A Telford dairy company has secured a prestigious victory at the House of Commons. Bridge Cheese was named the West Midlands Regional Champion at the Food and Drink Federation awards ceremony in London. The win highlights how local businesses are driving economic growth while supporting their home communities.
West Midlands Champion Crowned in London
The atmosphere was electric inside Parliament on Wednesday as industry leaders gathered to celebrate British manufacturing. Bridge Cheese stood out among the competition to take home the title of West Midlands Regional Champion. The firm secured this honor during the ‘MPs’ Choice’ Food and Drink Manufacturer of the Year awards.
This event is not just another industry meetup. It serves as a vital platform to recognize small and medium enterprises that power the UK economy. Shaun Davies, the Member of Parliament for Telford, officially nominated the company for the prize. His nomination paved the way for the firm to reach the national final.
Company leaders traveled to London to accept the accolade. Michael Harte, the Director, and Martin Howden, the Director of Operations, represented the business. They received a certificate of congratulations directly from the government. Dame Angela Eagle MP, the Minister for Food and Rural Affairs, met with the team to discuss their success.
Key Attendees at the Ceremony:
- Dame Angela Eagle MP: Minister for Food and Rural Affairs
- Shaun Davies MP: Member of Parliament for Telford
- Michael Harte: Director at Bridge Cheese
- Martin Howden: Director of Operations at Bridge Cheese
Innovation Drives Growth for Local Producer
The judges looked for more than just sales figures when selecting a winner. They wanted to see true innovation in a challenging market. The food sector has faced rising costs over the last few years. Bridge Cheese responded to this pressure with smart product development.
The company created a new range of reduced cost cheese alternatives. This move helped their clients in the food sector manage their own budgets without sacrificing quality. It is a strategic pivot that protected jobs and kept the supply chain moving.
Communication was another area where the firm broke the mold. Most businesses stick to email or phone calls during strict hours. Bridge Cheese shifted gears by adopting WhatsApp for customer communication. This allowed them to operate outside standard office hours. It ensured clients could get answers exactly when they needed them.
“They’re a forward-thinking company, leading the way on lots of initiatives, and a great example of how a local business can succeed globally while still supporting the Telford economy.”
Shaun Davies MP
Giving Back to the Telford Community
Business success means little if it does not benefit the people around it. This belief sits at the core of the Bridge Cheese operations model. Their work in the local community was a major factor in securing the Regional Champion title.
The company has made a serious commitment to social mobility. They actively participate in the Care Leavers’ Covenant. This program helps young people leaving the care system find opportunities for work and stability. It gives vulnerable youth a fighting chance at a solid career.
Their charitable work extends to local schools and health initiatives. The firm donated essential equipment to schools in the area. They also threw their support behind the Shaun Davies MP charity Christmas card. This project raised vital funds for the Lingen Davies Sunflower Campaign. The money goes toward Telford’s first dedicated cancer treatment center.
Community Impact at a Glance:
| Initiative | Impact |
|---|---|
| Care Leavers’ Covenant | Providing career paths for youth leaving care |
| School Donations | Supplying equipment to local education centers |
| Cancer Charity Support | Fundraising for Telford’s first cancer treatment center |
| Recycling Program | Collaborating with neighbors to repurpose old equipment |
Leaders Praise Business Culture
The recognition in Parliament validates the hard work of the entire staff at Stafford Park. It proves that a company does not need to be based in a major capital city to make waves.
Michael Harte expressed deep gratitude for the award. He noted that the win is a testament to the culture the team has built over the years. The balance between international sales and local care is hard to strike. Yet, Bridge Cheese seems to have found the formula.
MP Shaun Davies emphasized that the firm deserves the spotlight. He called it fantastic to celebrate the best businesses the town has to offer. The event showcased Telford as a hub for industrial excellence and compassionate commerce.
The dairy sector often faces scrutiny regarding sustainability. Bridge Cheese tackled this head on. They collaborated with a nearby business to recycle and repurpose equipment. This reduces waste and strengthens the local circular economy. It shows that environmental responsibility can happen right on the factory floor.
The team returned to Telford with their certificate and a renewed sense of purpose. They have proven that business growth and community care go hand in hand. The West Midlands has a champion that truly represents the spirit of the region.
