The founder of Antrim-based Interfrigo, the largest independent cold storage operator in the north, has been recognised with the outstanding contribution accolade at the annual Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association’s (NIFDA) annual awards.
Ross Reed OBE (79) was described as “a leader whose contribution is far reaching, not in the local food and drink sector, but for Northern Ireland Plc”.
NIDFA chair Professor Ursula Lavery said: “He has a knack for staying composed when it matters most, for consistency and creativity, driving the industry forward – and has also been instrumental to bringing our politicians round the table and the restoration of the Stormont Executive.
“His influence has been critical at moments of crisis. In the past five years alone, he has been influential in finding solutions at pivotal moments, such as ensuring the smooth supply chain movement during Covid, resolving difficulties with Irish Sea transport in 2022, or getting the Windsor Framework over the line.
“But that only scratches the surface of the contribution Ross has made since founding his business in 1973. He really is the man who keeps our industry cool.”
She added: “Under his leadership, Interfrigo has grown into a nationally significant business sitting at the heart of Northern Ireland’s food distribution, home to one of the most modern and energy-efficient cold stores in the UK.
“His impact on the Northern Ireland economy is reflected in his decades of ongoing investment, job creation, market leadership and building supply chain resilience, all of which have boosted our industry’s reputation nationally and internationally.
“Throughout his five decades of service to our industry, Ross has been a true champion of the eating ecosystem, shaping our past, strengthening our present and inspiring our future.”
In its last full trading year Interfrigo – which has a staff of around 80 – increased sales by 10.5% from just under £10 million to more than £11m.
It had a retained profit of £608,653, and is currently sitting of assets of nearly £9.4m.
