Members’ News

August 2025

Pan’Artisan attains Global Standard for Food Safety with BRCGS AA+ #

Pan‘Artisan is proud to announce the achievement of its first ever AA+ ‘Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standard’ (formerly known as BRC) accreditation. 

The company held A+ status consistently for many years and has always endeavoured to obtain the very highest possible grade in food safety standards. 

The updated name for BRC, to reflect a broader scope and international recognition, has become an international benchmark for food safety and best practice in quality and responsibility, with over 17,000 certified sites in over 130 countries.  The many benefits of holding this coveted accreditation include protection for customers, reduced risk of product recalls and reassurance in the Company’s food safety management systems.

David Jones, Managing Director, Pan’Artisan Ltd says “Pan’Artisan prides itself on high quality ingredients, products and food safety and we are delighted to have achieved our goal of BRCGS AA+.  Over the past few years, we have invested heavily in our quality assurance programme, implementing enhanced improvements for product testing, production processes and technical adherence.  

“The Company has adopted a culture of ‘Everyday Standards’ where teams across the company audit each other against various production, hygiene, engineering, warehouse, technical and office standards on a weekly basis, administering any necessary improvements on achieving ‘every day’ high standards for food safety and health & safety practices.

“In addition to this, the company has invested in its people; attracting, developing and retaining highly skilled managers for key leadership roles; improving on its training, and has created a reward system based on skills and nurturing a culture of continuous learning and improvements.” 

With such a strong foundation in place, Pan’Artisan’s next phase of development is to strengthen its pizza base business.  Further investment on a new production line and freezer warehouse capacity, will ensure Pan’Artisan continues to meet demand for its high ‘restaurant’ quality products for the foodservice and retail sector.
 
For more information on the Pan’Artisan range of products call 01730 811490 or visit www.panartisan.com

Lexington Catering hosts charity fundraising dinner for homelessness social enterprise Fat Macy’s #

Lexington Catering, London based B&I contract caterer, hosted a charity fundraising dinner held at community kitchen Refettorio Felix in Earl’s Court, raising over £5,000 for Fat Macy’s, a social enterprise tackling homelessness.
 
The sold-out event welcomed guests including Lexington suppliers and clients for an evening of celebration and fundraising, featuring live music, a menu inspired by Fat Macy’s Middle Eastern restaurant, Sohaila, and food prepared and served by the Lexington team. Guests also enjoyed a raffle with generously donated prizes, including a £100 voucher for The Ivy Collection, a whole leg of 30-month aged Parma ham from Ticco, and a magnum of champagne from Jeroboams. Proceeds raised will support Fat Macy’s initiatives, including trainee travel and funding for qualifications, as well as milestone grants as part of its 200-hour development scheme.
 
Fat Macy’s helps Londoners, who find themselves in temporary accommodation, transition into stable housing by providing culinary training and supporting with employability skills. It operates a catering service where trainees can gain vital experience, with a percentage of the profits going towards rental deposits for individuals.
 
Lexington has supported Fat Macy’s since 2019, providing training outlets and the opportunity to work in restaurants in collaboration with its clients. In 2023 Lexington partnered with Fat Macy’s to launch a café – Fat Macy’s on Five – to provide further catering and hospitality training opportunities for those in temporary accommodation. Lexington is proud that Fat Macy's on Five has increased Fat Macy’s hospitality training hours by 120%.  Seven trainees have completed the Fat Macy’s programme through the partnership and four trainees have found work because of gaining hospitality experience at Fat Macy’s on Five.
 
Nathalie Moukarzel, CEO and co-founder of Fat Macy’s comments: “The evening was a fantastic success and the funds raised enable us to continue helping Londoners break the cycle of homelessness and upskill them with new personal and professional skills. The support from Lexington has been a meaningful step in our mission and we look forward to continuing our relationship and making meaningful impact together.”

