Food manufacturers recognised at Baking Industry Awards

Baker of the Year was presented to Wright during a Wild West-themed awards ceremony at the Hilton Park Lane in London, run by FoodManufacture.co.uk’s sister title British Baker ​magazine and organised by William Reed Business Media.

Wright took over The Cake Shop Bakery from his parents five years ago, completely gutting the business and moving production to a new site nearby.

The company employs 30 staff and sells cakes and pastries though its shop and café. The firm also caters for functions.

Commenting on his decision to become a baker, Wright said: “Bakery is hard work, but what feels right is the millennia-old connection between field and turning grain into something we can eat.​

‘It’s alchemy’​

“I enjoy its simplicity – basic ingredients turned into tasty breads and delicious treats, it’s alchemy.” ​

Last night also saw ingredients producer Macphie awarded UK Bakery Manufacturer of the Year, after facing competition from bakery firms Bells of Lazonby and Bright Blue Foods.

The Glenbervie, Aberdeenshire-based company – which also has a factory in North Lanarkshire – makes a variety of high-quality baking and culinary ingredients used by bakers, food manufacturers and chefs.

Over the next two years, it plans to invest a further £2M in new technology, including a robot that can operate at -30°C, minimising the workforce’s exposure to extreme temperatures.

Commercial director Richard Cox, who collected the award at the BIAs, said the award was a huge accolade for Macphie.

“The growing list of our high-profile customers across hospitality, retail and the public sector pays testament to the trust they place in the quality products we deliver every day to incredibly high standards,”​ said Cox.

‘Incredibly high standards’​

“We also place particular emphasis on how we look after our local environment so to have that recognised as well really is the icing on the cake.”​

Now in its 30^th​ year, the BIAs recognise excellence in the bakery industry, with prizes awarded across 11 categories.

Vince Bamford, editor of British Baker​, said: “The Baking Industry Awards highlight the passion, creativity and care that shapes Britain’s fantastic baking industry.”​

Meanwhile, Bakery manufacturing company of the year is one of the accolades up for grabs at this year’s Food Manufacture Excellence Awards. See box below for more details.