Tell us about CCS McLays
We are the leading provider of retail consumables, packaging and catering supplies for retail brands and high street food outlets. Since I founded the business in 2005, we’ve expanded our customer base through a global solution. We’re based in Cardiff, Wales and we employ 152 staff. Our customers include JD Sports, Clarks, Starbucks, Hugo Boss and Abercrombie & Fitch.
CCS McLays provides retailers and food outlets with their in-store essentials, including a plethora of product categories such as packaging, till rolls and janitorial supplies. We also strategically advise clients on ways to maximise business value from their core essentials and processes. From optimising products to processes for procurement, supply, logistics, and delivery.
What do you think makes this company unique?
We’re the only store consumables provider to offer those in the retail sector a truly tailored solution and we’re proud to have skilled retail experts to deliver this. Having great people is what differentiates us.
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What is your advice to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Firstly, stay true to what you believe in. Then surround yourself with a strong team, building up some strong allies. Listening to what customers really want is the most important lesson you’ll ever learn.
As well as being prepared to pivot and scale, as external market factors keep you on your toes. Overall, building a people-first organisation will help you to become resilient, innovative and agile.
What most excites you about CCS McLays?
The scale and agility of our service to meet retailers’ needs, from grocery to fashion to food brands. We are partnering with some of the biggest brands in the world. At CCS McLays, there is always something new to be pioneering and developing.
For instance, our new Seal2Go tamper-evident bags are improving customer experience for food delivery services. We’re also focusing on products that are not only better for business but for the planet.
How has the company evolved over the last couple of years?
We have evolved from a retail equipment business supplying UK stores to becoming a partner to retail and high street food establishments across the world. By considering all aspects, from how they source consumables to the number of deliveries they handle each week, stores can focus on some often-overlooked areas for productivity and significant cost saving gains.
What can we hope to see from CCS McLays in the future?
We’re making some exciting waves in the packaging arena as we help high street food outlets meet the regulations and the consumer pressure for tamper-evident delivery containers.
Our sustainability approach is an ongoing focus for the future, and we have plans to expand our global footprint while creating a stronger local UK hub – so watch this space!
