The JD Cooling Group is proud to be an Associate Member of the Cold Chain Federation, which is leading the way in educating people on the importance of the temperature-controlled supply chain in the UK. We’re looking forward to being part of its mission and to tackling the issues faced by the cold chain together.

Find out more about the Cold Chain Federation here.

The JD Cooling Group has recently welcomed a new hybrid van and electric Tesla to its vehicle fleet.

 

The new additions join a 75-strong pre-existing fleet and as it continues to bolster its green credentials, the Group is looking to fully transition to a combination of hybrid and electric vehicles over the next 12-24 months. While Hybrid cars already form some of the fleet, the new van is the first and only for the business.

 

The JD Cooling Group already strives to provide greener solutions for its customers and a fleet built completely of greener vehicles is one of their long-term goals. The introduction of more hybrid and electric vehicles is certainly a step towards this.

 

Richard Corby, Group Operations Director at JD Cooling Group commented:

“We are proud to have a 75-strong fleet, however the number of vehicles we have carries a huge environmental responsibility. When it comes to our customers, our suppliers, and the public, we as a business take the impact we have on the environment very seriously. We will all benefit from an eco-friendly world, but none more so than the next generation. Right now, we are determining what the world will look like for the children of the future, and that’s why we are committed to doing our bit now. Hopefully, we can all look forward to a greener future.”

 

The Group is working towards its vision of rolling out further hybrid and electric vehicles in 2022, with the view to installing increased charging points at each of its offices. They also admirably aim to have a fleet of fully electric vans within the next five years.

JD Cooling Group launches relationships with its three nominated 2021 charity partners. Chosen by employees of the business, Glasgow-based Catherine McEwan Foundation, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), and the One-to-One Project in King’s Lynn will be the beneficiaries of this special Christmas treat, with the £10,000 divided evenly.

 

With bases in Fife, headquarters in King’s Lynn, and offices across the UK, JD Cooling Group will support each organisation throughout 2021 with a year-long calendar of fundraising activities.

 

Now in its second year, this annual CSR programme selects and gives thanks to charities that have provided personal support to JD Cooling employees and/or their family and friends.

 

Julie Stokes, Business Development Manager (Scotland), nominated the Catherine McEwan Foundation as they continue to help her daughter, Georgia Stokes (12), as part of her treatment at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, where the Foundation works closely with the Paediatric Gastro Team. The Catherine McEwan Foundation exists to ensure that people in Scotland and beyond suffering from Crohn’s, Colitis or other inflammatory bowel disease has access to the best healthcare.

 

 

Derek McEwan, Chief Executive of the Catherine McEwan Foundation said, “I’ve been lucky enough to meet Georgia Stokes and it means the world to us that the family thought of the Catherine McEwan Foundation when mum Julie’s employers were looking to choose the charities to support. We are delighted the Stokes family feel we have been a support to them and are here to help in any way we can in future.

 

We are absolutely blown away by this incredible gesture from JD Cooling Group, especially in this difficult year. With this donation, JD Cooling Group have really helped us end 2020 with a smile – thank you so much.”

 

Like many other organisations, the Foundation has had to adapt during the pandemic, especially with many patients like Georgia Stokes having to shield. This calls for necessary investment at a time when an important source of income, conventional fundraising events, have been cancelled due to restrictions because of Covid-19.

 

JDRF is a national charity that funds Type 1 diabetes research with the aim of one day eradicating the disease; One to One Project was established to provide professional support to adults in West Norfolk experiencing emotional and/or social distress and mental health difficulties.

 

Debbie Regan, Project Manager, One to One Project: “We have seen an increase in referrals since the first lockdown and have been working tirelessly to ensure the smooth conversion and continuity of our service. As a charity, we rely on public support and this very kind donation from JD Cooling Group will allow us to continue to provide help for an increasing number of adults in West Norfolk. The pandemic has caused anxiety and uncertainty and we are proud to be able to provide as much support as we can during these challenging times.”

