Archive for the ‘Food’ Category
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Trade Associations and Magazines – How do they aid you?
This blog entry focuses upon trade associations which can aid business proprietors just like you!
One of the trade associations dedicated to the fish and chip shop/restaurant industry is the National Federation of Fish Friers. This has been operating since 1913 and has grown to become a truly valued association by its members. The NFFF publishes eight magazines a year which are full of industry related news, the latest industry developments, case studies of successful fish and chip establishments, information with regard to suppliers and advice for its members. NFFF members get discounted prices from supplier and a wealth of information with regard to The National Fish and Chip Awards. Speaking from experience many of the NFFF members use fish caught from the sea that day, take complete and utter pride in every area of their business and produce meals which are out of this world for taste and quality.
When it comes to the convenience store industry there are many different associations due to the wide range of different businesses within this area i.e. independent convenience stores, branded convenience stores, single store owners, multiple store owners and forecourt traders. One of the largest associations is the National Association of Convenience Stores. There are also a multitude of trade magazines such as the Grocer Magazine, Convenience Store and Independent Retail News, all of which provide valuable information to business owners.
When it comes to the pharmaceutical industry the National Pharmaceutical Association, established in 1921 is on hand to enable member’s supplier discounts, provide advice and support, and provide training. The NPA also produce industry related magazines and publications.
It would be interesting to hear how associations and trade magazines such as those mentioned have aided your business?
Temperature Monitoring Systems – A necessity not a luxury
Ten years ago systems which aid in temperature monitoring would have been viewed as a luxury as opposed to a necessity. However with the increase in technical solutions and hence their reduction in cost these systems are now a necessity to any busy, forward thinking establishment. There are various other reasons for this change in perception, for instance a change in consumer attitudes. Consumers now expect the very best, freshest produce possible and one way of ensuring this is by ensuring the correct temperature of food is maintained. Restaurants and convenience stores are now far busier and fast paced than ever before meaning that less time is able to be spent on temperature monitoring. Establishments have become increasingly regulated meaning that temperature records have to be kept up to date with explanations of non-conformances. The same level of detail and information provided by a temperature monitoring system could not be obtained via manual methods, hence the reason why these systems are now a necessity and not a luxury.
