Historic journey
Birtwistles began as a family butcher shop over 100 years ago. Since then, the business has undergone significant transformations, none more so than in recent years.
In 2003, Birtwistles Catering Butchers was established, marking a shift into the catering industry. Recognising an opportunity to introduce innovation, we expanded further in 2010 with a new facility in Irlam, Manchester. This expansion enabled us to attract and serve customers nationwide, propelling rapid growth.
In 2011, new ownership brought fresh investment, expertise, and vision, driving our evolution from a regional to a national presence.
This investment facilitated the development of a unique national bespoke service, drawing the interest of larger regional and national clientele. From 2012 to 2015, we expanded into the south with our Milton Keynes site and into Scotland with our Glasgow site. Our national coverage is managed by a cohesive, focused team based in Manchester.
Present day
We are now among the largest catering butchers in the country, operating from three sites across the UK. Committed to our core values, we continuously seek innovative ways to consistently deliver exceptional products and services to our customers.
Every day, 360 days a year, we handle over 1,300 orders, each meticulously selected, checked, packed, and dispatched by 6:00 am. Serving a diverse range of clients across the food service industry including hotels, restaurants, universities, schools, and events – we offer a comprehensive product line encompassing beef, pork, lamb, gammon, bacon, sausage, poultry and delicatessen items.
We responsibly source from a fully accredited, traceable global supply chain, boasting extensive experience in supplying over 3,000 products while maintaining the highest standards from farm to fork.
Recent years have seen significant investments in our facilities, including cutting-edge equipment and a state-of-the-art Training and Development Centre. We are also integrating advanced IT solutions to enhance our production processes.
These advancements enable us to provide our customers with flexible, customised solutions — a hallmark of our commitment and a source of great pride for our company.
Our philosophy
When you partner with Birtwistles, you receive more than just exceptional meat. We believe that through hard work, passion, and meticulous attention to detail, we can deliver a service that not only meets, but exceeds, your expectations.
Our ability to consistently fulfil our customers’ diverse needs is the cornerstone of our success. We take a proactive and adaptable approach to managing our business, distinguishing us in our field and enabling us to respond promptly to our customers’ requirements.
At the heart of our operations is a commitment to sourcing the finest meat products — from beef and pork to lamb, chicken, and more exotic selections. Our procurement team diligently ensures we always have the highest quality ingredients available, allowing us to fulfil orders promptly without compromising on quality.
Our ongoing investments in new facilities enhance our delivery capabilities, enabling us to reach more locations swiftly. Additionally, our commitment to advancing IT solutions and training initiatives streamlines our order processing and enhances our ability to provide tailored solutions efficiently.
Consistency is paramount to us. Rigorous procedures are in place to uphold our uncompromising standards. Each order is meticulously handpicked and quality-checked, ensuring our customers receive precisely what they expect.
A day at Birtwistles
It’s hard to explain exactly what goes on during a normal day here at Birtwistles without seeing it for yourself. This video will give you an insight into all the hard work that goes on between you placing your order and receiving it in your kitchen.
Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
We source responsibly from a fully accredited, traceable global supply chain, maintaining the highest standards from farm to fork. Our extensive product range, exceeding 3,000 items, reflects our dedication to quality and sustainability.
Recent investments in our facilities include modern equipment and a state-of-the-art Training and Development Centre. We are also implementing advanced IT solutions to enhance our production process, ensuring efficiency and precision.
At Birtwistles, sustainability and food safety are core values. We employ eco-friendly practices throughout our supply chain and are committed to reducing our environmental impact. Our rigorous food safety protocols, certified to the highest industry standards, ensure that our products are safe, healthy, and responsibly sourced.
We believe our team is our greatest asset. Continuous investment in training and development ensures we offer more flexible, bespoke solutions to our customers, setting us apart in the industry.
For a catering butcher that delivers a complete service and consistently meets your needs, choose Birtwistles.
Our Services
We’ve spent years refining our services by constantly listening to our customers and reacting to the ever-changing trends of our industry.
As you’d expect, we’re always willing to meet your unique requirements but here are some of the things that you can take advantage of when you work with us.
- Order today for delivery tomorrow
- Nationwide delivery service
- Livestock sourced UK wide
- Rigorously managed supply chain
- A comprehensive range of quality meats
- Our own product development team
- Unique sausage recipes
- Bespoke burger recipes
- Gammon and bacon uniquely cured in-house
- Fine dining preparation from dedicated butchers
- Seasonal specials
- Recipe development
- B2B EDI integration
- Market reports
- National and Regional Sales Managers
- Tailored reporting and invoicing
- Chef training and development programmes
- Meat cutting demonstrations
- Specific product workshops
- Menu launches and margin management
Contact Us
For a catering butcher that delivers a complete service and consistently meets your needs, choose Birtwistles. Contact us today!
Birtwistles is the choice for you… after all, we’re a lot more than just great meat!
