Bringing the best Canterbury chicken from farm to table – Cantab Gourmet Chicken
Cold, wintery days are perfect for a Sunday roast, and what could be better than a fresh, locally sourced roast chicken? Known for being Canterbury’s premium chicken processors and suppliers, Cantab Gourmet Chicken works closely with over 100 local businesses from restaurants and catering companies to butcheries and care homes. They also have a factory retail shop in Christchurch at 325 Westminster Street.
Determined to supply only the best products, Cantab Gourmet Chicken sources their chicken from Ingham’s, which is all halal and SPCA certified. “They have a good reputation, a good brand, and their philosophies and processes align with ours,” Ian Edwards, General Manager, explains. But that’s not all that sets Cantab Gourmet Chicken apart. Their focus on professional cutting, high quality packaging, stocking a range of chicken products, and their quick deliveries around Christchurch only add value for customers.
Having owned several bars and restaurants, Ian has a thorough understanding of what his customers look for. “It’s all about quality chicken, a great range of products, and everything being delivered on time, every time,” Ian says. “Our policy is that if you order by 7 AM, you’ll get your chicken the same day.”
Ian bought the business in early 2022. Since then, Cantab Gourmet Chicken have rebranded, seen a 40% growth in sales, and in an innovative move to expand their product line, they recently purchased a Steen boning machine from Belgium. “It bones chicken thighs and makes tulip or lollipop chicken from drumsticks,” Ian explains. “It’s the only one in the Southern Hemisphere, and it allows us to offer a product no one else can because it’s simply too labour expensive without the machine. Normally, it would take a butcher 30 minutes to produce five kilos of lollipops. However, we can do it in about five minutes.” Ian sees this product as being especially useful for catering companies and event specialists for use in entrées due to the unique form factor and lack of bones.
Purchasing the machine required a significant capital investment, which led Ian to discuss the opportunity with Glen White, Director at Leech & Partners, before purchasing. “Glen and the team helped us with a feasibility study and made it an easy decision,” Ian says. “As a business owner, it’s good to have someone like Glen and the team behind you to know you’re making an informed decision.”
Ian has been working with Leech & Partners since 2009. From costing spreadsheets and everyday tax compliance to strategic advice, Glen White and the team have been invaluable in helping Ian’s businesses run smoothly and effectively. “Working with Leech & Partners is fantastic. They’re always there to help, at the end of the phone to talk ideas through and come back with sound, logical advice.”
