Members’ News
October 2020
New Nordic loaf from Delifrance #
Leading bakery solution Délifrance has created a new Nordic Loaf made with several different types of flour and seeds, reflecting shifting consumer perceptions around bread.
According to the Délifrance report Prove It – 40% of consumers say they want healthier bread options, while 21% say they want breads with more flavour choices and made from different flours.
Enter the Délifrance Nordic Loaf. Inspired by a traditional Nordic recipe it is made from three different types of flour (wheat, rye, and barley) and packed with seeds (sunflower, linseed, and sesame). It has a distinctive flavour, a crunchy crust, and beautifully soft crumb – making it perfect for crafted open sandwiches or as an accompaniment.
Designed to contain everything you need for a busy day – Délifrance Nordic Loaf is packed full of beneficial nutrients. Just one slice packs as much protein as 70g of cooked green lentils and as much omega-3 as a walnut2, as well as being a great source of minerals (Iron, Zinc, Magnesium, and Phosphorous).
Stéphanie Brillouet, marketing director for Northern Europe and North America at Délifrance, said: “As the wellness trend continues, it’s essential operators respond. Consumers want to see fresh, traditional breads that offer a premium and authentic experience, as well as nutritious ingredients. That’s why we’ve developed our Nordic Loaf. A cleaner, healthier bread that delivers an extraordinary and guilt-free sensory experience.”
To find out more about Délifrance UK and see its full range of bread, viennoiserie, savoury and pâtisserie products, visit its website at http://www.delifrance.com/uk/
Major Changes at FEA #
Merging of two key committees reflects changing times as FEA develops virtual events
FEA announced that it will be merging two of its key committees, the marketing committee and exhibition liaison committee. The move was initiated by Malcolm Harling, who is stepping down as chair of the revenue and marketing committee. “The overlapping responsibilities of the two committees meant that there was good reason to restructure in line with our strategic plan,” he explains. “A lot of the work in marketing was involved in our exhibitions, so it makes sense to combine the two and avoid duplication.
“On another point, I hope the merger will allow us to bring younger blood into the committee as we build for the future.”
John Whitehouse, chair of FEA, says, “Malcolm has certainly served his time – he first joined the marketing committee back in 2001. I’d like to say a personal thank you to him for his sterling work. The FEA’s profile has gone from strength to strength in recent years, in no small measure that’s been down to his leadership of, support of, and input into the marketing effort.”
While he is stepping down from chairing one committee, Harling, who is sales and marketing director of Williams, will continue to chair the FEA refrigeration product group forum and remains a member of FEA Council. Meanwhile Simon Lohse, who is managing director of Rational UK, will chair the new combined revenue and marketing and exhibition liaison committee.
The pandemic has seen a rise in the exploitation of digital technology, offering opportunities to develop virtual events to replace exhibitions and other activities. FEA has established a digital marketing expert group to support the committee’s objective to develop the events, training, exhibition and statistics elements of FEA’s service to the industry. Currently it is is looking into organising a series of virtual events that will offer a forum where operators can meet suppliers to find out about the latest advances and advice in key areas of FEA work as well as current issues such as food waste and FOG (Fats Oil and Grease), connectivity and BREXIT.
The Foodservice Equipment Association (FEA) is the independent, authoritative voice of the foodservice equipment industry, representing over 200 companies who supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment - from utensils to full kitchen schemes. For more information on FEA visit www.fea.org.uk
NESCAFÉ launches online coffee-to-go hub to help customers drive sales #
Nescafé, the coffee experts, have launched a new online coffee-to-go hub as a one stop shop destination to help coffee-to-go customers grow their hot drinks trade and maximise their sales from coffee.
The hub promises all the latest coffee market trends, advice and tips for success, plus access to a ‘click n deliver’ online ordering service. And bringing together the entire coffee-to-go range in one place, from the entry level Nescafé &Go simple coffee machine and the new Nescafé Mini Bean to Cup Coffee Machine with whole beans, to the Nescafé Azera To Go roasted Arabica coffee beans & fresh milk solution.
Charlotte Smith, Category Manager – Coffee-to-Go, Nestlé Professional UK & Ireland says: “As a nation, our love of coffee has reached new levels. Three in four Brits now drink at least one cup of coffee out-of-home a week, meaning coffee and convenience have never been more important. Our on-the-go hub has been designed to help business operators maximise the profit potential from coffee and to welcome customers in store with the rich aroma of freshly ground coffee beans.