 

John Dye, Group Chairman of JD Cooling, adds, “We’re fortunate in that our business has been more resilient than most in a really tough year, but we know many others have been hard hit. So, we felt it only appropriate to give thanks to those that have continued to work tirelessly with a £10,000 donation to three fantastic charities who have supported some of our employees personally. We applaud the work of these organisations and will continue our support with raising funds and awareness for these charity partners throughout 2021.”

 

In the first year of this CSR partnership programme, from April 2019 – April 2020, JD Cooling raised a total of £3,970.11, more than doubling the original target of £1,500, for West Norfolk Self Advocacy Project (SAP), Little Discoverers West Norfolk School for Parents (WNSfP), and Neuroblastoma UK.

 

 

David Richards from West Norfolk Self Advocacy Project commented on the donation, “We are very grateful to receive a donation from JD Cooling. This donation will make a significant difference to our work, which is all done by volunteers. The weekly sessions will remain closed for the foreseeable future but the work of one to one visits, providing support and advice on health, housing, debt and money management will continue. Of particular effort is the unique SAP programme of training members to attain the skills for realistic decision making.

 

We can also now look to buying a new telephone which will be internet ready, to be able to increase the amount of one-to-one work done by our lead volunteer and to continue the monthly get together s out in the parks and countryside around west Norfolk. This ensures that members make contact with each other and with the SAP volunteers whilst ensuring everyone talks about and practices healthy socialisation.

 

SAP has enjoyed the support of JD Cooling, an international refrigeration company based in Kings Lynn. Members of their staff volunteer their personal time and efforts to support SAP and individual members. Sap has had the great pleasure of being invited to attend JD Cooling events were we were asked to speak about our work and we received much enthusiastic support and comments from the company, especially from Sam and JD themselves. Whilst money is important the enthusiastic vocal support has meant a lot to all of us at SAP and has been a real emotional boost and validation of our working methods.

 

In March 2020 the group leaders made the decision to close the group sessions due to the Corvid 19 pandemic and on the advice issued by Public Health England. This decision caused the loss of approximately £1000 revenue.

 

For many years now SAP has depended on donations and self generated finance raising schemes primary through members each paying £5 per week for each session. Member financed sessions raise approximately £1,900 per annum. The actual annual amount fluctuated through members missing sessions, sessions being cancelled due to illness or to exceptionally bad weather. These session charges have remained the same for the last five years. Concurrently all costs have risen particularly the costs of postage, stationery, telephone and petrol over the same period.

 

Once again we all wish to say a huge thank you for the financial support we have received from JD Cooling and the very welcome and appreciated personal contact from this pioneering company.”

 

The 2021 programme will run from January – December with updates on fundraising activities and opportunities to support announced on JD Cooling’s news page.

Congratulations to Greg Williamson for raising over £2,000 for the Mental Health Foundation by climbing ten of Scotland’s Munros (mountains) and spending 100 days alcohol free.

 

 

Starting on the 27^th July and finishing on 4^th November, Greg, who is a refrigeration engineer at JD Cooling Scotland was joined by former JD Cooling engineer Josh Collins and friend Douglas in climbing Schiehallion, Ben More, Mayar, Driesh, Beinn Ghlas, Ben Lawers, Meall Nan Tarmachan, Carn Aosda, Carn a’ Gheoidh and The Cairnwell.

 

The money raised will make a huge difference in supporting the fantastic work the Mental Health Foundation provides for people – their mission – to help people understand, protect, and sustain their mental health with a vision of good mental health for all.

 

Greg, based at JD Cooling’s Fife office said of the challenge, “The Mental Health Foundation is such a great charity, and it was a pleasure to get the opportunity to raise money for them. The challenge was tough, but it was worth it.

 

I would recommend to anyone who has thought about doing something like this is to go for it – great views and wildlife was an added benefit to the whole challenge. Thank you to everyone that contributed.”

