Orchid - first pubco to become a Red Tractor Licensee
The Orchid Group has become the first pub company to become a Red Tractor Licensee.
The certification isacross the entirety of its contemporary carvery estate which will use Red Tractor chicken, lamb, beef and turkey.
Red Tractor food is produced by an alliance of farmers, processors, retailers and distributors who work together to maintain and raise production standards.
Rufus Hall, Orchid's CEO said: "We believe Red Tractor has a major role to play in the future of British food and farming - by promoting recognition of professionally-produced assured food, and by boosting the reputation of food production in the UK. We've worked hard to win this accreditation and are thrilled to have finally done so."
With diners becoming increasingly food aware and concerned about the quality and sourcing of what they eat, Orchid hopea becoming a Red Tractor Licensee will shake-up the industry as a whole leading to a rise in standards across the board.
"Our greatest hope is that this will encourage other restaurants to follow our lead and also become Red Tractor Licensees." said Rufus Hall
Nick Willis, group account director at foodservice supplier Brakes said: "Working with Orchid to support them in becoming licensed by Assured Food Standards has been a great experience. Orchid are passionate about promoting the best of British food on their menus, and like Brakes understand the benefits of being able to provide quality assured products to their customers. Customers want quality, choice and to know where their food has come from."
David Clarke, chief executive of Assured Food Standards, said: "Orchid has shown their commitment to buying quality food in the UK. They are leading the way in raising the standard of food served in pubs and we are pleased to be working with them."
