Building Bonds

While Young says not all suppliers stood the test, he says the company now enjoys “a shuffled deck of suppliers of raw materials for our production plant, finished goods for our distribution centre, and people that service us, whether it be our IT and computer systems, our delivery trucks or our warehouse and packaging equipment. We’ve become more knowledgeable buyers and it’s enhanced our bottom line and given us stability at a time when I think most companies of our size are probably experiencing some real challenges. We do have the support of customers that we have built a relationship with over time, and that’s highly valued. The relationship I have with my long-term staff is what seals the deal.

Without the quality staff and without the customers who view relationship selling as important, we really wouldn’t be here today.”

In fact, despite the current economic downturn, Young says the company is already contemplating adding an evening shift, maximizing its processing opportunities and making its plant operable 24 hours. It is also seeking possible industry partners able to supply value-added, ready-to-eat product lines, a category Young says is still a void in To-Le-Do’s product spectrum. “And unlike other companies our size we will go east, west or south and hold meetings, do plant tours and discuss partnering with different suppliers,” he adds.

Building and maintaining those bonds with suppliers and customers through constant communication, including frequent face-to-face meetings, and being consistent in its high standards and performance, is what Young says sets the company apart in the often over-serviced meat industry. “The other thing is that we enjoy what we do. When you become a meathead you end up a meathead forever,” smiles Young. “And we are meatheads – we enjoy what it’s all about and we know the learning curve continues to spike. And I think that sets us apart. We’re a different kind of a breed.”