 

 

On behalf of everyone at JD Cooling Group, we would like to say a massive well done and thank you to Greg for raising vital funds and the profile of the Mental Health Foundation. With 2020 being a difficult year, now is even more important to take time to look after your own mental wellbeing, as well as supporting others that may be struggling.

 

If you are concerned that you are developing a mental health problem, or know someone that needs help, please seek the advice and support of your GP as a matter of priority. If you are in distress and need immediate help and are unable to see a GP, you should visit your local A&E.

 

Other ways to find help:

• Find a counsellor to help you deal with your feelings or make a fresh start – HealthShield (for JD Cooling Group employees) offer confidential support 24/7 on 0800 028 1963. The helpline offers practical information and emotional support for issues relating to family, bereavement, trauma, relationships, stress-related, personal legal information, tax information, medical information, money management, alcohol/drugs, and debt support. Following your conversation over the phone with a Counsellor, they may recommend face-to-face counselling sessions. Up to eight are available to you, per issue, in any 12-month period starting from the first session. It also includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
• Contact the Samaritans for emotional support 24 hours a day – in full confidence – call for free – 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.uk.
• A.L.M.: National helpline for men to talk about any troubles they are feeling. Call 0800 58 58 58 (UK). They are available 5pm-midnight 365 days a year.
• For support in a crisis text Shout to 85258
• Call the Mind Infoline on 0300 123 3393 (UK landline calls are charged at local rates, and charges from mobile phones will vary considerably). Or email info@mind.org.uk.
• Speak to your GP
• You may find it helpful to talk to your partner, a relative or a friend about your problems. They may be concerned about you and welcome the opportunity to hear what you have to say. If this is not possible, you may prefer to talk to someone else you can trust.

 

Alternatively visit Mental Health Foundation’s website where they provide a number of resources for looking after your mental health. You can also make a donation to the charity, which will go a long way in helping them champion good mental health for all.

Happy National Cherry Day to all the fantastic British cherry growers who are doing an amazing job to ensure we get to enjoy quality fresh cherries this summer.

 

Throughout the day we will be sharing some ‘cool’ facts about this beloved and juicy stone fruit.

 

And our first ‘cool’ fact of the day is:

 

Cherries are packed with nutrients, particularly fibre, vitamin C and potassium. They are also rich in antioxidants, melatonin, and anti-inflammatory compounds.

 

So, when you’re treating yourself to a scrumptious cherry pie to celebrate National Cherry Day you can do so without feeling guilty.

 

Here’s one of the many gorgeous cherry pie recipes out there using British cherries. https://www.berrygardens.co.uk/british-cherries/cherry-and-bay-pie/

 

Cherry Fact Two

The expression “to cherry pick”, meaning to select only the best, dates back only to the 60’s.

 

So, when you’re next doing your food shopping, take a look at the packaging before buying to be sure ‘to cherry pick’ cherries that have been grown by our amazing British cherry growers. https://britishgrowers.org/our-members/

 

Cherry Fact Three

The English word “cherry” comes from Old Northern French or Normal “cherise” from the Latin “cerasum,” referring to an ancient Greek region, Kerasous, near Giresun, Turkey, from which cherries were first thought to be exported to Europe.

 

Cherry Fact Four

Cherries are best paired with herbs like sage, chives, and verbena; dairy products like sweet cream and ricotta cheese; and with meats like pork and beef especially when black pepper is added. https://www.greatbritishchefs.com/ingredients/cherry-recipes

Cherry Fact Five

What is the best post-harvest cooling method to lock in the freshness and quality from field to fork?

• Rapid chill (ideally with high humidity). Hydrocooling is best – removing field heat from the crop. The result is low, uniform crop temperatures and vastly enhanced quality.
• Cherries should ideally then be stored between -1^OC to 0^OC over 95% R.H (relative humidity) – resulting in a life span of around 2 to 4 weeks.
• Depending on when the product is harvested, Controlled Atmosphere Storage (CA) is another option to consider.

