from investors to support its rollout across the UK and internationally.

The funding boost for OSY Group will accelerate its commercialisation of Xtend, an antimicrobial packaging coating which enables a range of food types, including fruit and vegetables, to stay fresh in their packaging for longer.

It will also enable OSY Group to expand its team, who are based at the Manchester International Office Centre near Manchester Airport.

Marc Braterman, chief executive of OSY Group, said: “Currently 1.3 billion tonnes of food is wasted or lost each year globally, and between eight and 10 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions result directly from food waste.

“We aspire to lead the charge in global food waste reduction through our innovative technology, as well as helping to drive down greenhouse gas emissions and food poverty, supporting grocers as they strive to achieve their sustainability targets, and enabling food producers to tap into more export markets.

“This latest funding round is a major milestone as it will enable us to accelerate the commercialisation of Xtend in the UK and internationally, while also focusing on growing our team. We are looking to create a number of roles in the coming months in line with our strategy.”

Xtend is a water-based antimicrobial coating for packaging surfaces. It leaves microscopic pins on the packaging surfaces that puncture and kill microbes and slow the natural spoiling process that affects the fresh produce within.

It has undergone extensive testing at independent laboratories, universities and other facilities, which has proven the technology to be food safe and compliant with the Food Contact Materials regulations for fresh produce, said Marc.

Testing has shown that Xtend extends shelf-life by multiple days on various forms of packaging, he added.

It is suitable for lidding film, plastic trays, flow wrap, fibre and board, flexible film paper, outer packaging and board and film combined for food-to-go, such as sandwiches.

Trials of Xtend have also been conducted with a major UK grocer as well as leading soft fruit producers and large European packaging companies.

Marc said: “These trials, in addition to the extensive testing carried out at facilities in the UK, have demonstrated that Xtend maintains freshness for longer and therefore significantly contributes to reducing food waste.

“It can be easily integrated into existing packaging production, and has a range of other applications beyond food produce due to its direct coating qualities.”

The latest investment, from three new individuals and one existing backer, follows a £250,000 equity fundraising last year and an award from Innovate UK through its ‘Better Food for All’ competition to support companies forging innovative ways to tackle nutrition challenges. Innovate UK’s funding is supporting OSY’s ongoing research and development.

OSY is one of only a small number of companies selected to be part of a global innovation business programme run by Innovate UK in Canada and Australia.

Among the advisers to OSY are Dr Malcolm Driffield and Dr Rhodri Evans, of scientific, engineering and regulatory consultancy Exponent International.