The Bühler Group has been recognised in two categories at the 2016 Nestlé Supplier Awards, which rewarded and celebrated its suppliers for their collaboration, service and support throughout 2015.

The nominations for Best Innovation and Supplier Quality recognised the companys contribution to support Nestlés UK strategy to delight customers with its high quality confectionery products, including its Fruit Pastilles, Fruit Gums, Pick & Mix and Tooty Fruity products, all made at its Fawdon plant in Newcastle upon Tyne.

The Best Innovation accolade recognised suppliers that helped differentiate Nestlé from its competitors, made a breakthrough collaboration and transformed Nestlé business operations by delivering operational efficiencies and bottom line savings.

The Supplier Quality award recognised suppliers that demonstrated a sustainable pipeline of innovation aligned to Nestlé UKs strategy. This includes proactively presenting innovation opportunities, challenging the status quo with a mindset and culture that puts quality first and delivering consistently excellent quality throughout 2015.

Charith Gunawardena, head of optical sorting, says, "Everyone at Bühler is proud that we are being recognised for driving innovation and consistently ensuring best in class quality at Nestlé. The Bühler Group has established a strong relationship with Nestlé. We work in partnership across many product divisions helping Nestlé meet the high quality expectations of both industry customers and, ultimately, consumers."