3663 First For Foodservice has taken back the £100m-a-year Burger King contract it was to lose to DHL in July.

Burger King had given notice that it was to switch distribution to DHL but 3663 convinced the fast food operator to reverse its decision. 3663’s excellent delivery record in spite of the heavy snow this winter helped it to retain the business, it claimed.

“We were due to complete the contract on 30 June this year but have been in continuous talks with Burger King since the start of the notice period,” said 3663 logistics MD Andrew Selley.

“A number of factors contributed to the final decision but the Burger King team was particularly impressed with the service we were able to maintain during the adverse weather conditions,” he added. “Securing the new deal is a testament to the dedication and service ethic of every member of staff who works on this account.”

3663 and Burger King have worked together for the past 15 years and the new contract will extend this relationship for a further three years, he added.

The company has also won a multimillion-pound contract to be the principal supplier of food and non-food products to hospital caterer ISS Facility Services Healthcare.

The contract successes are welcome news for 3663, which has seen operating profits decline by 30% in the past year as the recession prompted people to eat out less and companies to tighten catering budgets.

“The Burger King contract is a big deal for 3663,” said one wholesaler. “It would have been a big chunk of their business gone if they had lost it.”

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