 

Want to know more, please visit: https://www.jdcooling.com/contact/

 

Cherry Fact Six

Cherries were introduced into England at Teynham, near Sittingbourne in Kent, by order of Henry VIII, who had tasted them in Flanders.

 

Wow, and now the UK is home to so many fantastic cherry growers with farms throughout the UK, who are working tirelessly to bring fresh and quality cherries from field to fork.

 

So, here’s a virtual high five and massive thank you from everyone at JD Cooling Group.

 

We are pleased to announce that JD Cooling has now become an official Achilles FPAL registered supplier to the oil and gas sector.

 

As part of the rigours process, JD Cooling was assessed and required to demonstrate capabilities in a number of areas including:

• Products and services
• Financial performance
• Quality procedures
• Health and safety procedures
• Environmental processes
• Competence & Training

 

This accreditation has further confirmed JD Cooling’s commitment in delivering the highest of standards and quality of work, as well as providing our customers with the confidence to trust in our services.

 

You can view the certification here.

 

About Achilles FPAL

Operators and Contractors view their supply chain as an integral extension of their organisations, and strive for a transparent and efficient collaboration with best in class suppliers. The Achilles FPAL community helps to create business opportunities for suppliers in a collaborative, neutral environment whilst ensuring compliance to industry standards and reducing risks across the supply chain for buying organisations.

 

Achilles FPAL identifies, evaluates and provides pre-qualification information about suppliers on behalf of major buyers in oil & gas.

 

Lower oil & gas prices have put a renewed focus on the need to control cost and increase industry collaboration. Achilles FPAL makes a key contribution on both these important issues.

Established in 1996 by the UK oil & gas industry, FPAL was formed following an industry initiative known as CRINE (Cost Reduction in the New Era) which recommended the need for improved supply chain efficiencies and development of a centralised system which provides standardised information and helps to reduce procurement costs by 30%.

The Achilles FPAL community now serves the procurement needs of the wider European oil & gas market, whilst maintaining firm roots within North Sea operations with an industry based Steering Committee of Operators, Contractors and suppliers working in collaboration to promote a fair and transparent supply chain.

As Achilles FPAL expands throughout Europe, Operators in the Netherlands have formed the Dutch Purchaser User Group (DPUG) and developed an effective and collaborative approach towards the use of Achilles FPAL within their own supply chains and this is shared by a Common Policy Statement.

JD Cooling Group, the UK’s leading independent supplier of bespoke cooling, industrial refrigeration, ripening, power and automation control systems, employ the latest technology in support of Scotland’s leading suppliers of haggis, neeps and tatties, the ingredients for a Burns Night celebration supper.

 

1,750 tonnes of haggis, 35,000,000 swedes and quality potatoes are supplied each year by JD Cooling’s partners the award-winning producer Macsween Haggis of Edinburgh, Stewarts of Tayside, UK’s largest grower of swede, and Albert Bartlett, UK’s leading supplier of potatoes. Beyond Scotland, haggis and veggie crumble are distributed by Macsween each year to countries as far as Singapore, Dubai and Canada, a country which orders over £25,000 worth of haggis in January in time for Burns Night.

 

JD Cooling ensures the smooth running of all three’s operations with ongoing maintenance support, “Traditional produce are high-tech businesses. Sometimes we can forget what is behind such humble ingredients. To ensure that our partners can operate as effectively as possible and the sheer volume of produce can reach our dinner tables, we invest heavily in the latest innovations. This allows us to foresee and identify any issues at a moment’s notice, at times ahead of our clients who are onsite,” explains Ross Hynd, Scottish Regional Manager.

 

Hynd continues, “We understand the importance of clear communication in any relationship and have invested in the latest technological developments to ensure our customers have real time information on the status of call outs and have access to all relevant paperwork as quickly as possible.”