In this episode of The Oh For Food’s Sake podcast, we sit down with Rachel Chatterton, the head of food and beverage development at Holland & Barrett, to dissect the major transformation this 153-year-old brand is undergoing. From launching a staggering 360 new food lines to revitalising UK high streets and discussing the food supply base and own label partnerships. We dive deep into the obstacles and successes encountered along the way. Join us as we discuss the importance of consumer understanding, rapid testing, stock holding, and the sheer excitement for the future of the food industry.
Today, we are thrilled to welcome Rachel Chatterton, a food industry trailblazer who has been pivotal in Holland & Barrett’s major transformation. Rachel shares her experiences at H and B, where she’s helped add quality years to life through sustainable and ethical sourcing of food products. She reveals how the company switched from a vitamin-heavy assortment to offering an expansive range of nutritious foods by cultivating a driven and dynamic food development team. Rachel also discusses her impressive career journey, from starting at Sainsbury's to opening Starbucks's reserve store in Milan. We delve into the personal strategies she employs to balance the demands of a high-profile role with personal well-being and why their new adaptogenic kombuchas have wowed consumers. To finish, Rachel hints at the upcoming store refits designed to make H and B a destination for both health and hospitality on the high street.
Timestamps:
- 00:02:50 – Rachel's food industry background and transition into Holland & Barrett
- 00:08:15 – Discussing the 360 new food lines at Holland & Barrett
- 00:13:40 – The strategic role of stock holding and quick testing methods
- 00:18:25 – Engaging people and sharing a vision in food development
- 00:24:10 – Amy and Lucy’s insights on work-life balance in the food industry
- 00:33:00 – Consumer uptake and the future of Holland & Barrett in retail
- 00:42:55 – Rachel expressing thanks and final thoughts on networking in the food industry
- 00:47:30 – Hosts Amy and Lucy offer final anecdotes and encouragement to listeners
Links and Resources:
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See you next time!