TOP CATERING BUTCHER RELOCATES TO NEW PREMISES IN HERTFORDSHIRE WITH SUPPORT FROM HSBC UK
IMS of Smithfield Expands Operations with New Hertfordshire Facility Backed by HSBC UK
One of London’s best-known catering butchers, IMS of Smithfield, is moving its operations to a new 32,000 sq ft site in Hertfordshire following a £1.5 million funding package from HSBC UK.
The relocation marks a major milestone for the business, which has supplied premium meat products to restaurants, hotels, schools and workplaces across London and the Home Counties for more than half a century.
The move from Camden to Hertfordshire is designed to meet growing demand while improving production capacity, logistics and sustainability. The funding will cover a full fit-out of the facility, including energy-efficient refrigeration, automated weighing systems, and advanced butchery and packaging equipment aimed at driving consistency and efficiency.
Innovation at the heart of tradition
At the centre of the expansion is a newly built Innovation Centre featuring a high-spec development kitchen for creating new meat and poultry ranges, including innovative 50/50 hybrid products that blend plant and animal proteins.
The space will also house a saltwall dry-aged maturation chiller for premium beef and lamb, and will include state-of-the-art AV conferencing systems to support collaboration with clients both onsite and remotely.
Managing Director Christian Raggio described the move as a transformative moment for the business.
“This relocation marks a defining moment in IMS of Smithfield’s journey,” he said. “It’s more than just a move — it’s an investment in innovation, sustainability, and the future of British catering butchery. The new facility will allow us to push the boundaries of product development, strengthen our partnerships, and deliver even greater value to our customers. We’re incredibly grateful to Craig and the team at HSBC UK for their continued support and belief in our long-term vision.”
The relocation is expected to increase production, logistics and storage capacity by around 50%, paving the way for significant turnover growth within the next two years. The company also plans to create new roles across production, logistics and product development as operations scale up.
Banking on sustainable growth
The funding was arranged through HSBC UK’s Commercial Banking division. Relationship Manager Craig Wallace said the partnership reflects HSBC’s commitment to supporting established businesses that embrace innovation and environmental responsibility.
“IMS of Smithfield is a great example of a business that’s combining a traditional industry with forward-thinking technology and innovation,” Wallace said. “We’re proud to support its expansion and help the business invest in a facility that will not only boost efficiency but also support its sustainability goals.”
With the move, IMS of Smithfield aims to reinforce its reputation as one of the UK’s leading catering butchers while setting new standards for modern, sustainable meat production.