Matt Wood, managing director of Lexington Catering, adds: “It’s always special to see social value in action as much as it is with Fat Macy’s. The charity dinner was a proud moment for all of us seeing the passion and determination of all individuals involved. We’re a proud supporter of Fat Macy’s social mission and we’re thrilled to have helped raise such a fantastic sum of money for them.”

Al fresco eating, cutlery culture and the latest top ten trends #

FEA publishes latest issue of Tabletop Trends

The new issue of the Tabletop Trends newsletter spotlights the latest products for al fresco eating, investigates cutlery culture and looks at the top ten light equipment and tableware trends – as well as highlighting the star products from this year’s LET Forum. 

Tabletop Trends is FEA’s vehicle for keeping LET distributors up to speed with the very latest news and advice from the sector.  For example, in the al fresco feature suppliers offer some ‘blue sky’ thinking about choosing the right equipment for durability, versatility and the ability to withstand the UK’s unpredictable summer weather! 

Meanwhile the Top Ten Trends feature analyses feedback from the LET Forum to look at what’s hot in the sector right now.  Colours, cutlery, chocolate and copper were all in the Forum Top Ten, and the article looks at some of the whys and wherefores of these and other trends. 

In the cutlery culture article three leading suppliers give their thoughts on the increasingly diverse choice available on the market.  Colours, finishes and designs are covered as they consider style, substance and sustainability in the market. 

To read the latest issue click here (tinyurl.com/4xkcd9ve).  And to sign up for a free subscription to this quarterly e-newsletter click here.

Tabletop Trends is produced by the FEA’s LET Product Group.  The Foodservice Equipment Association is the independent, authoritative voice of the foodservice equipment industry, representing nearly 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 fea.org.uk 

KP Nuts offers pubs the chance to win a Luke Littler appearance #

New KP Nuts incentive celebrates long association of pubs and darts
 
KP Snacks is launching its first ever pub card trade promotion for KP Nuts, giving independent operators the chance to win an appearance by PDC World Champion Luke Littler in their pub.
 
KP is a proud partner of Luke Littler, pairing the ultimate pub snack with the ultimate pub game. Teaming up with the darts phenomenon, the new campaign is designed to celebrate the association of pubs and darts and drive footfall for independent operators by offering them the chance to host the darts sensation, with a full year’s supply of KP Nuts available for four runners up.

To enter, pubs simply need to purchase a promotional KP Nuts pub card pack and scan the on-pack QR code for a chance to win.  Running from the 11th of August to the beginning of October, the promotion will run across Original Salted Peanuts, Dry Roasted Peanuts and Aromatic Thai Chilli Flavour Coated Peanuts.

As the quintessential pub snack brand, KP Nuts has been a mainstay behind the bar for decades. With darts ranking as a top 10 most-watched sport in pubs and 53% of pubs across the UK having a dart board, KP is proud to champion a new era of pub darts with one of the game’s most exciting young players.
 
Sam Trabelsi, Out of Home Controller, KP Snacks, says: “Pubs have always been at the heart of the darts community, and we’re thrilled to be working with Luke Littler to launch this incentive.  We’re not just offering an incredible prize, we’re backing pubs by bringing excitement to the pub community, and helping pubs drive snack sales in what continues to be a challenging time for the sector.
 
“The promotion is part of KP’s ongoing investment in the channel, with a focus on celebrating the unique role pubs play in both community and culture."
 
At just 18, Luke Littler became a household name after becoming PDC World Champion, making him one of the youngest sports personalities in the UK today.
 
Luke Littler says: "Playing darts in the pub with my dad as a kid gave me some of my favourite memories. Pubs have always played a big role in local darts leagues and gave me a fantastic chance to practise and grow my game. That’s why I’m excited to team up with KP Nuts for this campaign, supporting pubs and celebrating everything we love about darts. I can’t wait to meet the lucky winner and spend some time with the locals!"
 
At more than five times the size of the nearest branded competitor, KP Nuts is the UK’s number one nut brand, trusted and recognised by shoppers. The brand is worth £103m RSV, growing +3.8%. 

