The recent transition over to Optima Catering at Bury BusinessLodge has been very positive.

Last week I caught up with David Coleman, managing director of the company, and dug deep to find out more about him, his life and his intentions for the company, (and what we can expect to see at BusinessLodge in the coming months)

The team, fronted by David himself, is supported by Senior ops Manager Louise Oldham and operations manager Andrew Lewis.  Alongside them are a team of hard working, dedicated staff who make the company what it is today, from the head office right through to offices just like BusinessLodge, where you’ll find Michelle, Terry and Zoe, all on hand to ensure that you are served fabulous food, day in, day out.

David has been with the company since 2002 but catering for around 30 years.  His background is that of a professional footballer playing for teams such as Everton, but he has always had a passion for food and this is where we find him today.

The company operates on almost 40 sites across the UK, the latest being London, with clients that include Arriva, Alton Towers and The White Company.  They have global certifications as well as ISO 9001/ ISO 14001 / ISO 18001 and ISO 2200.

David’s approach is that he treats his job as his dedicated sport, it’s a lifestyle, not a job.  He constantly strives for improvement and to get positive feedback. He’s also hands on and enjoys getting into the kitchen, especially when embarking on a new location, to understand what is required to make it a success and to maintain levels of consistency.

Optima’s approach

Optima’s fresh approach is all about quality and fresh ingredients.  The company use the best that they can, there are no powdered soups and pre-packed produce.  Soups are from The Real Soup Company, specials are home-made and more importantly, standards are exceptionally high. Optima like to do things differently.

As a company, Optima can fulfil every obligation.  They supply, build, recruit and operate anything from a vending machine through to a full staff restaurant.  This is not a huge company, it has remained small and personal with a fresh approach.  It’s about offering flexibility, a positive experience for clients and to take the pressure of the venue having to manage everything in house.

What should we expect to see in the coming months?

Watch out for monthly specials, a seasonal menu and even BBQ’s in summer (weather permitting of course!)

What do you do in your spare time?

David loves to walk with his 3 dogs, 2 Border Collies Cody and Kelly and Shitzu Rosie.  Apart from this, the rest of his time is taken up transporting his youngest daughter up and down the country, pulling a trailer to fulfil her passion of dressage.

A true family business

David is married to Carolyn.  They have 5 children and 7 grandchildren.

Wife Carolyn, daughter Steph and son Matt work in variable capacities within the company driving the enthusiasm through the generations.  

iPhone 8

For those who currently have an office space within Bury BusinessLodge, you may have noticed that there’s an iPhone up for grabs.  This is David’s new phone.  He’s happy with his current one but as his contract is due for renewal, he’s offering the new one up for a great cause, BusinessLodge’s chosen charity, The Joshua Wilson Brain Tumour Charity.  You can purchase tickets at reception for just £1 each for a chance to win.

The future

The future of catering here at BusinessLodge is something to look forward to.  Keep your eyes posted for changing menu’s and more exciting choices as we move towards the summer.

For more information about Optima, visit www.optimacatering.co.uk