Small pie firms dominate awards

Entries to the British Pie Awards 2011 are being dominated by small producers, according to organiser the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association. Approximately 62% of the entries to date qualify for the Small Producers Special Award. The judging takes place on 8 June, and entries are accepted until 27 May. For details, visit www.britishpieawards.co.uk.

Greggs’ strong Easter

Sales were strong at Greggs over the Easter period, as the bakery retailer announced like-for-like growth of 0.8% for the 18 weeks to 7 May 2011. Total sales were up 4.8%, helped by sales of three million hot cross buns up 23% on last year. It also crossed the 1,500 shop mark for the first time, with 1,507 outlets.

Macphie backs charity

Ingredients manufacturer Macphie of Glenbervie has pledged its support to Coeliac Awareness Week running from 16-22 May which is spearheaded by the Coeliac Society. The firm recently launched a gluten-free cake mix to cater for the growing demand for free-from products.

Support for children

Dalebrook Supplies has announced it is an official supporter of BBC Children in Need 2011, which takes place in November, and has designed special Pudsey and Blush melamine plates, with a 26% donation from the RRP of each plate sold going to the cause.

Staff take on Julie’s

A Cambridgeshire craft bakery has been taken over by members of staff after it was threatened with closure. Six staff took over March-based Julie’s Bakery after the previous owner decided to close it down, so he could concentrate on other business interests.