Tough first half for hospitality groups as mixed weather flattens June sales #

Britain’s leading pub, bar and restaurant groups finished a soft first half of trading with sales exactly level year-on-year in June, the latest CGA RSM Hospitality Business Tracker reveals.
 
It follows a drop of 1.0% in May, and means sales were static or negative in four of the first six months of 2025, with a warm April the only period to deliver real-terms growth. June trading was affected by mixed weather and tough comparatives with the same month last year, when the Euro 2024 men’s football tournament was underway.
 
For the sixth month in a row, pubs achieved the best growth of the major segments of hospitality. Managed pub groups’ like-for-like sales were 1.2% above June 2024, while restaurants saw trading slip fractionally by 0.5%. Bars continued a long run of negative numbers with a year-on-year dip of 5.7%, and the on-the-go segment slipped by 4.0%.
 
The Tracker—produced by CGA by NIQ in partnership with RSM UK—shows groups’ June sales within the M25 were down by 1.0% year-on-year, while sales further afield rose marginally by 0.4%. It means trading in London lagged the rest of the country for five of the first six months of 2025.
 
Groups’ total sales through all channels, including at venues opened by groups in the last 12 months, were 2.8% ahead of the same month in 2024—slightly below the UK’s rate of inflation, as measured by the Consumer Prices Index.
 
Karl Chessell, director - hospitality operators and food, EMEA at CGA by NIQ, said: “June’s numbers round out a tough first half for hospitality groups. They have had to deal with the dual challenges of fragile consumer confidence and a hike in labour costs from April, and with inflation ticking up again, the second half of 2025 may be just as challenging. Nevertheless, there are some encouraging pockets of growth—especially in pubs, where people seem to be spending with a little more confidence. Operators will be hoping the rest of the Summer brings some brighter weather to help lift the sector back into growth.”
 
Saxon Moseley, head of leisure and hospitality at RSM UK, said: “June’s underwhelming results continue an unwelcome trend of subdued trading, with almost all segments of the market seeing negative like-for-like sales. This damaging combination of declining sales and higher operating costs is leading an increasing number of well-known brands to either appoint restructuring advisers, close sites or shut the doors completely. With labour costs already at breaking point, recent speculation of increased mandatory employer pension contributions could be the final nail in the coffin unless there is meaningful intervention from the Treasury in October to ease the burden on operators.”
 
CGA by NIQ collected sales figures directly from 122 leading managed groups for June’s edition of the CGA RSM Hospitality Business Tracker, which provides authoritative monthly insights into Britain’s restaurant, pub and bar sales. Companies participating in the Tracker receive a fuller breakdown of trading that helps to benchmark performance and understand market trends. To join the cohort, contact Andrew Dean at andy.dean@nielseniq.com

Compass signs the Social Recruitment Covenant to help people into meaningful work #

Reinforces Our Social Promise commitment to support 1 million people by 2030
 
Compass Group UK & Ireland, the UK’s largest food and support services company, has reaffirmed its commitment to Social Recruitment by signing the Social Recruitment Covenant – in a bid to further drive societal and economic change and offer opportunities for all.

This landmark initiative brings together hundreds of organisations across the UK that share a commitment to support individuals facing barriers to employment.

Created by PeoplePlus, and championed by the Social Recruitment Advocacy Group, the Covenant underlines Compass’ commitment to further enhance its work in creating a more inclusive workforce and championing opportunities for all. In 2021 Compass launched “Our Social Promise” – an ambition to positively impact one million lives by 2030, which includes a focus on creating meaningful job opportunities, supporting people with career progression and helping people from the local communities it operates in.

Compass has had success in helping people onto the first rung of the career ladder, through programmes such as its Social Partner Hub – a tailored recruitment initiative, for those who are long term unemployed, disabled and care leavers, into job roles. Launched in 2023, the Hub has now resulted in paid employment for over 220 people who were previously struggling to gain employment and over 1000 people have received help with job interview training and guidance. Compass has also supported people into roles through Sector Work Based Academies, programmes within its Xcelerate with Edgbaston regional skills and learning hub and offering a broad range of entry level apprenticeships.

