Wilson Vale records 11% increase in turnover in 2018

Contract caterer Wilson Vale saw an 11% increase in turnover in 2018 to just under £34m.

Despite a 10% increase in costs through the year, the company said it also saw profit grow thanks to significant retentions and new growth.

Co-founder Andrew Wilson said he expects turnover and profit growth to continue into 2019, but that this is unlikely to be at the same level.

Wilson Vale gained six new contracts during the year including Herne Hill School, London; Kent College; and Lane End conference centre in High Wycombe. It now has 95 clients.

Wilson, who co-founded the business with Carolyne Vale, said: "It's good to report that our continued investment in our management structure and resources have resulted in a positive set of numbers for 2018.

"Investment on its own, of course, is never enough. Hard work, commitment, innovation, enjoyment and strong determination to maintain the highest level of client service standards go hand in -hand with it. Our retentions are undoubtedly as a result of this focus on relationships with our clients."

Wilson Vale employs 818 people, including an operations team of four general managers and 12 area managers.

He said: "We have a strong management team in place that has the capacity to cope comfortably with our expected growth this year. Of course, we are not immune to a potential fall in business confidence, but we are fortunate to partner with strong successful businesses and our focus will remain on supporting them and keeping our food and service standards high."

Wilson Vale's projected annual turnover for 2019 is £35.5m. In 2017 it had seen a 20% turnover increase when it broke the £30m ceiling for the first time.

Contract caterer Wilson Vale reports 20% increase in turnover>>