“We are delighted Melissa has joined SGS, her proven experience in the UK food industry and dynamism will further drive our expanding portfolio of services supporting this key sector within UK industry” – James McGurk, Managing Director of SGS United Kingdom Limited.
Introduce yourself
Melissa Lane, Business Manager for the UK Food business at SGS. I joined SGS in September 2023, bringing 30 years' experience in the testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) sector. Specifically, within environmental, water hygiene and food testing, in a career that has seen me perform research and development, as well as project management and general management roles.
How would you describe the overall approach and philosophy of SGS when it comes to service delivery and partnering with clients?
We take a comprehensive and customer-centric approach, rooted in ensuring food safety, quality, and sustainability. We build strong partnerships with clients by understanding their specific needs and goals, enabling us to provide tailored solutions to enhance food safety practices, improve product quality, and achieve compliance with international standards.
What differentiates SGS expertise and services?
We stand out due to our comprehensive range of services covering the entire food supply chain, including testing, advisory, certification, and training. As part of the SGS Group, we have access to a global network of experts and laboratories, combining local expertise with international best practices. Our deep industry knowledge, commitment to quality and safety, utilization of cutting-edge technology, and accreditation by relevant bodies ensuring reliable and trustworthy services.
Can you highlight any unique or specialized services that SGS provides to the Food sector?
We offer several unique and specialised services such as the application of state-of-the-art molecular solutions, from Multi-Locus Sequence Typing (MLST) to Whole Genome Sequencing for bacterial strain typing. We are the only Food Testing laboratory in the UK providing this service. This type of analysis accurately identifies bacterial strains, tracks their spread and evolution, and provides detailed genetic diversity information. This aids in outbreak investigations, contamination source identification, and targeted control measures.
Finally, what message would you like to convey to potential clients about SGS and the value it can bring to their businesses?
SGS is a trusted partner bringing immense value to businesses through extensive experience, global presence, and a diverse range of services. Commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability ensures regulatory compliance and customer satisfaction. Tailored solutions, expertise, and innovative technologies optimize operations, mitigate risks, and drive efficiency. By partnering with SGS, businesses gain a reliable ally dedicated to their long-term success, ensuring the quality, safety, and sustainability of their products and operations.
Kimberley Collier
Marketing, Health & Nutrition
Phone: +44 (0) 1513 506 666
About SGS
We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 98,000 employees operate a network of 2,650 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.
Inward Way,
Rossmore Business Park, CH65 3EN,
Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, United Kingdom