“The hub will help time conscious operators with a one stop shop to stock up. We’ve got all the essential coffee products in one place and available for free ‘click n deliver’*. Our aim is to help the operator by giving them all the tools they need at their fingertips so they can focus on driving sales and engaging with customers.”
The Nescafé coffee-to-go hub is free to join at www.coffeetogo.co.uk.
As well as access to a coffee community, and sales boosting hints, tips and market advice members will benefit from a tailored CRM plan, exclusive offers and unique coffee bundle deals as well as receiving timely replenishment reminders for repeat stock ordering. Plus, members can also order free branded point of sale display for both the Nescafé &Go and Nescafé Mini Bean to Cup Coffee Machine to drive customer awareness and sales.
As an opening deal, members can benefit from 2 x 600 cup bundle worth £2400** when purchasing a qualifying Nescafé Mini Bean to Cup Coffee Machine***. This new machine, with visible whole bean hopper, promises a coffee-shop style experience with the authentic richness and aroma of a fresh whole bean to cup solution. From espresso and Americano, to lattes, cappuccinos and delicious hot chocolate, all product items can be purchased via the hub shop and delivered direct.
Springboard to get 10,000 young people into work by 2022 to tackle the hospitality staffing crisis #
Springboard has launched an initiative to get 10,000 young people into work in hospitality by 2022, to futureproof hospitality’s talent pipeline and tackle the industry’s long-term staffing crisis post-Covid and post-Brexit.
‘Springboard to 2022’ is an 18-month programme in which the charity will coordinate
government support available through Plan for Jobs, training, industry partner relationships and participants’ journeys into work, while allowing hospitality businesses to focus on rebuilding from the Coronavirus Pandemic.
The hospitality industry was among the hardest hit industries by Covid and as many as 900,000 jobs are at risk, with a further 30,000 young people who normally enter the hospitality industry each year likely to struggle to find work.
Chris Gamm, CEO of Springboard said: “The Government has committed a huge amount of support to getting young people into work, training and apprenticeships, but hospitality businesses are simply not in a place to take advantage right now.
“However, hospitality has experienced a long-term staffing crisis and, post-Covid and post- Brexit, when the industry has recovered and returned to full capacity, that staffing crisis is likely to be worse than ever.”
“Our goal is to futureproof the hospitality talent pipeline and have 10,000 young people engaged, skilled and ready for work for when the industry recovers in 12-18 months’ time.”
Springboard will be the central hub in Springboard to 2022, managing:
Promoting the hospitality industry through outreach and engagement
Assessment and signposting to the most appropriate training
Training delivery using Springboard’s award-winning programmes
Managing employer and industry partner relationships
Mentoring and specialist careers advice and guidance
Supporting businesses to hire and retain skilled staff
For more information about Springboard to 2022, or to register interest in benefitting from the initiative, visit https://springboard.uk.net/2022.
The project has won the support of some of the UK’s most prominent employers, including BaxterStorey, Sodexo, CH&Co, Corbin & King, The Pig, Bidfood, Bespoke Hotels, Iconic Luxury Hotels and Edwardian Hotels.
Other bodies to back the initiative include Department for Work and Pensions, UK Hospitality, British Beer and Pub Association, British Institute of Innkeeping, Scottish Tourism Alliance and Skills Development Scotland.
Springboard has more than 30 years’ experience supporting young and disadvantaged people into work in the hospitality leisure and tourism sectors through its award-winning training and employability programmes, mentoring and specialist career support
The work begins straight away. If you have vacancies to fill now, Springboard are partnering with Harri’s HospitalityUnite to support businesses looking to explore the government’s Kickstart initiative. Visit https://springboard.uk.net/support/ 2022 for more details.
Bidfood launches virtual development session, ‘Bidfood Kitchen’ #
Bidfood recently hosted two virtual customer development sessions, showcasing the best of Christmas products and pizza concepts to an audience of over 250 people.
After months of few face to face customer and supplier meetings, with less focus on innovation and more so on Covid-related products and solutions, Bidfood launched their ‘Bidfood Kitchen’ webinars to inject some creativity and ‘foodiness’ into the industry, in preparation for the Christmas period and the rise in takeaway.
