Established in 1971 as a meat wholesaler, Country Valley Foods has grown into a trusted supplier of high-quality, sustainable fresh meat, along with a wide range of frozen, dry, and ambient food products. They collaborate closely with farmers, livestock markets, and suppliers throughout the North of England, ensuring that their products meet the highest sustainability and quality standards. Country Valley Foods serves diverse sectors, including hospitality, retail, education, and healthcare, with a product range that includes fresh meat, dry goods, chilled, frozen, and janitorial supplies—each delivered with the care and passion of a family-run business.
When Chris Woods, Technical and Operations Manager, joined Country Valley Foods 12 years ago, he inherited Johnsons Workwear as their workwear provider. At the time, employees were wearing traditional coveralls, but Chris saw the need for a change. He worked closely with us to transition to more specialised food coats and trousers, ensuring the workwear was fit for purpose. This collaboration marked the beginning of a strong, long-term relationship.
Out of all the companies I have had dealings with, in the past, I have found the Johnsons Workwear team to be honest, very amenable and strive to keep the customers happy.
Chris Woods
Technical and Operations Manager, Country Valley Foods
THE CHALLENGE
For over 15 years, Johnsons Workwear has been proud to support Country Valley Foods by providing them with thermally disinfected, high-quality workwear, cleaned to EN14065 standard. Our service ensured their employees were equipped with the clothing they needed to work safely and comfortably across multiple sites.
However, in 2020, the global pandemic brought an unprecedented crisis that severely impacted many businesses, including Country Valley Foods. With the hospitality and retail sectors hit hardest by restrictions and closures, Country Valley Foods experienced a sharp decline in demand. As their operations slowed and employees were furloughed to reduce costs, their need for regular workwear services significantly diminished.
Despite the difficult circumstances, we maintained a strong partnership with Country Valley Foods, recognising that their challenges required flexibility and a tailored approach.
THE APPROACH
Understanding the situation, Chris Woods reached out to his Customer Service Executive at Johnsons Workwear to explore ways to navigate the crisis. We quickly responded with a comprehensive strategy designed to ease the financial burden on Country Valley Foods. Our plan included several key measures: allowing the company to retain garments for an extended period, offering discounts, and finding other ways to reduce costs while maintaining the same high level of service.
Our goal was to ensure that, despite the disruptions, Country Valley Foods could maintain operational continuity and be prepared for recovery once conditions improved. We worked closely with Chris to refine this strategy, and once it was presented to the Country Valley Foods Board, it was approved. As a result, they saw a significant reduction in their overall workwear costs, providing essential financial relief at a time when it was most needed.
Despite being approached by competitors and benchmarking them, Johnsons consistently outperforms in every aspect.
Chris Woods
Technical and Operations Manager, Country Valley Foods
THE RESULT
Our support helped Chris manage costs and maintain the workwear contract during this critical period, further strengthening the long-standing relationship between Johnsons Workwear and Country Valley Foods. Reflecting on this partnership, Chris shared, "Having been in the food industry for many years, I’ve experienced everything workwear and laundry companies have to offer. When I first joined, Johnsons Workwear was already a supplier, and I made the decision to continue with them because their service truly stood out. They take care of everything we need them to and they’re great at helping me when it comes to auditing. Despite being approached by competitors and benchmarking them, Johnsons consistently outperforms in every aspect. I’ll never forget what they did to help us in our hour of need, and I’ve even recommended them to colleagues in the industry."
Our team has not only provided a reliable solution but also enhanced communication, ensuring Chris could stay updated on orders and repairs, giving him peace of mind that operations would no longer be hindered by workwear delays.
This ongoing partnership, built on clear communication and a shared commitment to problem-solving, exemplifies Johnsons Workwear’s dedication to going beyond the day-to-day service. We take pride in delivering true, long-term value to our customers, ensuring their success in both challenging and prosperous times.
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