Crystaltech MD Appointed
Top-Level Role as ceda Chair

Warewashing industry expert Derek Maher has been officially appointed as ceda’s new Chair at this year’s prestigious ceda Conference & Awards. Following his inauguration at the ceda AGM, Derek began his official Chair duties with the presentation of several awards including the ceda Supplier Awards and ceda Grand Prix Awards.

Ceda represents the most professional catering equipment distributors and service providers in the UK who adhere to the ceda Customer Charter and the ceda Code of Good Practice. Its growing membership is made up 111 companies and 49 partner companies which are specialists in design, installation, service-support, training and equipment for the foodservice, catering and hospitality industry, with latest figures showing an impressive combined turnover of £650m!

Derek’s new role will include representing ceda at member events, overseeing fundraising and the support that ceda provides to its members to help them achieve and give them a competitive edge.

“With a background in marine engineering, major projects and industrial metallurgy my wife Maxine and I formed the basis of Crystaltech from our garage with myself as the first (and only) engineer. From that perspective I am able to understand the challenges that face ceda members of all sizes.

I have been an active member of ceda since 2003 and have been part of the ceda Technical Steering Group for several years and seen first-hand how that has helped to improve industry standards and our membership. In the role as ceda Chair, I hope to build on the links that I have with other associations and institutions to the benefit of our growing ceda membership and the industry as a whole, “commented Maher.

For over 38 years Derek has been at the helm of Crystaltech, the UK’s largest independent specialist in the installation and servicing of all makes and models of commercial glass and dishwashing equipment. His wealth of expertise in the commercial catering and pub industry has enabled him to achieve award winning wash results for many of his customers who include major pub groups, high-street restaurant chains and independent catering outlets.

Director general Adam Mason commented: “I am delighted that Derek has assumed the position of ceda Chair. Although he had only a relatively short time as vice-chair, he is better prepared than most having embarked on a tour visiting former Chairs and other Industry veterans over the last few months. This demonstrates his commitment to the position and I have no doubt that his tenure will be hugely successful.”