Hobart and Meiko have joined forces to encourage other manufacturers, suppliers and distributors to identify redundant and quality second-hand catering equipment that could benefit cash-strapped charities in need.
In the wake of the launch, the two companies have already donated £5,000 and are now calling on others to follow their example by pledging their support.
FCSI, CEDA and CESA backing
The momentum of the campaign is building as others begin to spread the word. The Foodservice Consultants Society International has offered its backing and welcomed the initiative while major catering organisations, the Catering Equipment Distributors Association and the Catering Equipment Suppliers Association, are also backing the campaign.
Giving charities access to redundant but serviceable equipment
David Riley, Commercial Director at Hobart UK says: “The time is right for an industry initiative that gives deserving charities access to catering equipment that is not being used but is still perfectly serviceable. The campaign is growing in awareness but more still needs to be done. Our vision is to create a pool of second-hand catering equipment that charities can access for their own needs – we’re calling on the industry to help make this a reality.”
Bill Downie, Meiko UK MD, said: “All manufacturers and distributors have equipment that is redundant but otherwise in perfectly good order. There may be some value that could be recouped via the second- hand or scrap metal market but we would rather see this equipment put to good use to support genuine UK charities that receive little or no public funding.
“Many UK catering equipment suppliers and distributors already support charities, of course, but we want everybody involved in equipment supply to come together to create a professionally run, nationally recognised service.”
Minimising waste
CEDA Chairman Jack Sharkey commented: “We fully endorse the initiative and hope others will follow the examples of Meiko and Hobart and work together to donate surplus equipment to those who need it the most. The issue over wastage and the reclamation of machinery is widespread in this sector. This pledge will ensure we are acting as one to address the sustainability challenge and to minimise waste in terms of equipment and landfill.” He went on to say “I know CEDA members will get behind the scheme and I urge them to offer their engineering/redundant equipment were possible to aide this great initiative.”
Help make a difference
The initiative originated from informal discussions between Hobart and Meiko with a view to establishing a central database of available equipment with the administration to be handled centrally and funded by contributions from supporters.
Both companies have agreed that the time is right for the catering equipment fraternity to stand united and help to make a difference to those charitable organisations that have been hardest hit by cuts to their funding.
Those interested in getting involved and making a difference should contact:
Bill Downie, Meiko UK Ltd, 393 Edinburgh Avenue, Slough, SL1 4UF
07836 581606
Dave Riley, Hobart UK, Southgate Way, Orton Southgate, Peterborough, PE2 6GN
07967 747208