Foster and sister company Gamko have been kept busy through March and April with the demands of the NHS and healthcare services across the country, with orders being serviced from stock built before shutdown. Demand from these sectors persists and now that the requirement is being seen from a broader range of customers in other areas of the industry, Foster and Gamko are making plans for the safe return to work of an increasing number of staff.
Chris Playford, market and development director, said: “Our operations team have put in place a number of health and safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of our staff. These include single direction walkway routing around the plant and sectioned-off workstations, in combination with rigorous cleaning regimes and queueing systems for shared amenities. In addition, members of staff able to work from home are being encouraged to do so in line with government’s advice.
“Opening our manufacturing operation once more allows us to be more flexible with supplying the exact product specification the customer requires. This has a big impact on continuity of business for our distributors and customers alike and provides some reassurances to the market that they can depended on us. In addition, we will continue to provide all the technical and commercial assistance needed by customers.”
He added: “We are pleased to see that the level of demand from the market is increasing which is beginning to safely adapt to the changing situation. Household names such as Greggs, McDonald’s and KFC have all announced plans to begin a phased reopening programme through May and June for their takeaway services, in line with the necessary social distancing requirements.
“We’re doing all we can to help support our customers in these unprecedented times, and that’s no more evident than in our commitment to continue our industry leading 0% interest free credit offer for all those with limited cash availability.
“This trusted financial help allows anyone who finds themselves in the position of needing to buy new equipment the means to afford quality refrigeration by spreading the cost over 12 equal monthly payments – and this can even include additional services such as extended warranties or delivery and installation. With no catches or hidden costs, it is no surprise to see a growing number of customers buying equipment using our interest free credit service.”