FOOD-to-go company Deli Lites has beaten off stiff competition to be named 2021 Manufacturer of the Year at the 'Sammies' Awards run by the British Sandwich and Food-to-Go Association (BSA), which represents businesses where sandwiches form a core part of their offer.
The Warrenpoint producer was also highly commended in the ‘Reducing our Environmental Impact’ category, and finalists in two categories of the Sandwich Designer Competition.
It was the only Irish-based winner in a line-up including high street names such as Co-op, Tesco, Starbucks and Pret A Manger.
Deli Lites was recognised for its driven approach to innovation in exporting, operations, product development and delivering new solutions for customers over the last year.
The company's technical manager Cathal McDonnell said: “In what has been a testing year for everybody, we have invested heavily in new working methods, new machinery and new processes.
“This is a real coup for the business and brand. The ‘highly commended’ award in the environmental category is an added bonus and reflects our commitment to policies and community initiatives that reduce environmental impact.”
With a strong focus on export markets, Deli Lites export volumes have grown significantly in recent years, and its products are sold extensively throughout the UK, Ireland, Europe and UAE.
Innovation is a cornerstone at Deli Lites, which launched its own e-commerce shop and delivery service during lockdown, with its menu featuring a range of corporate boxes including bespoke bowls, wraps, sandwiches, plant-based options and sweet treats. The delivery service extends to the island of Ireland and UK.
Cathal added: “It had always been our goal to set up a web-shop, and the lockdowns pushed forward our plans. It has been a great way to build relationships with customers near and far and we love delivering our products right to customers’ doorsteps especially during what has been a hard time for many people.”
The BSA Sammies Awards recognise the achievements of the industry and honouring those who have worked to advance the UK sandwich and food to go markets.
