FAQs
We are a fully integrated Food Business, processing Scotch Beef and Certified Aberdeen Angus Beef.
Is AK Stoddart a 'family' business?
We are very proud of the fact we are an independently owned business. Our Managing Director Neil Stoddart descends from the founding family. However, we are not a 'small business', we are run professionally with very high standards, we are currently ranked within the top four beef processing companies in Scotland.
Who are your customers?
AK Stoddart's customer portfolio includes major multiple retailers, further manufacturers and foodservice providers.
How do I get to the primal processing plant?
From Newbridge roundabout (on the A8 on the western outskirts of Edinburgh)
(Main intersection of M8 &M9)
Take A89 (signposted Broxburn & Bathgate)
Approx. 1.5 Miles you will come to a roundabout
Take second exit (signposted Broxburn)
As soon as you come off the roundabout turn first right at traffic lights (30 yards from roundabout)
You are now in East Mains Industrial Estate
Follow road to roundabout (150 yards)
Straight over roundabout
We are the third factory on your right hand side (next door to Brake Bros.)
How many staff do you employ?
Approximately 200.
Do you operate your own transport?
Yes. We also utilise 3rd party distributors on a contract basis.
How long has the company been in operation?
We have been operating since 1959.
How many sites are there?
Our Head Office and main Boning and Processing site is in Broxburn with our Abattoir in Ayr. Added Value processing takes place in Aberdeenshire.
Why should I speak to AK Stoddart rather than another beef processing company?
We are rated in the top four beef processing companies in Scotland and our mission statement is to procure, process and supply premium quality meat products to our valued customers at the right time, to the right standard and at the right price EVERY TIME.
How can you guarantee that hygiene standards are upheld?
AK Stoddart, operates to a defined Quality Management System and is currently Grade A BRC (British Retail Consortium Standard) approved at all its related sites. This system ensures that all premises operate to high levels of hygiene, management control, staff training, process and practice controls. We receive regular inspections from official bodies such as MHS (Meat Hygiene Services) and third party accreditation organisations. We are also regularly audited by all our major customers.
Are you BRC approved?
Yes we are Grade A BRC approved at all sites.
Is training provided for staff?
Yes all new staff receive a full induction programme including food hygiene training followed by ongoing training on specific tasks according to the in-house training manual. There is the opportunity to take an SVQ level2, Meat Training Council Meat Safety Course as well as host of other training. Training for all staff is then ongoing specific to individuals' needs.
How do you know the origin of your beef?
Through the combination of our own procurement, an advanced computer based traceability system and the BCMS (British Cattle Movement Society) database.
Which geographical markets do you supply??
Across the UK and Europe.
What trade bodies are you associated with?
Quality Meat Scotland, Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers, Certified Aberdeen Angus Society, British Retail Consortium, Meat Training Council, The Industrial Society, The Work Foundation, British Safety Council and many more.
Do you have your own laboratory?
Yes, we operate an in-house QA facility which incorporates fat analysis. All mocrobiological, nutritional and other analysis is outsourced to a UKAS accredited laboratory.
What is Castle Brae?
Castle Brae ® is an experience of indulgence that combines the flavour and succulence of premium beef with the purity and traditional beauty of Scotland.
As a potential customer or supplier, can I get access to your processing plant and/or abattoir?
We operate an open door policy with our customers and our suppliers and would be delighted should you wish to pay us a visit. Please see contact details – simply get in touch!
Do you have an Environmental Policy?
Yes, we have carried out several waste minimisation programs and are actively working on several climate change projects.
Do you operate any schemes with education bodies?
Yes we have had great success with Graduate into Food Business. We have carried out 2 STEP projects for waste minimisation with University Students and combined with Edinburgh University in 2002 to set a commercial project for MBA students. We have also carried out a schools challenge for 2nd year pupils at Linlithgow Academy.