Fellow signatories include a range of employers, social enterprises, education providers, awarding bodies, charities, and innovative businesses that are united in championing the principles of best practice in social recruitment. As a collective, those signing the covenant recognise that the complex personal circumstances faced by individuals, whether related to disability, mental ill health, neurodivergence, parenting responsibilities, prison experience, or a myriad of other challenges, should not be barriers to employment.

Sophie Smith, Chief People Officer, Compass Group UK & Ireland said: “Signing the Social Recruitment Covenant reflects our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and our belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. We are proud to be a people centred organisation, where many of our roles don’t require specific qualifications and we are able to provide on the job training and career pathways. This positions us perfectly to help people into work and invest in their development.

“We are committed to offering everyone the opportunity to progress, regardless of their background. Attracting, supporting, and nurturing a diverse workforce has numerous benefits – for individuals, for our organisational success, and for the good of society. We’re proud to be part of this important initiative.”

Kenny Boyle, CEO, PeoplePlus: “We created the Social Recruitment Covenant to act as a recruitment sergeant – a practical tool to help employers lead with purpose and open up jobs to those who face the greatest barriers. We’re proud to see Compass Group UK & Ireland take this step. Their leadership moves us closer to a fairer labour market – and we need more employers to join them. We’re ready to help.”

The Social Recruitment Covenant officially launched at Westminster on 6 November 2024. Signatories joined parliamentarians, business leaders, representatives from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Minister for Employment, Alison McGovern, as well as numerous stakeholders dedicated to realising the full potential of Social Recruitment.

Vacherin celebrates the success of its talented pastry chef duo #

Vacherin, the specialist London caterer, is celebrating the success of two of its gifted pastry chefs, Erycsson Barbosa and Jamie Akitoye, who made it all the way to the final of Bake Off: The Professionals 2025.

Over ten weeks, they competed against fellow pastry chefs from across the hospitality sectors. In every challenge set, Erycsson and Jamie showcased their technical skills and artistic creativity to secure their coveted place in the final. Finding out that they’d made it to the final was a memorable moment, and one they describe as “the best feeling”.

In recognition of their achievement, the Vacherin team is showcasing Erycsson’s and Jamie’s talents at its sites through client and customer initiatives designed to create excitement, boost engagement and elevate the dining experience.

Erycsson said of the experience: “Being part of Bake Off: The Professionals 2025 has been the most challenging and exciting experience of my career so far. It was intense but incredibly positive and rewarding. The show pushed me to learn new techniques, reimagine traditional methods, trust my instincts, and find creative ways to bring my vision to life. It has undoubtedly made me a better head chef. I’m especially proud to represent pastry chefs and chefs working in the contract catering sector.”

Jamie also shared: “Being on Bake Off: The Professionals was one of the most intense, inspiring and rewarding experiences of my career. It pushed me to refine my technique, trust my instincts, and stay creative under pressure. The level of talent in that kitchen was incredible and I walked away not only a better chef but also more confident in my style and vision.”

Phil Roker, Managing Director, Vacherin, said: “The Vacherin team has been united and inspired by Erycsson and Jamie, following their progression throughout the competition avidly. Their journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and our teams have come together in this shared moment of pride! Making it to the final is a remarkable achievement and testament to the great talent and passion for food excellence that our people have.”

Bidfresh announces the acquisition of Hodgson Fish and Sailbrand #

Bidfresh, one of the UK’s leading fresh produce wholesalers, is delighted to announce the acquisition of both Hodgson Fish and Sailbrand, effective from 30th July 2025.

This strategic move further strengthens Bidfresh’s position as the UK’s foremost fish and seafood wholesale distributor and marks the first acquisition under the leadership of Andy Farnworth, who became the wholesaler’s Managing Director last summer.

The acquisition supports the company’s strategic ambition to double in size over the next five years and is expected to strengthen the group, delivering greater scale, a broader product range, and the combined expertise of all three businesses for the benefit of customers.

