New Member Spotlight on Dovetail Foodservice Design

Tell us about how your business got started.

Dovetail Foodservice Design was created to give the ISCC design division its own identity. As the division grew, we wanted to build on the work already being done while giving the design consultancy the freedom to develop, grow and spread its wings.

What do you love most about the foodservice equipment industry?

For me, it’s the variety. In consultancy, we’re there to solve problems, and no two clients or projects are ever quite the same. I enjoy the investigation, the evolution of a project and ultimately seeing a solution come together. The trust we build with clients and the long-term relationships that follow are hugely rewarding. In addition having the capacity to adapt our support to the changing environment is very rewarding, we have also developed many completely new services that have been organically born out of a genuine need for them.

What is the biggest challenge for your business right now?

Helping clients make the case for investment. The independent school sector in particular is facing significant financial pressure, and catering infrastructure can understandably fall behind other priorities. Our challenge is to demonstrate that well-timed investment is not simply a cost, but can improve efficiency, reduce future operational risk and strengthen the overall offer to pupils, parents and staff. In a competitive market, the schools that invest intelligently can create a genuine point of difference. The uncertainty also creates an opportunity for us to help clients understand where future cost and asset risks are likely to emerge, so they can plan proactively rather than react when equipment or infrastructure begins to fail.

What are the drawing factors for joining FEA?

Legislation, standards and industry guidance are constantly evolving, and it’s important to us that our clients receive the best and most current advice. Being part of FEA keeps us close to those conversations and industry developments, helping us make informed decisions and confidently apply that knowledge to our designs, specifications and recommendations.

Find out more about Dovetail Foodservice Design on their website. 

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