Comprising two 45 minute sessions, Bidfood’s Food Innovation Manager, Martin Eshelby talked through a variety of products, showcasing how best to prepare, cook and serve them, innovative ideas for menu development and ways to deal with the challenges that lie ahead for operators.
Presenting alongside Martin was Gemma Benford, Head of Customer Marketing and Georgina Triniman, Customer Marketing Executive, who added an extra dimension to the webinars by weaving in a range of consumer insight.
Speaking about the sessions, Gemma Benford, Head of Customer Marketing said: “We’re so pleased to have launched Bidfood Kitchen. We’ve missed presenting to our customers and this exciting platform enables us to hold interactive sessions at a time when we can’t always see customers face to face.
“These are really challenging times but we felt it was so important to not lose the importance of showcasing our passion for food and trend-led ingredients in an engaging and fun way."
When exploring what Christmas 2020 could look like, the team discussed the uncertainty surrounding this years’ festivities and consumers’ cautious approach. So it was unsurprising to learn that 60% of consumers had not started planning their Christmas celebrations yet.
Analysing this research and looking for ways to best support customers, the team at Bidfood identified a number of ways to ensure that safety, social distancing and hygiene were front of mind whilst not compromising quality of food and drink. Ideas discussed on the webinar included a Christmas BBQ to make use of outdoor space, Christmas product hampers as an alternative to a Christmas takeaway option and a variety of vegan and vegetarian products.
The second webinar moved away from festivities and focused on a growing trend, particularly in takeaway – pizza! Showcasing Bidfood’s pizza concept, The Crafty Pizza Co., Martin showcased the simplicity and effectiveness of including a takeaway pizza option on menus. With trend-led, delicious recipes and
step by step guides, this is yet another way to navigate the challenges this year has presented hospitality with, with a simple yet effective takeaway solution.
It's a hat trick for Speed #
The Food & Hospitality specialists at communications agency, Speed, have this week taken home the UK Content Award for B2B Campaign of the Year for their work for BRITA Professional. This marks the third award win for the #LifeIsBetterFiltered campaign this year to date with previous accolades in The Drum PR Awards and PRCA Dare Awards.
The judges commented that they were really impressed with this campaign due to the fact the results were clear and measurable and that it included extensive research to inform creative. They also observed that it was clear that a lot of time, energy and expertise went into its creation.
The multi award winning campaign has also been shortlisted for the PRCA National Awards and the B2B Marketing Awards.
Speed Communications Food & Hospitality Associate Director Helen Collingborn said: “It is thanks to the team’s bravery and ambition that we have been able to deliver bold campaigns such as Life is Better Filtered for BRITA Professional. The event and range of winners demonstrated how vibrant, creative and talented the industry can be and we were honored to be amongst such worthy competition.”
For more information about the award-winning agency visit www.speedcommunications.com.
Sodexo celebrates a hat-trick of wins at the 2020 IWFM awards #
Sodexo was named winner in three categories at the prestigious IWFM Awards . In all three categories Sodexo and its client organisations, Diageo, Johnson & Johnson (J&J) and the University of Greenwich were recognised for delivering excellence in workplace experience, collaboration and in the special 2020 category Covid-19 response award for adapting to new realities.
In the Workplace experience: office/corporate environment category Diageo and Sodexo were recognised for their work in the 16-month relocation project to move Diageo’s Scottish HQ to a new, bespoke and state-of-the-art Edinburgh address. The new office has created a dynamic new working environment allowing Diageo to empower their employees to perform to the best of their ability. View the new Edinburgh Park HQ here.
The Collaboration award went to J&J and Sodexo’s WeCo vested partnership. Sodexo and J&J developed a new working partnership, using Vested Outsourcing, a hybrid outsourcing business model whereby both parties focus on shared values and goals to create an arrangement that is mutually beneficial.
This year included three Covid-19 response categories, voted by IWFM members and readers of Facilitate magazine. The category for Adapting to New Realities went to the University of Greenwich supported by Sodexo and consultants Gardiner & Theobald for the successful mobilisation of a new IFM contract as the country went into lockdown. The new IFM contract saw a fundamental change to the way FM is delivered across the University’s estate, involving more than 150 suppliers and focuses on social and added value. A short video on the mobilisation can be viewed here.