Hodgson Fish is a fourth-generation business and one of the UK’s oldest UK suppliers, with operations dating back to 1916 on the fish quay in Hartlepool.

Sailbrand started operations in 1980, sourcing and delivering fresh seafood in the West Yorkshire region. The range and geography have grown, and they now deliver fresh and frozen seafood as well as fresh poultry, continental meats, cheeses, and deli across the North of England.

Since Hodgson Fish acquired Sailbrand in 2018, both companies have gone from strength to strength, earning a reputation for quality, reliability, customer service, and a broad product offering.

Both companies will continue to operate independently under the leadership of Peter Hodgson as Managing Director, while Lee Roberts will continue to head Sailbrand as Business Director.

Commenting on the acquisition, Andy said: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Peter, Jill, Ian, Lee and their teams into the Bidfresh family. We have long admired both businesses and are confident that, with our support, they will continue to flourish in their respective regions, serving their customers with outstanding quality fish and seafood.

"We are committed to expanding our Bidfresh network into new territories, both through organic growth and the acquisition of like-minded regional fresh businesses that share our values and enhance our overall proposition. The addition of Hodgson Fish and Sailbrand is a perfect example of this strategy in action.

"With their rich heritage, specialist expertise, and exceptional local teams in Hartlepool and Huddersfield, we believe both businesses are an ideal fit for Bidfresh. We are genuinely excited to be part of their journey ahead."

Peter Hodgson, Managing Director of Hodgson Fish and Sailbrand, commented, “We see Bidfresh as the ideal partner, thanks to their core values of quality and service, and their commitment to allowing individual businesses to retain their unique operations within the group.

“We are excited about the future and look forward to working closely with Andy and the wider Bidfresh team. It will be very much business as usual — the same management team will remain in place, continuing our hands-on approach and personal service ethos.

“These qualities have made Hodgson Fish and Sailbrand two of the UK’s most respected fresh fish and seafood suppliers, and this partnership will ensure that legacy continues well into the future.”

Hospitality shrinks in first half of 2025 as Government-led employment cost pressures bite #

Additional cost pressures from government policy around NICs and taxation combined with tough market conditions saw venue numbers fall in the first half of the year, with two premises closing every day for the first six months of 2025 – the new Hospitality Market Monitor from CGA by NIQ and AlixPartners, the global consulting firm, shows.
 
The exclusive research reveals a total of 98,746 sites operating at the end of June—374 fewer than at the start of the year. It equates to 62 net closures per month, or two per day. In the context of the overall size of the market, Britain’s number of licensed premises fell by 0.4% in the first six months of 2025.
 
The latest hospitality closures mean the sector is now 14.2% smaller (net) than it was at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, having recorded more than 16,000 net closures in the ensuing five-year period.
 
The new numbers are a setback for hospitality after a solid 2024, when site numbers were largely stable. The closures have followed the introduction of significant new employment costs in April, which have placed new pressures on site profitability. In absence of mitigation, these costs may trigger a new wave of company restructurings in the second half of this year.
 
The report shows how restaurants and smaller businesses have borne the brunt of closures so far in 2025. The food-led sector has contracted by 2.9% in just one year, in contrast to a 1.0% increase in drink-led venues. The difference in fortunes is also reflected in the CGA RSM Hospitality Business Tracker, which shows managed pubs have outperformed all other sub segments for sales in each month of this year.
 
The Hospitality Market Monitor from CGA by NIQ and AlixPartners reveals more trends in openings and closures across the hospitality sector, including a spotlight on the relatively resilient Manchester market. Of the 10 British city centres with the most licensed premises, Manchester is the only one to have a recorded an increase in venues between March and June, with recent openings there featuring expanding London-based brands, as well as local operators and entrepreneurs.
 
Karl Chessell, business unit director – hospitality operators and food, EMEA at CGA by NIQ, said: “Hospitality has been struggling under a disproportionate weight of inflation and taxes in recent years, and our latest figures show how every round of additional costs sends more businesses to the wall. New pay and National Insurance contributions aren’t the sole cause of closures lately, but they have been the final straw for many operators—especially smaller ones. The sector needs a fairer tax regime that supports growth and investment and encourages consumer spending. This environment will help the sector flourish and ensure more stability in venue numbers as we move forward.”
 
