D J Wright Dairies
D J Wright Dairies is a family-run business in Poole that has been supplying customers throughout Dorset and Hampshire for over 100 years. Throughout its history, it has positioned itself as a reputable, trusted supplier of the highest quality products. They deliver everything from specialised local cheese and dairy products to fresh produce, chilled and ambient ingredients, drinks, bakery goods, and frozen foods.
What motivated your company to seek SALSA?
Food safety is at the heart of our business. We are a company committed to providing the highest quality products and customer service standards. We have held third-party certification for a number of years, but we felt that the move to the SALSA standard aligned better with our core values because it is a nationally recognised and trusted food safety standard.
How does your team prepare for the SALSA audit?
Following an initial gap analysis by our Technical Manager, our teams across the business work together to implement the additional requirements for the SALSA standard. Input from our staff across the business is fundamental to the successful implementation of SALSA.
What have been the most significant challenges in implementing the SALSA Standard?
As a fast-paced business that operates seven days a week, the most significant challenge was implementing the SALSA upgrades within the working environment while limiting disruption. However, our staff are at the core of our business, and they embraced the opportunity to improve our standards further.
What are the main benefits to your company now you are SALSA-Approved?
Being SALSA certified not only gives our current customers confidence that we operate to the highest standards of food safety and legality but also creates an environment for us to pursue new opportunities and expand our business further.
How does SALSA Approval reflect your company’s commitment to food safety?
Our commitment to food safety and quality is now formally recognised with our SALSA approval and we are very proud to be able to share this with all our customers.
What advice would you give other small and local food distributors considering SALSA certification?
Don't hesitate to do it! The standard is easy to understand and well-organised, and SALSA provides lots of additional online support, which includes guidance, tools, and tips for each step. It is very user-friendly, and if you require additional help, there is always someone to talk to on the helpline. We found the whole process from start to finish extremely accessible and easy to follow.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your journey with SALSA Approval?
Our auditor was very professional and friendly on the day, putting us at ease. She took a real interest in the business and gave us some great feedback. We saw the audit as a great opportunity to demonstrate what we do and how much we care about operating at the highest standards.