Sean Haley, regional chair Sodexo UK & Ireland, said: “It has been an extraordinary year for everyone and I couldn’t be prouder of the way our teams across the business have continued to deliver excellence in the services we provide to our clients in both the public and private sectors.
“Receiving these awards alongside our client organisations is testament to the valued partnerships we have developed. A huge congratulations to the winning teams, our finalists and their client partners.
“The success of our business relies on the hard work and dedication of our people. This amazing achievement is thanks to our colleagues who every day demonstrate our values; team spirt, service spirit and spirit of progress and deliver great service to our clients and consumers.”
Sodexo was also shortlisted in the following categories:
Social Value: Student Living by Sodexo. Pioneered in 2014 to create a meaningful, positive life experience for students throughout their time at university while addressing some of the challenges.
Team of the year (private sector):
Student Living by Sodexo Northumbria University team which is committed to going that bit further every day and considering our customers in every decision we make.
J&J and Sodexo’s ‘WeCo’ team working together to unlock value and solve problems in a way that creates a powerful competitive advantage for both organisations, with the overall vision to enhance the J&J workplace as a differentiator for wellbeing and retention of its employees.
Pan’Artisan launches Mini Dough Bites – the small treat that’s big on flavour! #
To address the demand for small dishes, sharing options and snack size portions, Pan’Artisan’s latest launch to its bakery range, Mini Dough Bites, provides consumers with a premium, tasty treat and operators with a popular, convenient, quick to serve product.
Recent industry statistics support the popularity of snacking, a trend that continues to grow; a recent report from Mintel* states ‘snacking is ingrained and almost ubiquitous in the UK, with 94% of consumers eating snacks in the two weeks to March 2020 and 36% snacking at least twice a day’.
The Mini Dough Bites are manufactured in Italy, using authentic ingredients and production processes, resulting in small pillows of part baked dough which have a fine, even texture and soft eating quality. The process creates a slight variation in individual size, giving a pleasing, hand-made, rustic appearance.
For a delicious menu option, Pan’Artisan recommends baking the defrosted Mini Dough Bites in butter, flavoured or plain, which allows a soft crust to form and the dough bites to absorb the butter and flavour.
Pan’Artisan’s Mini Dough Bites meet the need for quick serve scenarios - being frozen and part-baked they can be ready to serve from frozen in under 4 minutes or, if cooking after defrosting, in 2½ minutes and when garlic butter is added the Mini Dough Bites take around 5-6 minutes to cook. They are suitable for baking in a convection oven, impinger or wood-fired oven.
Pan’Artisan’s Mini Dough Bites are available as a box of 458.
For more information on the Pan’Artisan range of products call 01730 811490 or visit www.panartisan.com
Premier Foods encourages caterers to make the most of Marvel with new giveaway #
Premier Foods is supporting its Marvel skimmed milk powder range by launching a
foodservice giveaway this autumn, helping to raise awareness of the brand’s key benefits and its Fortification Recipe Guide among care caterers. The guide highlights the benefits of fortifying food, providing nutritional tips and recipe inspiration from soups, fish pie and chilli; to sweet treats such as cheesecake, ice cream and bread and butter pudding. The first 50 caterers to get in touch will be sent a package of Marvel goodies including samples.
Naturally rich in calcium, Marvel has fantastic effects on both macro and micro-nutrient replenishment, boasting significant levels of calcium and vitamin B12. In addition, the range has been fortified with vitamins A and D, helping to generate a stronger immune system and a healthy inflammatory response. As a low-fat, high protein product, Marvel skimmed milk powder is incredibly versatile and suitable for use in solid and liquid formats. From breakfast to supper, it’s a great way for care caterers to meet nutritional requirements and maintain nutrition status.
Sarah Robb, Foodservice Marketing Manager at Premier Foods comments, “The skimmed milk powder market in foodservice is now worth £10m and continues to grow, with healthcare the biggest sector due to fortification needs. Our aim is to encourage those who haven’t used the product before to try it out, and for those who have to get even more experimental. It is a versatile product which can add vital nutrients into an array of savoury or sweet dishes.
“With strong demand from across the healthcare and education industries, we’ve tailored our range to make it as accessible as possible for foodservice. From our 2kg bag which was introduced at the start of 2020 to support large quantities required, to our Fortification Guide which provides a host important information when it comes to fortifying meals. This latest giveaway is continuing our support for the brand, with caterers able to get their hands on free samples and recipe inspiration.”
