With the ever-changing political and economical climate, Hupfer have taken the necessary steps to secure their future in the UK catering equipment industry.
Following the European Referendum of 2016, the UK has hung in a state of uncertainty as British political leaders scramble to deliver a British exit from the European Union that is beneficial for all.
The results of the referendum have had a huge effect on all manner of markets, including the catering and foodservice industry. While the outcome of the leave vote is set to become clear soon, Hupfer has already taken the necessary steps to secure their future in the UK.
Philipp Schumacher, a director of the UK-based Hupfer operation, said: “As a German-based company, operating out of the city of Coesfeld, Hupfer has built up a strong relationship with the UK foodservice market. With offices throughout Europe, Russia, Dubai and Singapore, the UK base can be found in Knowsley, Merseyside, where our subsidiary company, Trak Systems, are also based.
“In the last 12-months, we at Hupfer have realigned our focus on the UK market, placing an increased emphasis on delivering well-thought-out storing and handling solutions to establishments across the nation.”
Clearer view
The first step in this process for the manufacturer was the rebrand of Trak Systems, previously known as TrakHupfer. The Hupfer name was unaligned with Trak in an effort to better distinguish the two brands, giving the industry a clearer view on how their equipment and offering differs.
“Trak are known for their innovative dishwash and tray clearing conveyors, as well as their bespoke counter fabrication for a range of catering environments,” says Schumacher. “This works in cohesion with Hupfer’s kitchen logistics and storage solutions, enabling a clearer line between the two companies.”
Following the rebrand and reposition, Trak is now focusing on utilising its over 20 years’ experience to build up its reputation as a small, local manufacturer with a personal touch, but one which is backed up by the expertise and strength of Hupfer.
Schumacher says: “Hupfer in the UK has also made changes and investments in recent months, allowing our offering to be better developed to the UK market. Back in the summer, Anthony Pettit who has over ten years of experience in the industry, joined Hupfer as business development manager, and is currently working hard on growing our relationships and accounts with key players in the industry.
“Anthony’s appointment has been followed by Keith May who has taken on the role of 3D design manager, along with the employment of two other sales and design roles, allowing Hupfer to further improve on our service offering.”
Restructure
As well as the factory over in Germany, Hupfer are now investing heavily in the production facilities available at their Knowsley site, allowing them to further improve the range of products that are available in the UK. This investment involves a restructure of the factory and a new design office, sales office and meeting rooms. This restructure will also ensure that the UK operation is fully capable of producing and assembling Hupfer products, as well Trak equipment.
Alongside taking the necessary steps in securing the operation in the UK, Hupfer also have experience in dealing with companies outside of the EU. Brexit is set to effect the way the UK trades with businesses in Europe, but with offices all over the globe, Hupfer’s export and shipping department in Germany are well equipped and are able to process everything extremely efficiently.
Schumacher says: “As an international company, Hupfer prides itself on being able to react and change to any political environment. Our team in both Germany and the UK can offer flexibility in manufacturing and administration and will be working hard to ensure that the fallout from the Brexit deal will run smoothly for our customers in the UK.”
