Blas ar Fwyd is a prominent Welsh food company that has been specialising in quality Welsh foods and drinks since 1988. Located in Llanrwst, North Wales, Blas ar Fwyd offers a wide selection of Welsh produce, including cheeses, meats, bakery goods, and wines.
Blas ar Fwyd supplies fine Welsh food and drink throughout Wales and beyond and serves both public and trade customers: public customers through the wine shop, Welsh food shop and delicatessen and trade customers through their Welsh food wholesale and Welsh food distribution sites.
Osian Deiniol, Operations Manager and a member of the family, shares the journey of Blas ar Fwyd. Raised above the shop, Osian has witnessed the business's evolution firsthand. Recently, Blas ar Fwyd was honoured with the Federation of Small Business Family Business of the Year award in Wales, a testament to the values and dedication of a family-run enterprise. Osian proudly states, "It shows the values of a family business in Wales."
The growth of Blas ar Fwyd has been fuelled by a commitment to quality and a strong sense of community. The business thrives on personal connections, working closely with producers, shops, and customers across Wales. Osian emphasises, "We have grown because we’ve got a great deal of passion for the product, for food and drink in Wales and we do it with people in mind. We work with over 230 Welsh food and drink producers, providing a crucial route to market for many.”
Blas ar Fwyd boasts a diverse workforce of 60 to 65 employees, with teams based in Llanrwst, Swansea, and our Out & About remote workers. Osian says, “The company employs bakers, shop staff, drivers, customer service representatives, designers, data analysts, website managers, packaging experts, and new product developers. The variety of roles highlights the dynamic nature of the business and the numerous opportunities available within the industry.”
The Welsh food and drink community is a close-knit network of producers, suppliers and collaborators. The industry is both exciting and supportive, offering ample opportunities for growth and development. Osian encourages anyone interested in the Welsh food and drink industry to get involved, emphasising that there are always opportunities available, regardless of age or experience. He adds, "It’s a very rewarding industry, one which gives security and space for growth. There’s always an opportunity in the Welsh food industry to develop yourself as a person and as a professional.
“My message to anyone considering a career in the food and drink industry is that it is never too late, or never too early. There are always opportunities in every level and the opportunities created are excellent. So go for it!”
Blas ar Fwyd's success story is a testament to the rewards and security offered by the Welsh food industry. With a commitment to quality, community, and continuous learning, Blas ar Fwyd continues to thrive and inspire others to pursue their passion for food and drink.