bartlett mitchell, one of the UK’s leading independent caterers, was today announced as a finalist for the Support Global Farmers category at the Food Made Good Awards 2017 – the Sustainable Restaurant Association’s (SRA) annual industry leading accolades.
The Support Global Farmers Award is designed to recognise a business which has gone above and beyond to support ethical sourcing.
bartlett mitchell has been shortlisted for ‘Perkee’, a premium sustainable coffee brand it launched just over 12 months ago. Since its inception, the company has sold more than 500,000 cups of the coffee, making it one of the most popular hot drinks across its client sites.
Perkee was launched in collaboration with Soppexcca, a Nicaraguan-based co-operative, during Fairtrade Fortnight last year. It aimed to provide bartlett mitchell customers with a unique, ethical and tasty coffee.
It was also decided that funds raised through purchases would provide support towards education, diversification and health centres in the local Jinotega community where the Co-Operative members are based.
The co-op (which is nearly 40% female run), is led by its general manager Fatima Ismael and aims to improve the lives of its members and the community.
The Food Made Good Awards recognise restaurants and food service businesses whose extraordinary accomplishments in the last year have driven progress in the industry and demonstrated that all food can be made delicious, ethical and sustainable.
The Support Global Farmers Award is one of 17 that will be presented by SRA President Raymond Blanc and Vice President Prue Leith, at a special ceremony on5 October at the Royal Horticultural Society’s Lindley Hall.
Wendy Bartlett, executive chairman, bartlett mitchell, said: “We are delighted to be named as a finalist of the Food Made Good Awards. Ever since we first formed bartlett mitchell, it has been our aim to develop a business which understands the important role it can play in broader society.
“A good business doesn’t just create great food; it engages both its local community but also helps to create lots of jobs and opportunities for people who need it the most.”
Raymond Blanc, who is also curating the lunch at the awards ceremony, added: “The Food Made Good Awards are so critical, recognising the work and commitment of individuals and organisations responsible for bringing new ethics to our food production, and sharing those values in our kitchens and with consumers.
“The awards truly remind us why we are so proud to work in this industry. Food and its production touches every part of our lives; it will define the society and communities of tomorrow, as well as our health and the health of the planet. Each and every one of the shortlisted businesses have demonstrated food’s huge potential as a force for good. I am honoured to play some part in rewarding their significant achievements.”