The Cumbria Way: A single drop of pies and eggs

'....collaboration involving farmers working with processors, manufacturers, distributors and county council buyers.'
The separation of the product and distribution elements of a public sector contract to supply schools and nursing homes in Cumbria has enabled local producers to successfully supply the public sector.

The Pie Mill is owned by the Hodge family who diversified their pub business by making a range of pies to sell in the pub and at local retail outlets.

With the help of the public procurement officer at Cumbria County Council, The Pie Mill has now secured a contract to supply schools with specially developed pies.

By working with work with local producers, an abattoir and cutting plant, the pies meet the nutritional and pricing requirements of the contract, as well as offering a truly locally produced product.

The contract offers smaller margins than other markets, but the three year contract allows the Hodges to plan ahead. It also complements the retail markets they supply, which tend to be busier during school holidays when pies are not required by the schools.

Key learning points

  • By working together, farmers and growers can offer customers a broader range of products
  • Separation of product and distribution elements of public sector contracts allows producers to focus on delivering the right quality and price requirements without having to invest in distribution

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