FEA opens Gateway to government Kickstart scheme #
FEA has enthusiastically backed the government’s Kickstart scheme, which provides funding for employers to create job placements for 16-24 year olds. A limitation of the scheme is that an application must be for at least 30 job placements. Now FEA has formed a Kickstart Gateway, meaning FEA members can apply – even if it’s only for one job.
“The scheme is a massive opportunity to encourage young people into the foodservice equipment industry,” says John Whitehouse, chair of FEA. “The FEA secretariat has already received applications from several members – if any companies are thinking of applying, then I’d encourage them to do so speedily.”
FEA partnered with another trade association, BHETA (The British Home Enhancement Trade Association), to create the Gateway. The two associations have worked together in the past, as they have several mutual members. A Kickstart Gateway is a method by which smaller employers can club together to achieve the minimum 30 applications. “By working with BHETA we were able to quickly establish the requirements for the Gateway,” says Whitehouse.
The Kickstart scheme covers 100% of the National Minimum Wage (or National Living Wage, depending on the age of the applicant) for 25 hours per week, for six months. It also covers the costs of employer national insurance contributions and employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions. In addition there is £1,500 of funding available for each job placement to set up support and training, as well as helping pay for uniforms and other setup costs.
“These are tough times for employers, and tough times for young adults looking to enter the job market,” says Whitehouse. “The Kickstart scheme has the potential to make a major contribution to the foodservice equipment industry, both financially and by attracting the young starters we need.”
For information on the FEA Kickstart Gateway contact Jocelyn Carr, jocelyn.carr@fea.org.uk.
Britvic and Pepsico renew exclusive partnership for further 20 years #
New 20-year franchise bottling agreement for PepsiCo carbonated brands in Great Britain
The Rockstar energy brand will transition to Britvic on 1 November
All plastic bottles in GB to be made entirely from recycled plastic (rPET) by the end of 2022
Britvic has announced that it has reached agreement with PepsiCo for a new and exclusive 20-year franchise bottling agreement in Great Britain for the production, distribution, marketing and sales of its carbonated soft drink brands - including Pepsi, 7UP and Mountain Dew. The new agreement extends the relationship to 31 December 2040, and includes the Rockstar energy brand, for which Britvic will take responsibility from 1 November this year.
Britvic also announced its intent for all plastic bottles in GB to be made from 100% recycled plastic (rPET) by the end of 2022 – three years earlier than originally planned, and ahead of the previous target of 50%. This will cover the entire GB portfolio of Britvic-owned and PepsiCo brands, and demonstrates both companies’ commitment to sustainability and a healthier planet.
Commenting on the agreement, Paul Graham, managing director of Britvic GB, said:
“Over the past 34 years we’ve built an exceptional relationship with PepsiCo, harnessing the power of their brands and using our expertise to grow and develop them into firm favourites in the UK soft drinks category. The renewal of this partnership echoes the trust that has been built over this period and the confidence that PepsiCo has in Britvic to lead these brands for the next two decades. Adding Rockstar to the portfolio represents an additional feather in the cap of our incredible production, sales and marketing teams.
“I’m especially proud of the work we’re doing together to deliver on our rPET sustainability commitments, three years ahead of schedule. It is no mean feat, and the dedication of our respective teams further serves to demonstrate that sustainability is truly at the heart of our business strategies.
We want to be a net positive contributor to the people and the world around us. We’re committed to minimising waste and using resources in a sustainable way in all parts of our business and manufacturing. Accelerating this move to 100% recycled plastic is the right next step for Britvic to help reduce our impact on the planet.”
Silviu Popovici, CEO PepsiCo Europe said:
“We are very pleased to announce this new and enhanced exclusive bottling appointment with Britvic in Great Britain, as well as further strengthening our portfolio with the exciting addition of Rockstar. This decision was based on our history of sustained strong performance in the market, backed by Britvic’s ongoing commitment to significantly invest behind our brands.
“More importantly, our shared values have led to sustainability forming an integral part of this new agreement, which includes our latest mutual commitment to ensure that all of our bottles are made from 100% recycled plastic by the end of 2022. This is in support of PepsiCo and Britvic’s vision of creating a circular economy on plastic and build a world where plastics need never become waste. We very much look forward to the next chapter of our strengthened relationship with Britvic.”
