Baker of the Year was presented to Wright during a Wild West-themed awards ceremony at the Hilton Park Lane in London, run by FoodManufacture.co.uk’s sister title British Baker magazine and organised by William Reed Business Media.
Wright took over The Cake Shop Bakery from his parents five years ago, completely gutting the business and moving production to a new site nearby.
The company employs 30 staff and sells cakes and pastries though its shop and café. The firm also caters for functions.
Commenting on his decision to become a baker, Wright said: “Bakery is hard work, but what feels right is the millennia-old connection between field and turning grain into something we can eat.
‘It’s alchemy’
“I enjoy its simplicity – basic ingredients turned into tasty breads and delicious treats, it’s alchemy.”
Last night also saw ingredients producer Macphie awarded UK Bakery Manufacturer of the Year, after facing competition from bakery firms Bells of Lazonby and Bright Blue Foods.
The Glenbervie, Aberdeenshire-based company – which also has a factory in North Lanarkshire – makes a variety of high-quality baking and culinary ingredients used by bakers, food manufacturers and chefs.
Over the next two years, it plans to invest a further £2M in new technology, including a robot that can operate at -30°C, minimising the workforce’s exposure to extreme temperatures.
Commercial director Richard Cox, who collected the award at the BIAs, said the award was a huge accolade for Macphie.
“The growing list of our high-profile customers across hospitality, retail and the public sector pays testament to the trust they place in the quality products we deliver every day to incredibly high standards,” said Cox.
‘Incredibly high standards’
“We also place particular emphasis on how we look after our local environment so to have that recognised as well really is the icing on the cake.”
Now in its 30th year, the BIAs recognise excellence in the bakery industry, with prizes awarded across 11 categories.
Vince Bamford, editor of British Baker, said: “The Baking Industry Awards highlight the passion, creativity and care that shapes Britain’s fantastic baking industry.”
Meanwhile, Bakery manufacturing company of the year is one of the accolades up for grabs at this year’s Food Manufacture Excellence Awards. See box below for more details.
Food industry Oscars
This year’s Food Manufacture Excellence Awards will take place at The Hilton Park Lane, London on Wednesday November 1 2017.
These awards differ from other industry awards in that they recognise the manufacturing achievements rather than end products.
Awards will be given across seven manufacturing categories, as well as special awards for Food Manufacture Company of the year, Young talent of the year and the Me and my Factory – Editor’s choice award.
Book your place at the food industry’s Oscars here.