The two leading trade associations representing catering equipment manufacturers and distributors have announced plans to work more closely together. Catering equipment manufacturers are represented by CESA, the Catering Equipment Suppliers Association, and distributors by CEDA, the Catering Equipment Distributors Association. The organisations have met regularly over many years but there is now more opportunity to work collaboratively on key issues. This will bring an increased chance of successful outcomes that will benefit the whole industry.
The cooperation will have a direct impact on end users – for example, the associations are collaborating closely on a variety of sustainability projects. “CESA and CEDA are also working with the BHA and FCSI to agree a common approach that will help us reduce the industry’s carbon footprint,” says Nick Oryino, chair of CESA. “Energy- and resource-saving equipment will play a key role in the success of these initiatives.”
The two associations have also launched a joint technical conference, which will take place on Wednesday October 2, 2013 at the Hellidon Lakes Hotel, Northamptonshire. “Both the equipment and systems we work with, and the regulations we operate under, are increasingly complex,” says Jack Sharkey, chair of CEDA. “The conference will look at a variety of issues, such as health and safety legislation, servicing schedules and new technologies.”
Other joint projects will include ‘Mind the Gap,’ the ongoing research into attitudes to sustainability within the foodservice industry. The two associations will also work together with the FCSI on end-user training, with the jointly funded relaunch of the ‘Shut it! Fill it! Turn it off!’ campaign, which aims to improve best practice in commercial kitchen equipment operation.
“There is huge scope for the two Associations to work in partnership effectively,” says Jack Sharkey. “We are already looking at educational programmes, apprentice schemes, and developing a code of practice for effective FOG (fats, oils and grease) management.”
“Given the economic and environmental challenges the industry faces, we need to focus on synergy and work together,” says Nick Oryino. “Collaboration gives us the strength to meet those challenges successfully.”
Collectively CESA and CEDA are the authoritative voice of the catering equipment industry, representing manufacturers, distributors and service providers. For more information visit www.cesa.org.uk or www.ceda.co.uk
The Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA) leads the industry with its technical policy work and represents over 170 companies who manufacture, supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment. www.cesa.org.uk
Representing more than 80 of the UK’s leading catering equipment distributors, the Catering Equipment Distributors Association (CEDA) gives foodservice operators help and advice. CEDA members offer foodservice planning, equipment specification, project management, installation and after sales service. www.ceda.co.uk
The Foodservice Consultants Society International (FCSI) represents the world’s leading independent foodservice kitchen design and catering management consultants. FCSI has 1,000 members in 38 countries. FCSI (UK & Ireland) has nearly 60 professional member companies offering independent, professional advice. www.fcsi.org
The British Hospitality Association (BHA) is the leading representative organisation in the hospitality industry, representing hotels, restaurants and food service providers. The BHA represents 40,000 establishments with over 500,000 employees across the UK. It aims to deliver real returns for members, championing the industry’s priorities through partnerships with government and with other associations and organisations. More: www.bha.org.uk