Member Article

Environment, ethics and wellbeing at the heart of Wrights Food Group’s new appointments

Crewe-based Wrights Food Group has appointed two new senior members of the team whose combined focus includes environmental, ethical and wellbeing issues.

Bringing a combined 40 years of specialist industry expertise into the 600-strong team as it continues its growth trajectory into 2021, health, safety and environment compliance manager Paul Strangwood and head of purchasing Lee Crank joined the food manufacturer this month.

Marking a hat trick of senior new starters in 2021, following the appointment of managing director Ian Dobbie, in January, the appointments follow 12 months of significant change for Wrights Food Group which, despite Covid-19, saw the business increase its retail sales by 20% - including a new seasonal range with Marks & Spencer - and introduce food to go sub brands Urban Bistro and commercial food delivery service Wrights Bites alongside the addition of its onsite Sheaf Street bakery.

Health, safety and environment compliance manager Paul Strangwood, has worked as a senior practitioner in the gourmet pastry, ambient ready meal and cake and desserts sectors. Paul’s focus in his new role is on leading the company’s welfare and wellbeing, environmental, safety and sustainability policies with an emphasis on making a positive social impact both inside and outside the business.

Lee Crank joins from his five-year consultancy role and 15 further years as a purchasing specialist. With a focus on purchasing across food, food packaging and non-resale goods, Lee will harness his early career experience as a qualified chef and factory manager alongside two decades of knowledge, contacts and purchasing within fast-paced manufacturing environments.

Wrights Food Group Commercial Director Helen Bowyer said: “Both Paul and Lee are experienced, knowledgeable and passionate professionals in their own fields. Their expertise, track record of processes, strategic development and implementation means they are exceptionally well placed to be part of the continued growth of Wrights Food Group as our focus continues on operating an ethical and values-driven business for our customers and our highly valued team.”

Wrights Food Group supplies savoury and sweet bakery products as well as ready meals to some of the UK’s leading retail and foodservice operators. The company operates with a team of 600 across two sites in Crewe and includes 15 high street stores across the North West. It produces sweet bakery and more than three million savoury products per week for the foodservice, bakery and the retail sectors.

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