A Welsh food firm with a base in Carmarthenshire has landed its first south Wales council contract.

Harlech Foodservice, under a £700,000 agreement, will now supply grocery products to schools and care homes in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

This marks the first triumph of the distribution company's expansive journey as part of a £6 million plan expected to generate 150 new jobs and multiple similar council agreements.

The company holds its main office in Criccieth, Gwynedd, with additional bases in Merthyr Tydfil, Carmarthen, and Chester.

Besides its inaugural venture in south Wales, Harlech Foodservice also prides itself on a £1.5 million deal, retained to supply schools and care homes in Gwynedd.

Marking another milestone, Harlech has recently acquired Celtic Foodservices in Pembroke Dock.

This progress represents an important step in its expansion plan in south Wales.

South Wales account manager, Gavin Davies, expressed his joy, saying: "I’m delighted that our first schools contract is right on my doorstep as we’ll be supplying my old school.

"We are now the primary supplier for drinks, school-compliant confectionery and snacks and a secondary employer for other products.

"It’s a massive opportunity for us."

Mr Davies highlighted Harlech's commitment to support local producers.

Welsh products like Radnor Springs drinks, cake bars, biscuits, and other snacks all conform to school regulations with low sugar levels.

The success of Harlech in securing the Welsh Procurement Services Framework was key to winning the deal.

Additionally, the company's growth in the past three years is noteworthy.

From a turnover of £32 million, Harlech soared to a record £50 million with a profit exceeding £2 million.

These numbers spurred the opening of the new depot in Carmarthen this spring.

According to Mark Lawton, Harlech's sales director, the new venture will showcase their excellent service and diverse product range, strengthening the company's presence in Wales.

He said: "This new contract in Rhondda Cynon Taf will enable us to demonstrate the range of products we can supply and the excellent service we provide."

The firm has 250 employees across its four locations, running a fleet of more than 50 vehicles delivering up to 5,000 product lines to Welsh customers who range from cafés and restaurants to public sector consumers.