Elior UK appoints new head of dietetics and nutrition #
Leading contract caterer Elior UK has appointed Mandy Davies as its new head of dietetics and nutrition.
As head of dietetics and nutrition for Elior UK, Davies will be responsible for a comprehensive nutritional and dietetic service – working with teams across the business to ensure evidence-based practice works in conjunction with the best commercial outcomes.
Commenting on her appointment, Davies said: “With my somewhat unusual background, my focus has always been fairly evenly split between commercial performance and customer care. Elior is hugely invested in the people it serves and cares for, and I’m looking forward to being part of that.”
Carl Morris, sales, marketing and corporate communications director at Elior UK, added: “Improving people’s health and wellbeing by championing better food choices is a key part of the Elior business. With a background in hospitality as well as clinical leadership experience in the NHS, Mandy is perfectly placed to help us develop concepts and environments that support good health and nutrition.”
A former sales and marketing director, Mandy has extensive experience within the NHS, holds an MSc with Distinction in Clinical Research from the University of Manchester, a BSc 1st Class in Nutrition & Dietetics from the University of Chester, and a BSc in Hospitality Management & Business from the University of Central Lancashire.
Foodbuy Commits to Buy Social Corporate Challenge for Further Three Years #
Foodbuy, a leading food procurement organisation, has extended its membership of Social Enterprise UK’s Buy Social Corporate Challenge – a ground-breaking initiative that sees high-profile businesses use their everyday spend to transform lives.
The Challenge, launched in 2016, brings together corporate partners from a broad range of industries with a collective ambition to spend £1 billion with social enterprise suppliers.
Foodbuy became the first food and drink company to join the Buy Social Corporate Challenge in 2019 and has now reinforced its commitment for a minimum of three further years. Foodbuy has also had its work recognised on a global scale by winning the ‘Best Social Value Initiative’ at the 2020 CIPS Excellence in Procurement Awards.
As well as extending its membership for three years, Foodbuy has set its sights on achieving a £5million spend target with UK social enterprises who are giving back to communities and tackling wider social issues. Since joining the Challenge in 2019, Foodbuy has spent more than £3.5million with over 20 different social enterprise businesses, including Change Please – an award-winning social enterprise coffee company who are empowering the homeless by training them to be baristas. Thanks to its work with Change Please, Foodbuy and its clients have supported over 60 people out of homelessness.
Ian Murphy, Managing Director, Foodbuy said: “When we decide to buy social, we’re helping to build a better world. That’s why we’re proud to be supporting a number of different social enterprise businesses. We use our scale and leverage to embed real, tangible social impact across the supply chain and are well on the way to exceeding our £5million spend target.”
Andy Daly, Head of Corporate Partnerships at Social Enterprise UK added: “In their first year on the Buy Social Corporate Challenge, Foodbuy achieved so much, showing that it really isn’t difficult to find high-quality social enterprise suppliers to serve the corporate market. It’s great to see that the ambition is there to take it to the next level, and we hope this also inspires other businesses to become part of the buy social movement.”
During the Covid-19 lockdown period, Foodbuy sent care packages to its employees with a host of different social enterprise goodies and treats to enjoy with their families. Products and brands inside the care packages included Miss Macaroon, Toast Ale, Nemi Tea, Karma Drinks, Divine Chocolate, Rubies in the Rubble and many more.
Sodexo partners with Generation Success to help young people achieve career aspirations #
Sodexo has partnered with Generation Success to help empower 40 young people of diversity to achieve their career aspirations through a 14-month mentorship programme.
The coaches from Sodexo, who are undergoing a coaching apprenticeship, have a range of skills and expertise across facilities management and HR and through one-to-one sessions over a six-month period with their coachee, they will listen, share, review options.
Goals and expectations will be agreed, and Sodexo’s mentors will provide valuable advice and guidance on what barriers there are and what actions can be taken to overcome them.
Martin O’Rourke, Sodexo’s divisional director for Healthcare, has been involved in the Generation Success Mentoring Programme for two years and supported the development of the partnership programme with Sodexo’s HR team.
Commenting on the programme Martin said: “I’ve always felt passionate about helping people be the best they can be, and I joined the mentoring team at Generation Success because I wanted to help young adults from diverse backgrounds achieve their goals.