Graeme Smith, a senior partner at AlixPartners, said: “After a period of relative stability for pub and restaurant businesses last year, the first half of 2025 has proved more challenging, with the net closure rate increasing again – the big question for hospitality is what happens from here.
 
“The effects of a step change in costs and taxation, which landed this April, have made the trading environment more challenging for many hospitality businesses. Consumer demand appears to be resilient, so the medium-term impact of these changes is yet to be seen, although it seems likely that more closures will follow in the immediate term. In this environment, we would expect the polarisation in the market to continue, with the leading players continuing to grow and take market share from struggling brands.”

Compass Group UK & Ireland reports significant increase in Social Value #

As a result of positive interventions and initiatives, Compass delivered £12.1 million in Social Value (86% increase from 2023); and CH&CO delivered a further £1.7 million

When incorporating local employment figures a staggering £1.1 billion of Social Value has been delivered collectively 

Compass Group UK & Ireland, the UK’s largest food and support services business, has significantly increased its Social Value – totalling an impressive £12.1 million for 2024, an 86% increase from the previous year. This has been measured and validated by the Social Value Portal, using its TOM System™ Framework, reporting on Work, Economy and Community themes.
 
Its People and Community Impact report, highlights how through ongoing investment in people and its community-led approach, Compass is making a positive difference across the country.
 
Key interventions driving Social Value include:

Supported 220 unemployed or disabled people into work through its Social Partner Hub

Over 600 apprentices in training within the business; recognised as a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer 2025 (by DFE/Rate My Apprenticeship)

3,500 people trained at Xcelerate with Edgbaston, Compass’ Regional Community Skills and Learning Hub 

In the last two years gifted £3m of our apprenticeship levy to over 170 SMEs, to support a further 170 apprenticeships

Over 98,000 young people and families provided with food, nutrition, wellbeing and sustainability workshops

Spent £7.4 million with Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprises (VCSEs)

Donated £550,000 to charities across the country in the past year

400 client contracts have now moved to Real Living Wage, as part of Compass’ commitment to being a Living Wage Recognised Service Provider (since 2021)

250 school aged children have taken part in the Junior Chef Academy since it began in 2022 

The majority of the social impact Compass has created has been through its “Our Social Promise” initiative - a commitment made in 2021 to support 1 million people by 2030, through job creation, education, training, community and charitable engagement. To date, this has seen Compass support over 400,000 people.
 
Having acquired CH&CO in April 2024, the Social Value their teams deliver has been measured separately, generating £1.7 million in 2024. An additional £113.3 million has been created as a result of local employment opportunities, bringing the Social Value total to £115 million. CH&CO has further developed its partnerships with social enterprises such as Well Grounded and Luminary Bakery, which support people with barriers to employment into training and jobs in hospitality.
 
Sophie Smith, Chief People Officer, Compass Group UK & Ireland commented: “This report captures the tangible outcomes of our efforts and brings to life the Social Value we create. I’m proud to be part of an organisation that doesn’t just lead the industry, but leads with heart - setting the standard for doing business the right way.”
 
Lucy Hunt, Corporate Affairs and Social Value Director at Compass Group UK & Ireland said; "Since we first started measuring our Social Value in 2021, we've been able to track our tangible contributions to society. The increase year on year signifies that Social Value is becoming more embedded in our business, as a result of the positive interventions we are making. This report allows us to reflect on what is working and where we need to do more. We are delighted to have CH&CO join our business – who have a strong Social Value ethos, enabling us to learn from each other and continue to drive forward this activity even further.”
 
Guy Battle, CEO at Social Value Portal said: “Compass Group UK & Ireland continues to raise the bar on Social Value delivery, grounded in transparent reporting through the TOM System™. Compass is setting a clear benchmark for what responsible business looks like. We’re proud to support their journey and the meaningful impact it’s making in communities across the UK.”
 
