Meet the Chef

The business, which employs a team of ten in Tockwith, is vying to be named Small Business of the Year.

After securing an 18-month catering contract the business not only found itself with income to start to the operation, but also a kitchen to trade from.

Director Janet Littlewood said: “Networking among businesses progressed and bookings from word of mouth started.

“Not making appointments with businesses, but turning up at office doors with delicious tasty samples and a smiley face, while leaving all our details happened on a daily basis.

“Proving to be a great marketing tool, we were then taking office lunch bookings off the back of the samples and wedding and event bookings off the back of the office staff talking to friends about our services.”

It soon became apparent that Meet the Chef could not carry on the contract and commit to other outside bookings.

So with a healthy diary and passion to move forward, the bank granted a business loan that enabled a refrigerated van and trailer, equipment and commercial kitchen and offices to be purchased.

Ms Littlewood added: “Our mission once in the unit was to make contact with each and every local business, regardless of size.

“We introduced ourselves and asked if we could be of service to them.

“We are very mindful that the business must grow at a pace that we have been able to manage, knowing we are giving the service that we are promising and exceeding expectations.”

Expansion within the hire market of crockery, cutlery and glassware, along with tables, chairs and accessories has just taken place.