Tregroes Waffles, located in Llandysul, Ceredigion, started in 1983 and has grown into an award-winning national business. Today, Tregroes Waffles is the UK’s only waffle bakery and is proudly employee-owned. The company is collaborating with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and Ceredigion County Council as part of their PACE Cymru initiative.
PACE Cymru helps businesses understand the latest technology, software, and digital options designed to save time, boost productivity, reduce waste, and ultimately increase profits.
Ray D’Arcy, Managing Director of Tregroes Waffles, is one of the PACE Cymru Sector Champions, ensuring that the project is aligned with the food and drink industry in the Ceredigion area (and Wales).
Here Ray discusses the project, the food and drink sector, and the uniqueness of being located in Ceredigion and Wales.
Challenges in the food and drink sector
There are many challenges, but staffing is a significant one. We are fortunate to be a community-based small business, but as we look to grow, staffing and training will become more challenging.
There is a skills gap that needs to be addressed.
Also, help in understanding the complexities of funding is another challenge. There are many funding avenues, but they are not always transparent and can be complicated.
Embracing technology
I am keen to understand more about futuristic technologies and their impact on our business. We are exploring robotics and constantly striving to improve our efficiency.
The manufacturing sector in Wales has seen big improvements in efficiency through the adoption of automation and advanced technologies. I read that businesses implementing digital technologies have experienced up to a 15% increase in productivity and a 10% reduction in waste. This highlights the importance of embracing innovation to stay competitive.
Benefits of upskilling and automation
Automation can be advantageous, as it allows us to upskill staff and move them to less repetitive tasks. This creates new employment opportunities and enhances job satisfaction. We work hard on increasing efficiency, but our team also know that there are limited areas where machines can replace humans.
The debate around AI and its integration into our processes is an ongoing one. It’s not just about adopting AI for the sake of it but understanding how AI in cameras and machines can tangibly benefit us.
Equally, upskilling ensures that our staff are better prepared for the future, increasing their value within the company, and boosting overall morale. Automation also leads to more consistent product quality and faster production times, which are pretty important in a competitive market.
The Welsh Government has recognised the need for upskilling in the manufacturing sector to meet the demands of new technologies and the transition to net zero.
An additional £2 million was invested in 2022-2023 to support individuals to upskill or reskill in sectors like construction, engineering, and manufacturing. This initiative also removed the eligibility cap on salary, making it more accessible for workers to gain industry-approved qualifications. This does help prepare the workforce for the future and ensuring the sector remains competitive.
Working with UWTSD
I am excited about three main aspects of our collaboration with UWTSD. Firstly, their assessment of our bakery operations and machinery processes as experts. Secondly, their insights into energy utilisation and how we can transfer energy more efficiently to benefit the business. Thirdly, exploring how innovation can impact our business, help us create new products, and even merchandise.
We are open-minded and keen to embrace innovation and creativity.
The uniqueness of Ceredigion and Wales
The community support we receive in Ceredigion and Wales is incredible. The food and drink sector here is vibrant, and there is immense pride in Welsh products, which makes us proud too.
It’s inspiring to see the community showcase their products and support each other. We are always eager to learn and see new possibilities.
I feel positive about working with the UWTSD team on PACE Cymru. The blend of industry experience and research expertise is invaluable, and we are excited about what they can bring to our business and similar businesses in Wales.
Richard Morgan, Interim Assistant Dean (Innovation & Engagement) at UWTSD said: “We’re honoured to be working with Ray and Tregroes Waffles on the PACE Cymru project. His experience and knowledge will be invaluable to other food and drink businesses in Ceredigion and beyond. It is also exciting to be analysing their own digital needs. We are grateful to Ray for being part of our team.”
Councillor Clive Davies, Cabinet member for Economy and Regeneration at Ceredigion County Council said : “This collaboration exemplifies the innovative spirit and community focus that defines Ceredigion. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and fostering skills development, we are not only supporting local businesses like Tregroes Waffles but also ensuring that our region remains competitive and resilient in the face of future challenges.
“The success of Tregroes Waffles as an employee-owned business is a testament to the strength of our local economy and the dedication of our workforce. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative on the food and drink sector in Ceredigion and beyond.
“PACE Cymru has received financial support from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund which is administrated by the Cynnal y Cardi team for Ceredigion County Council.”
Ray D’Arcy will be with the PACE Cymru team on October 17 supporting a drop-in digital clinic for local businesses. There will be 1-2-1 talks with the UWTSD team and technology demos.
17th October, 10am-12pm and 2pm – 4pm at Food Centre Wales, Horeb, Llandysul SA44 4JG.
Please email MADE@uwtsd.ac.uk for information or to book a place.
The PACE Cymru project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Partnered with Ceredigion County Council and UWTSD.
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