Tracklements relishes the future following the SMP

17th Jan 2008

Established in 1970, Wiltshire-based Tracklements produces some of the UK’s finest food accompaniments. Headed up by Guy Tullberg, the company employs more than 40 people and distributes its products through a network of independents as well as major names such as Fortnum & Mason and Harrods.

Tracklements had worked with the South West MAS on various lean manufacturing projects but in early 2007, the company signed up for the South West MAS’ Strategic Management Programme (SMP) which aims to help businesses assess the strategic direction of a company and maximise innovation, knowledge, skills and adaptability.

Guy Tullberg explains: “Tracklements was at a crossroads. We were in the process of moving to a new factory and it felt like the opportune moment to review where we went as a business after that.”

A second generation family business (his father and stepmother remain shareholders), Tracklements had never really had anything resembling a formal business strategy – preferring instead something more akin to unspoken goals. Embarking on the SMP was undoubtedly a big step but it enabled Guy and his colleagues to shape their goals into a comprehensive plan that everyone could work towards.

“Although we weren’t sure at first because so much was happening in the business, we soon woke up to the benefit of what we were doing,” says Guy. “The support we received was brilliant. Our specialist knew his stuff and we could really relate to what he was saying. The whole process was thoroughly enjoyable. It also helped bring the management team much closer together.”

One of the many outcomes of the SMP has been the creation of Tracklements' Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

Having completed the SMP in late October, Guy and his team are now in the process of rolling out their business plan internally. “We are looking forward to explaining our vision for the future to everyone at Tracklements. The great thing about the SMP is that it forces you to take time away from the business to find answers to difficult questions. We have been able to do that and we are very excited about the future.”

Since the SMP began:
• 68 manufacturers have participated in the programme
• 826 jobs have been created or safeguarded
• £27 million gross value added (GVA) has been created or safeguarded
• £5.5 million has been invested by the participating companies in new equipment, factory moves and extensions, improved IT and business operating systems and new technology

If you would like to find out more about the Strategic Management Programme, call the MAS on 0845 608 3838

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