At the heart of Brakes lies a rich history of entrepreneurial spirit and a steadfast commitment to serving the foodservice industry, a journey that began over 60 years ago. Founded by the Brake brothers—Peter, William, and Frank—from the humble back room of a pub, the company has blossomed into the UK's leading foodservice wholesaler. This growth is not just a story of expansion, but a narrative of deep-seated values centered on understanding and anticipating customer needs. The company's culture is built on the legacy of its founders, who believed in going the extra mile, whether it was introducing revolutionary products like frozen chips or providing practical support like printing menus for their clients. This ethos of customer-centricity and innovation continues to permeate every facet of the organization, which now employs over 6,500 dedicated individuals across the nation.
Being part of the Sysco family, the world's largest foodservice company, has further amplified Brakes' ability to deliver excellence. This partnership provides access to unparalleled global resources, cutting-edge technology, and a vast network, ensuring financial stability and a competitive edge for its customers. The company's culture is one of continuous improvement and responsibility—to its customers, colleagues, shareholders, and the communities it serves. Brakes is deeply committed to sustainability and ethical practices, striving to make a positive impact on the environment and society. This is evident in their various initiatives, including their own charity, Meals & More, which tackles holiday hunger among children. The team at Brakes is a diverse and inclusive one, where every colleague is encouraged to bring their whole self to work. It's a place where quality, reliability, and trust are not just business principles, but the very ingredients of its success, fostering an environment where careers can flourish and individuals can make a real difference in feeding the nation.