An Interview Christian Paynton, CEO of United Fresh.
United Fresh has been working with hotels for nearly two decades. Can you tell us about your first client and how that shaped the business?
Absolutely. Our journey began 18 years ago when we partnered with a major UK hotel chain, which remains one of our most valued clients today. From the start, they saw the potential in what we offer—a streamlined, reliable supply chain that delivers fresh, high-quality ingredients without the complexities of managing multiple local suppliers.
That partnership was a turning point. It proved that hotels don’t have to sacrifice quality for efficiency or sustainability for convenience. The fact that they have stayed with us for nearly two decades speaks volumes. We don’t just supply ingredients; we become an extension of their team, ensuring their kitchens run smoothly every day.
How does United Fresh simplify procurement for hotel kitchens?
Running a hotel kitchen means juggling multiple food categories, tight schedules, changing menus, and guest preferences—all while maintaining efficiency. Traditionally, that meant dealing with multiple suppliers, invoices, and points of contact, adding hours of admin to an already demanding workload.
With United Fresh, we streamline the entire process. Hotels receive one invoice and one dedicated account manager, eliminating unnecessary admin. Whether it’s fresh produce, meat, seafood, dairy, baked goods, or dry ingredients, our trusted network of local suppliers ensures everything is delivered with consistency and care. This allows our clients to focus on what truly matters—their guests.
Sustainability is a big focus for the hospitality industry. How does United Fresh help hotels meet their environmental goals?
We’re committed to responsible, local sourcing, ensuring ingredients travel shorter distances. Across the UK, our suppliers are, on average, just 29 miles from depot to kitchen, reducing food miles and emissions while keeping ingredients fresher for longer.
But sustainability isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why we work in partnership with our clients, helping them find practical ways to meet their sustainability targets without compromising on quality or efficiency. Whether it’s sourcing more seasonal produce, reducing food waste, or supporting local producers, we tailor our approach to align with each hotel’s unique objectives.
What’s next for United Fresh and its partnership with hotels?
Our goal remains the same, helping hotels run smoother, smarter, and more sustainably. We’re constantly evolving, expanding our supplier network, and introducing new ways to support our clients.
One thing that won’t change is our commitment to long-term relationships. Our first client believed in us 18 years ago, and they still do today. That loyalty drives us to keep delivering the very best, ensuring every hotel we work with receives the same trust, reliability, and quality that have been our foundation from the start.
For nearly two decades, we’ve helped hotels streamline procurement, source the best local ingredients, and achieve their sustainability goals.
Let’s see how we can do the same for you. Visit www.unitedfresh.co.uk to learn more.