Windermere-based family-run wholesaler McClures has expanded its business after finding a local solution to a storage challenge.
The firm has integrated four state-of-the-art cold storage containers from Petit Forestier, a Durham-based refrigeration specialist.
McClures plans for redeveloping their business premises had been a huge challenge due to the strict planning regulations associated with the local area of outstanding natural beauty.
A search for a new, larger headquarters proved difficult as the company was keen to retain its foundations in Windermere, where it champions local suppliers and their goods to the local and regional hospitality sector.
The firm instead looked for alternative solutions to increase their cold storage capacity and effectively utilise their existing premises.
After leasing several refrigerated vehicles from Petit Forestier, McClures now leases four cold storage containers on a long-term basis.
The collaboration has not only increased McClures storage capacity, but the container solutions have played a pivotal role in the growth of the firm since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Jeremy Cowan, transport manager at McClures said: “Coming out of the first lockdown we saw our business go from barely ticking over to off the scale when people were unable to go abroad but could travel around the UK.
“The Lake District became a prime spot for holidaymakers, and we quickly found we were running out of storage space and struggling to meet customer demand.
“With not being able to easily build onto our current premises and the addition of not wanting to move away from our customers, it soon became an issue.
“With Petit Forestier’s cold storage containers, we have been able to meet the demands of our customers and stay local, without the need to invest resources into moving premises or going through lengthy planning applications.
“The containers are easy to install, and the reliability and ease of use have not only optimised our storage, but they’ve contributed significantly to our overall business growth.”
The cold storage containers come with a range of innovative features and benefits including customisation, reduced operational costs, and minimal noise when in operation.
Jeremy said: “The only thing we have to do often is check that they’re still running! The containers are so quiet and bearing in mind we’re surrounded by hotels and guest houses; we have had no complaints about the noise the containers produce, so they really have been a perfect solution for us.”
Chris Algeo-Brown, head of cold storage solutions at Petit Forestier UK and Ireland said: “Petit Forestier has a long history of pushing the boundaries of innovation in the refrigeration industry.
“Our cold storage offering is a testament to our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers including getting the containers to them quickly and then providing ongoing maintenance services from our field-based refrigeration engineers.
“We’re thrilled to offer McClure the most advanced solution for maintaining their cold chain.”
