Sittingbourne-based independent foodservice wholesaler Q Catering has announced a strategic alliance to supply The Pollen Partnership with a range of products and ingredients for them to create high-quality nutritious meals for schools across the South East.
The partnership between Q Catering and Pollen, a bespoke catering company specialising in serving independent and boarding schools, brings together two industry leaders with a shared commitment to providing exceptional food and service.
Pollen is known for crafting bespoke menus that prioritise sustainability, the preferences of young diners and their dietary requirements. Working with Q Catering, the company can now access a wider range of fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
The partnership has also enabled a new, seaweed-based disposable packaging from Notpla to be introduced, which is a more sustainable approach to school catering – something that both companies are committed to.
The partnership is expected to bring about numerous benefits for schools, including:
- Expanded menu options: Schools will have access to a broader range of ingredients and menu choices, accommodating diverse tastes and dietary preferences
- Enhanced sustainability: The collaboration will enable a more sustainable approach to school catering, with a focus on sourcing local produce and eco-friendly products, including a new, seaweed-based disposable packaging from Notpla
- Streamlined logistics: Q Catering’s efficient, bespoke distribution network will ensure reliable and timely deliveries to each of the mobile sites, guaranteeing fresh ingredients for school meals, working to each of their specific needs
- Culinary innovation: The partnership will foster culinary creativity and innovation bringing cutting-edge food to school menus, making dining a more enjoyable and educational experience
Steve Clarke, managing director at Q Catering, said: “We are thrilled to partner with The Pollen Partnership and proud to play our part in ensuring students at schools in the South East can enjoy high-quality meals.
“Together, we can offer schools a comprehensive solution combining top-tier ingredients, expert logistics and culinary excellence.”
Simon Silvester, managing director of The Pollen Partnership, added: “Our mission is to provide students with nourishing, well-balanced meals that inspire a lifelong love of good food, and this is driven by Pollen’s culinary team with my support.
“Teaming up with Q Catering enhances our offering by giving us access to fresh, local, seasonal produce.
“We don’t settle for the ordinary – for us, it’s not about the cheapest option; it’s about delivering the best possible quality we can deliver for our customers consistently, on a daily basis.
“We offer a truly bespoke service from start to finish, working closely with our clients to ensure that we meet their individual requirements, and the Q Catering team are an integral part of that.
“They offer exceptional service. In fact, they now know each of our chefs by name. We share a unique camaraderie and a strong, professional partnership where trust and respect run deep on both sides.”
