Month: April 2016

When an enquiry comes into the office, what are the key considerations when planning a new kitchen project? 

They key consideration is for us to understand client requirements, it’s extremely important that we first of all listen, to then properly connect with a client so we have all the information we need to start building a concept. We are experienced in all sectors of the market which means we understand on the surface what is needed in a school kitchen, a restaurant kitchen, a hotel kitchen etc.. But it is important that that the new kitchen fits perfectly to the client rather than the sector in general. Each menu, operation and kitchen size is different and we need to properly consider all elements to then offer a first rate project. Each project is unique no matter how large or small and we take pride in every job we complete.

What is the average time a kitchen will be out of action when a refurb takes place, does the business have to close?

Each project is different and not in all cases does the kitchen have to close, it depends on what works are to be completed on the project. We have several ways of working around a kitchen when refurbishing such as through the night installs, temporary kitchens or staged installations. We understand that it isn’t always feasible to shut the kitchen completely in most instances and we have several processes we can follow when planning project redevelopments.

What piece of cooking equipment is fundamental when planning a modern kitchen in any sector and why? 

It has to be the Combination Oven due to its versatility of cooking which enables suitability into all applications and sectors. With a modern day combination Oven quality of cooking is almost guaranteed and you have the option to regen, roast, shallow fry, steam and much more. It has revolutionized the kitchen and most Chef’s now request at least one combination oven per project. We have our preferred suppliers of Combination Ovens and the features built into these units are truly remarkable, one touch operation, programmability and easy cleaning, it’s clear to see why the Combi is so popular.

This week GastroNorth welcome Jon Wall to the team who joins the business as Project Manager, Jon adds further support and expertise to the installation teams and will be responsible for projects across the U.K. Jon has a wealth of experience in Project Management, managing people and delivering high levels of customer service and will be a welcome addition to the company.

Director Tim Whitfield commented: “Given the increase in projects over the last year it was imperative that we added more man power to the team to deal with current and future customer demand. Project Management is a fundamental part of our business and without the correct people in place this could hinders customer service levels, it’s of paramount importance that our team grows at the same rate as our business, welcome to the team Jon!”.

Jon added: ‘”It’s great to be onboard and working with an extremely exciting business, I know a lot about GastroNorth from my previous role and I’m delighted to be part of an evolving team. I’m looking forward to handing my first project and getting into my day to day role!”.

 

We are ecstatic to announce that our Account Manager Callum Kennedy has been crowned the CEDA rising star for 2016! Callum picked up the award at the CEDA Conference at ST Georges Park. A special moment for the business and well deserved recognition for a hard working, highly valued team member.

Richard Toye, Director commented: ” The team are extremely proud of Callum, he’s  achieved something extremely special, an accolade that will stick with him forever and give him even more pride in his work. He is an extremely hard working individual that’s full of enthusiasm, a role model for our younger members of the team and a fine example that hard work does pay off. It was a special moment for me to witness Callum pick up the award, a huge well done!”

Callum added, “i cant believe it, the category was full of great people from great businesses and i feel really privileged to have got the result for the company and also on a personal level. Thank you to CEDA for your hospitality and inviting me along to the conference, i had a fantastic time and it was great to meet new friends.”

 

It’s only a week away and our team are looking forward to the CEDA Conference and Awards 2016 which will be held at The Hilton at St Georges Park. This years event marks a very special occasion for our Account Manager Callum Kennedy who has been nominated and shortlisted for an award in the “Rising Star” category. Callum has shown great potential to date and we are extremely happy to have him as part of the GastroNorth team. We are looking forward to the event and excited for the winners of all categories to be revealed, good luck to everyone involved, see you there!