John Forteith, general manager of Forteith Foodservice in Oban, has joined the SWA Council.

He joins the Council as a replacement for Norman Wemyss, a past-president of the Association and 3663's managing director (Scotland and North).

Earlier this year, Bidvest, through its 3663 subsidiary, acquired Forteith Foodservice which continues to operate under the same name from its Oban base. The companies have had a trading link for many years, with Forteith undertaking some distribution for 3663.

Kate Salmon, SWA executive director, commented: "Norman felt that John would be able to give more time than he is able to, and I would like to thank him for his invaluable contribution to the Association since joining the Council in 2003.

"In particular, he was an excellent president from 2006 to 2008, when he was responsible for increasing our focus on effective training for our members."

Speaking enthusiastically about the SWA, John said: "I am delighted to be involved in what is a truly unique Association. The SWA has contributed to the development of Forteith Foodservice since joining as a private business in 2008, and I am sure it will continue to do so as part of the Bidvest Food Service Group.

"Nowhere will you find an organisation that so successfully mixes together suppliers and competitor wholesalers in the pursuit of world-leading industry standards, collaboration, lobbying, training and networking.

"I very much look forward to working with the rest of the SWA Council over the coming months."