The Firm

Macphie of Glenbervie

In a nutshell: Macphie manufactures a wide range of innovative, high quality food ingredients for the food manufacturing, food service and bakery sectors, both in the UK and Internationally. In 2004 turnover was £37m

History: Founded in the 1920s by Alister Macphie, the firm started life as a small, family bakery wholesaler in Glasgow, undergoing the transformation to manufacturer when Alister's nephew, Stewart Macphie, took over in 1954.

After relocating to Glenbervie in 1973, Stewart's son, Alastair, took over and is now chief executive. Macphie has developed into one of the UK's largest independent food ingredients manufacturers

Brands you'd recognise: Mactop Traditional, Mactop Extra, GlenDelight, plus those little sauce sachets and butter pellets in ready meals

The strategy: Macphie is based on the central platforms of innovation, quality and service. This strategy is founded on investment in people, technology and manufacturing capability, with a business philosophy balancing business, community and the environment.

In a recent International Food & Drink bench-marking project, Macphie had the lowest turnover of staff in the industry. It also won a National Business Award 2005 for Business Improvement Through People

Where you'd work: The Macphie head-quarters are located on the idyllic 2,000 acre Glenbervie Estate in the north of Scotland. Manufacturing operations and 300 staff are divided between two sites: Ambient products are manufactured in Glenbervie and chilled and frozen products at Tannochside, central Scotland

Do say at interview: If I were to describe myself, I would liken myself to Macphie GlenDelight - consistent quality, smooth and very flexible!

Don't say at interview: You sound like you've enjoyed a bit too much Macphie Brandy Sauce!

Contact: Macphie 0800 085 9800