BFFF creates link between retail and threatened foodservice suppliers

The British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF) has set-up a ‘dating’ service to match food manufacturers that specialise in supplying the hospitality sector with grocery retailers who are experiencing a surge in demand.

The Frozen Food Platform is a response to the crisis in the foodservice market, which has seen trade drop after the government advised on Monday that people avoid pubs and restaurants for the foreseeable future.

Richard Harrow, chief executive of the BFFF (pictured), said: “As the government’s advice to avoid pubs and restaurants starts to take effect, it’s clear that consumer habits are changing at a rapid pace.

"We are trying to match these manufacturing members with grocery retailers who are experiencing a surge in demand – levels normally only seen during the peak Christmas trading period.

"While it may drop back, it is clear that food normally consumed out of home will switch to increased home consumption.”

The initiative, which is supported by the Federation’s retail members, is open to all food companies supplying foodservice and out of home, even if they are not BFFF members.

Any company wanting to take part can register their details on a dedicated page on the BFFF website here