Cheshire West and Chester Council is warning food business owners to be aware of a scam currently taking place across the country.
A company claiming to be associated with local councils is targeting food businesses, mainly those awaiting an inspection or with a low food hygiene rating. They are misleading business owners into buying a contract for food advice and support, so they can achieve a good food hygiene rating.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Pride and Community Safety, Councillor Stuart Bingham said: "As well as the consultancy firm fraudulently claiming that a relationship exists between them and Cheshire West and Chester Council, they may also use pressure tactics to get businesses to sign up for expensive contracts that go far and above what a small business needs.
"This Council has NO association with any private business to provide advice or guidance and does not charge for its statutory function of inspecting food businesses."
Tactics used by the scammers include multiple phone calls, emails, face-to-face visits, as well as threatening and bullying language about how the business will be in trouble with their council if they aren't compliant.
If your food business needs advice and support, the Council has a tried and tested service to help you achieve a 5 food hygiene rating. Further information on the GET5 scheme can be found on the Council's web site.