University student Jonathan Freeman has won the Shell Technology Enterprise Programme (STEP) award for the most enterprising student in the East Midlands region following his work at Swedeponic UK, the organic fresh potted herb grower.
Freeman, who is an undergraduate at the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, was assigned to re-develop the company's critical product safety systems that ensure food products are safe for consumption.
The student re-wrote the systems and produced an easy to interpret systems manual. It will ensure that the company will retain its British Retail Consortium Higher standard ñ one of the highest accreditations in the food industry.
The project has resulted in some immediate benefits for the host business. Managing director Mark Powell said: “Jonathan's work has made a significant difference to our company. His enthusiasm, tenacity and technical skills have been an extremely valuable resource. He has also enhanced our ability to further the expansion of our business into the UK supermarket retailers.”
Freeman will now progress to represent the East Midlands region at the UK STEP awards to be held on October 29.
