Welshpool-based Trailhead Fine Foods has been producing artisan jerky with responsibly sourced PGI Welsh Beef, marinated using a secret and unique recipe since 2018. The beef jerky is high in protein, gluten free and low in fat, making it a healthy alternative to sugary and high fat snacks.
The snacks are available in more than 100 stockists across the UK, including service stations, farm shops, delicatessens, convenience stores, tourist attractions, breweries, pubs and hotels.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the past year has been very successful for Trailhead Fine Foods and Get Jerky products. With a new online shop and new retail customers, their sales have grown by 300 per cent in 2020.
In addition to their recent Great Taste Awards success where their Spicy Chilli and new Teriyaki beef jerky flavours were each awarded one star, they have also recently secured an order to the prestigious Selfridges stores.
Benefits of the support
Under Project HELIX, the Food Technology Centre has worked closely with the team at Trailhead Fine Foods to ensure they met the requirements needed to achieve the nationally recognised SALSA standard, which has opened new business opportunities for the snack company.
Emma Morris, Trailhead Fine Foods’ Business Development Manager said:
“The advice and help the Food Technology Centre has given us has been invaluable. With their help we have been able to retain our SALSA certification.
“Without such certification it is difficult for food businesses to grow and it has offered us great opportunities to gain new customers and expand into new markets.
“Not only has Bethan helped us but the relevant documentation has inspired us to take ownership of the process so we can learn and develop. The whole team at the Food Technology Centre has been supportive and helpful. They have been there throughout, reassuring us that we are going down the right path.”