The full report is available here

Sodexo Live! appoints Jason Mumby as Growth Director for UK & Ireland #

Sodexo Live! has announced the appointment of Jason Mumby as Growth Director for the UK & Ireland. Jason will lead the business development and sales functions, report to Claire Morris, CEO of Sodexo Live! UK & Ireland and join the executive team. 

Jason brings a wealth of experience in client development and strategic partnerships within the events, foodservice, and hospitality industries. Most recently, he served as Client Development and Strategy Director at an industry competitor, where he played a pivotal role in driving business growth and strengthening client relationships. His earlier career includes significant roles at Costa Coffee, where he contributed to the brand’s expansion and commercial success. 

In his new role, Jason will focus on accelerating the growth of Sodexo Live! across its event, sports, leisure and cultural venue portfolio. The business works with some of the UK and Ireland’s most iconic venues and events, including Ascot Racecourse, Henley Royal Regatta, Virgin Atlantic, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, The Royal Academy of Arts, Fulham FC & Brighton & Hove Albion FC to deliver world-class food and hospitality experiences. 

Claire Morris, CEO, Sodexo Live! UK & Ireland said: “I am delighted to welcome Jason to the team at such an important moment for our business. His extensive experience and proven track record in client development will be key to driving our growth mindset, strengthening our market presence, and enhancing our sales strategy. Jason’s leadership will help us build on the strong foundations laid by our talented team, who have shown outstanding commitment throughout this past year.” 

Jason Mumby, Growth Director, Sodexo Live! UK & Ireland added: “Joining Sodexo Live! at this exciting stage is a fantastic opportunity. The business has a strong reputation for delivering exceptional experiences at some of the UK and Ireland’s most iconic venues. I’m looking forward to working with the team to expand our reach, strengthen client partnerships, and bring innovative, insight-driven solutions to the live events and hospitality sector.” 

Sodexo Live! supports some of the world’s most iconic sports clubs, events, and stadia. Internationally, it delivers major events such as Roland Garros, the Tour de France, the Miami Open, and various Grand Prix races. It also manages venues like the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells in California, and prominent stadiums across the USA, including the Hard Rock Stadium (home of the Miami Dolphins) and T-Mobile Park (home of the Seattle Mariners).

Restaurant Associates Venues retains catering partnership with Imperial War Museums #

Premium hospitality business Restaurant Associates has secured a new five-year contract to continue delivering hospitality and retail catering services across all five Imperial War Museums sites - IWM London, IWM Duxford, HMS Belfast, Churchill War Rooms and IWM North. Through this renewed partnership, Restaurant Associates will manage food and beverage operations across the cafés and restaurants, while also offering tailored dining experiences for corporate events and private functions at each of these iconic venues.
 
Dirk Talsma, Managing Director of Restaurant Associates Venues, expressed his enthusiasm for the renewed collaboration: “We are delighted to reaffirm our partnership with IWM and have the opportunity to take their hospitality proposition into a new stage of development. We have exciting food innovation plans to create immersive culinary experiences that bring the powerful stories of the Imperial War Museums to life. I am incredibly proud of what our teams have achieved so far and I have no doubt that our relationship will continue to grow from strength to strength.”
 
Keeping with Restaurant Associates’ core values, the focus will remain on serving freshly prepared, seasonal and delicious food. As part of the refreshed offer, the rollout of Blend 53 coffee across all venues will also support local communities, with £1 from every case of coffee donated to grassroots charities. This initiative proudly supports Foodinate, a UK-based organisation committed to tackling food poverty and homelessness.
 
Guest can look forward to the debut of a fresh array of menus curated by former MasterChef Professionals winner and National Chef of the Year, Steve Groves. As part of the new contract, Restaurant Associates will also work closely with IWM on ambitious plans to enhance and refurbish the dining spaces across all five venues – aiming to deliver a more memorable and all-encompassing experience for museum visitors, so they remain immersed in history throughout their visit.