Retailing   Simon Allison BSc Food Technology, Reading University Food Technologist with Marks & Spencer I was originally planning a career in Forensic Science, but I discovered food technology via a sponsorship by Bernard Matthews Plc. I was so inspired by the week long experience that after my A’ levels, I returned to Reading University to study for a degree there. The course involved studying microbiology, food chemistry, engineering principles, even marketing but most importantly for me, working in the food industry for a year – actually doing the job. Several hundred turkey burgers, and jars of babyfood later (Bernard Matthews and Cow & Gate respectively), I moved from product development and line management to Marks & Spencer for a 6 month commercial project – the results of which are still used by Marks & Spencer today. Following the placement, I accepted a job offer with Marks & Spencer and started work in the Main Meals department. Since then I have worked with sandwiches, implementing instore bakery systems, sushi and several external projects out in the food industry with Campden and Chorleywood Food Research Association and the Department for the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. I now work in the prepared fruit salads area, something I find more challenging as it involves the growing and procurement of ingredients. I wouldn’t work in any other industry, and why should I? My job has seen me travel from Luton to Belfast, Paris to Cape Town, and there is no prouder a moment than watching a customer pick up the product you have worked on!