“I knew that Generation Success were keen to work more closely with Sodexo, and for Sodexo it’s a great opportunity to tap into young talent who may be considering a career in facilities management, or who may not have previously been aware of the breadth of roles available at Sodexo.”
James Adeleke, Founder and Director of Generation Success: “At Generation Success, we are passionate about empowering young people to be the best they can be.
“Often, the young people we work with feel that they are being held back by their diversity, and we want to play our part in helping people of colour achieve their career aspirations.
“We are proud to partner with Sodexo in the mentoring scheme not only to open up a range of career opportunities to young people that they may not previously have been aware of, but also because we know that Sodexo has a strong culture of inclusivity.”
Sodexo has a long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion and creating an environment where people feel that they belong and can thrive. Its established Origins employee network works to celebrate everyone’s culture, heritage and beliefs and promote equal opportunities for all. Sodexo is establishing an internal coaching programme for frontline BAME employees who feel like they would benefit from mentorship, and as part of Black History Month, listening groups for Black colleagues are being held, aimed at bringing about positive change to help more people from minority ethnic backgrounds into senior leadership and management positions.
Evolving for a stronger tomorrow and a sustainable future … #
The last 6 months for any business in any sector have been exceptionally challenging, even with the extension of the furlough scheme and government business support. But the hospitality sector, with ever increasing trade restrictions, has certainly suffered a few more bruises along the way! But it is also during these challenging times where your drive for survival and passion for the industry, fuels the path to look for opportunities to diversify the business, its people and to strengthen the specialist service offering to its clients and the wider market.
Evolve has launched a new specialist safeguarding brand, Enhance Catering Recruitment, under the stewardship of Clare Downes, that focuses on supplying DBS cleared staff to UK clients.
‘It’s with great anticipation, that we have launched the new specialist safeguarding brand, Enhance Catering Recruitment - a welcome addition to the established and respected Evolve Hospitality brand and an integral part of the newly formed Evolve Group. Specialising in DBS checked catering staff, under the operational management of Samantha McCune, whom I have worked with for 12 years, I am truly looking forward to being able to support our clients in the health, education and defence sectors. It is a very exciting time for everyone in the group and we are looking forward to what the future will bring,’ Clare states. We are truly excited to offer this service & support to our clients and candidates during these unprecedented times.
As Evolve’s MD, Ed Vokes said, ‘I have worked with Clare for 15 years and she has been a huge part in the growth of Evolve and to launch a specialist brand to differentiate the businesses for various industry demands is vitally important.’
Evolve is also extremely proud and pleased to announce that we have entered into a definitive merger agreement with Collins King & Associates, a specialist and leading provider of permanent recruitment to the hospitality industry for the last 21 years.
This merger with Collins King & Associates with Gary King as Managing Director, further strengthens our position within the hospitality market. This collaboration encapsulates years of experience, knowledge, and expertise with Collins King’s insight & expertise within the permanent labour market and Evolve’s specialist knowledge of the temporary labour market, it will provide our clients an experienced and holistic staffing provider that can service their ever-changing business needs.
This partnership is also expected to result in greater efficiencies and significantly increase our market share. Ed continues ‘I am delighted that Gary has joined us as part of the group. He has been a friend of Evolve since it started in 2012 and he brings with him incomparable industry expertise and the respect of the industry. Together we will come out of these crazy times! We are already collaborating on various projects which are hugely exciting and because of the incredible dedication of our respective teams and candidates, we are evolving … even during a pandemic!’
The integration of both companies will take place over the next 6 months and of course, in the meantime our customers will continue to receive the same high-quality service, which they have come to expect. Collins King, which will continue to operate under their name, is now a subsidiary of the Evolve Group. Gary King confirms this new partnership, ‘I am delighted and extremely excited about our merger with Evolve Hospitality as part of a newly formed group. We have been working closely with Evolve Hospitality since their conception in 2012, so this was a natural and seamless progression into a full partnership with a company who share the same core values. As a group we can now offer our clients the complete range of recruitment services coupled with a commitment for service excellence’
The Evolve Group will consist of Evolve Hospitality, Enhance Catering and Collins King. Ed confirms, ‘I am delighted that we are now a group with 3 successful and industry specific offerings to the market where our combined values and team excellence will continue to underpin our commitment and drive… truly evolving!’