Distributor has ambitious growth plans as it expands product portfolio
2023 is a big year for FEM – the company is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Back on its first day of trading, July 4th 1993, the business employed two people, founders Harry Hogan and Jim Doherty, had a small office in Glasgow, a small warehouse, a couple of desks and a phone. Now it’s one of the top UK foodservice equipment importers and distributors, employs 41 staff, has a 5,500 square metre warehouse holding over £5 million worth of stock available for next-day delivery, runs nationwide sales and service teams, and has an annual turnover of around £20 million.
In June, FEM held a celebratory party for staff and business partners and the company plans more events for the rest of the year. During the party managing director, Harry Hogan, gave a brief history of the company before leading the guests in a spirited rendition of ‘The Wild Rover’. Sadly, Jim Doherty, who retired from his role as sales director in 2020, was unable to attend, due to travel plans, but he sent a video message that had his audience both laughing and in tears.
Meanwhile, the company’s training and development chef, Nathan Osborne, has created a 30th Anniversary cocktail, the ‘FEM 30’, which is based on (homemade) Limoncello and gin. The full recipe is here.
Mike Inwood, sales director, for FEM, says: “A lot has changed over the years but the ‘FEM Values’ that have brought us so much success are still going strong. Long-term relationships are what this business was built on, both with our suppliers and our customers, and that continues today. After Jim’s retirement, Harry’s son Mark Hogan, took on a more active role in leading the business forward.”
FEM works with market-leading brands from the USA, Italy and Spain and is known for the quality of its products and its large stock availability. “But for me, it’s the staff that set us apart,” says Mike. “I have never known such a fantastic group of people. I joined the company three years ago, having worked in the industry all my life, and the service and support they give is the best I have ever seen. Everyone is commercially minded and no one hesitates to pick up the phone and help a customer. They have a ‘can do’ attitude that’s exemplified by the two people at the top, Harry and Mark.”
As for the future, FEM has ambitious growth plans. The company continues to add to its portfolio – with a focus on tackling current industry challenges with labour and energy-saving solutions.
Finally, a message from Harry, “It’s a huge thank you,” he says. “Thank you to our customers, our suppliers and our staff for all your support over the years. Roll on the next 30!”
The picture accompanying this release shows, left to right, Mike Inwood, Harry Hogan and Mark Hogan.
For more information and details of local stockists call FEM on +44 (0) 1355 244111, email sales@fem.co.uk or visit www.fem.co.uk