Q&A with Crantock Bakery’s Leigh Loomes

Ireland’s Forecourt & Convenience Retailer speaks to Leigh Loomes, national sales manager and head of new product development at Crantock Bakery.

How many years have you worked for your current employer?

I’ve been with Crantock for 11 years now, I joined as a Business Development Manager after running my own retail business.

What most appeals to you about working in the sector?

The convenience food sector offers great opportunities for those who can supply high quality products. At Crantock we are a supplier of high quality food so we are ambitious to increase our share of the market, particularly in Ireland.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Trying to provide a high quality product at the price consumers want to pay.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in your profession?

See it as an opportunity to be creative and innovative.

What excites you most about 2015?

I am particularly excited about working with Ireland’s forecourt and convenience retailers. This is a new market for Crantock and I am looking forward to offering our great products to Irish consumers.

What would you describe as the highlight of your career so far?

Taking on the responsibility for New Product Development. I am lucky to have such a talented and innovative team and it is a thrill when we produce a new product that gets a big thumbs up from our customers.

Which three words best sum up you and your attitude to business?

Enthusiasm. Dedication. Opportunity.

What was your first job?

Helping out in my Dad’s tobacconists.

What could you not live without?

My wife.

How do you like to spend your spare time?

With my wife and family and when I get the time, I enjoy cheering on my favourite football team – Tottenham Hotspur.

Which business figure do you admire?

I admire many people but I couldn’t honestly pick one.

What are your plans/ambitions for the future?

To be successful in our plans to have Crantock products on sale across Ireland. My ambition for 2015 is to showcase our products to the key forecourt retailers. That would involve meeting up with them so they can try for themselves the great products we have to offer.

If you are a forecourt retailer and you would like to try Crantock’s products, look at their website www.crantocks.com or Leigh me on – 01726 861120.