Celebrity chef James Martin paid a visit to two prominent Lanarkshire food businesses on a special trip to the county – and will be promoting a familiar taste of the area at this summer’s food festivals.
The host of ITV’s popular Saturday Morning cooking show and regular on This Morning visited Airdrie to see the busy Albert Bartlett vegetable factory at Stirling Road and to meet some of the company’s local potato growers.
He also made a special visit to the Capocci Man ice cream factory and shop at Flowerhill Street in the town, meeting its head Ernest Capocci.
The 86-year-old took over the business from his father, Vincent, who originally founded the premium Italian-style ice cream business in 1926.
A spokesperson said: “Ernest and his team are the only ones who know the secret ice cream recipe, only available from the Capocci Man shop in Airdrie or a select limited number of local outlets including the Capocci Man van.
“James was really impressed with what he tasted – he loves the ice cream and believes in the rich heritage of the brand.”
Bartlett’s acquired the Capocci Man business three years ago; and now the ice cream is to be promoted across the country thanks to the TV chef.
James is working with the firm to plan promotional events in the south of England, beginning with Paul Ainsworth’s travelling feast which is touring Cornwall this month.
Meanwhile, the distinctive Capocci Man van is currently touring festivals including the current Foodies event, described as “the UK’s biggest celebration of food, drink and wellbeing”.
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