Hospitality Malta 06 | Page 14

AppleCore Foods’ ambiance is as reflective of its youthful, dynamic stance as it is of the quality and dynamism of the brands it represents. Being so certified means that AppleCore is obliged to comply with the industry’s best practices that make sure the rules of consistency are followed. Apart from the ISO 9001 certification audits, AppleCore is audited by the Environment Health Directorate, the Occupational Health and Safety Authority, sup- pliers and a number of clients on a regular basis. BRAND PORTFOLIO Pierre explained that with the birth of the new com- pany came the work of developing a strong port- folio which was to give the company the compet- itive edge it reached which makes it so successful. Pierre points out that the brands which AppleCore represents are optimum brands with which the com- pany has earned their trust and bonding. Pierre went on to explain that “These are high-quality brands that add value to the product portfolio that Ap- pleCore Foods service their clients with.” He readily admits that the brands they carry are not known to be the cheapest, but he is confident of the quality and “that is where the company gets its edge.” When it comes to the selection of brands, Pierre goes on to explain that there is no hard and fast rule as to the approach one takes for brand selection. 12 Issue 06 The team is always on the lookout for new brands that could add value to their business portfolio – as long as they fulfil the simple criteria AppleCore has adopted: exceptional quality; care for the environ- ment including fair trade and ethics above all. In Malta there are a number of other distributors who have a wide range of popular and respected brands, so what gives AppleCore its competitive edge over them, we asked? Pierre highlighted the company’s motto which he feels is very self- explanatory. AppleCore Foods’ clients are not just clients but partners and are treated as such. OPERATIONS In an industry where parallel trading is legitimate, and there is a degree of such practice in the indus- try, Pierre makes it clear that AppleCore does not delve into this kind of operation and the only prop- er way to combat such practices is by focusing on the brands they represent as well as ensuring that schemes are in place which reward clients and part- ners for their loyalty. “Maintaining direct contact is key, as is the flexibility to work outside normal office hours - the latter is definitely appreciated by our partners,” he said. HOSPITALITY MALTA