Bradford catering manufacturer reports best financial results in over 70 years

Victor Manufacturing Ltd, the Bradford-based catering equipment manufacturer, has reported results for its best financial performance in over 70 years.

Victor, which designs, manufactures and fits a range of kitchen equipment, saw a 27% rise in sales from £6.8m to £8.6m in the financial year ending 31 March 2015.

The company plans to build on this success by increasing stock holding ahead of anticipated seasonal rush.

Victor’s strong sales figures in the domestic market have been the driving force behind the success of the last twelve months, which is mainly due to an exceptional performance in the education sector following the introduction of Universal Infant Free School Meals in England and Scotland and expansion in the retail counters market.

Export sales of Victor’s catering equipment have also increased from £250k to £400k in the same period following new contracts with customers in the Middle East.

To manage the growth in customer demand, Victor recently expanded its manufacturing space by acquiring additional premises close to its headquarters and increased staff numbers by 23%.

The 9,000 sq. ft building features office and factory facilities and is being utilised for retail and commercial counter assembly with 100 of its most popular products, which store hot and cold food in optimum condition, held in stock for immediate despatch.

Andrew Gibson, sales director, said: “Our investment in stock to respond to customer demand and seasonal spikes reduces the lead time of custom built items, enabling customers in education, healthcare, hospitality and retail sectors to find the best catering equipment solutions quickly and easily.

“At the same time, developing high quality, energy efficient catering equipment that is at the forefront of the industry continues to be a major focus us as we look to help our customers control costs, cut expensive food waste and reduce their energy bills.

“We believe that these approaches are major contributors to our success and we are delighted with the results.”

Mr Gibson added: “Victor Manufacturing has been designing and building catering equipment in Britain for over 70 years. Our reputation for excellent service and product quality sets us apart in the marketplace and we plan continue our success looking ahead.”