Peter Wright, boss of Wrights Food Group, on how the business was honoured to have been named Bakery Manufacturer of the Year at the 2019 Baking Industry Awards.

“Being in the final three was an amazing feeling,” says Wrights Food Group chairman and CEO Peter Wright of his business being declared a finalist in the Bakery Manufacturer of the Year category at this year’s Baking Industry Awards.

“We were up against two large and well-respected businesses, either of which would have been worthy winners. We’re very proud to have won, and the trophy has taken pride of place in our reception area,” he tells British Baker.

Wright suggests what made his business stand out to the category judges was its story, growing from a family pie shop to the diverse food manufacturing operation it is today.

He also believes the judges would have been surprised by the vast offering of Wrights Food Group, noting that often people think it still only makes pies.

“We have a credible story to tell about our family business, our history and what we’ve built. We’re all very passionate ambassadors of the baking industry and I think that shone through,” he explains. “You’ve got to be passionate and believe in what you do, and everybody at Wrights is very proud of what we’ve achieved.”

Wright and his senior team attended the awards and celebrated the win together. He then sent a personal letter to each employee, thanking them for their contribution in helping to achieve the accolade.

“It’s down to everybody’s hard work and contribution. I have a responsibility in this company as the head of the business, but I can’t run it without the employees,” he says.

To those looking to enter the Baking Industry Awards next year, Wright says be honest with your story. “You must have a credible story to tell. Whether a cake maker, a bread maker, or a pie maker, people are interested in hearing success stories.”

He adds that Wrights is proud to inform its customers, and potential customers, that its has been awarded and recognised as one of the front-runners in the industry.

Looking to the future, Wrights will aim to grow its business further afield.

“We plan to continue geographical growth, diversification into new markets and potential acquisitions of bolt-on companies that share the same passion, drive and desire to succeed as we do,” Wright concludes.

“It’s an exciting time.”

Wrights Food Group chairman and CEO Peter Wright (centre) with awards host Ashley Roberts and James Fitch, bakery sales manager for UK & Ireland at Reiser

Sponsor’s comment:

“We were impressed by the diversity of the Wrights Business, the pride and effort taken in producing consistent quality products in such a complex business and the commitment to carrying out every task in the right way. The quality of the Wrights team and leadership group is exemplary.”

James Fitch, bakery sales manager for UK & Ireland, Reiser