ELEVATING EVENT SPACES THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
Established partners since 2016, the contract now extends into the next decade. Chartwells Universities has worked with Northumbria University to turn event and conference spaces into lively, food-centric hubs that bring the campus community together. What began as an effort to revitalise underutilised spaces has evolved into vibrant environments where exceptional food and drink are at the heart of the experience. Together, we’ve fostered spaces where students, staff, and visitors connect, collaborate and feel inspired.
As a food and beverage partner, we play a crucial role in elevating the university experience through outstanding cuisine, impeccable service and a welcoming atmosphere. Beyond the food, we work hand in hand with Northumbria University to ensure that their event spaces are seamlessly integrated to inspire and facilitate a wide range of client needs.
THE SCALE OF OPERATIONS
Northumbria University’s bustling campus is home to over 30,000 students, and its event spaces are a hive of activity. From academic exhibitions and corporate meetings to summer schools and music workshops, no two days are the same. Food is integral to this ecosystem, supporting conferences, exhibitions, drinks receptions and fine dining with a “nothing is off the table” approach.
YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITY
The University campus is alive with student-focused events during term time, while summer brings a whole new level of excitement with external conferences, and cultural workshops. As part of our partnership with Northumbria University, we support these quieter periods with bespoke hospitality packages, thoughtful business planning, and expert event execution. By working together, we ensure that Northumbria University’s event spaces stay active and productive year-round. Our combined efforts have led to a significant increase in the number and variety of events hosted, solidifying Northumbria University as a top destination for both commercial conferences and academic functions.
COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
Collaborating with local charities and businesses forms a vital part of our strategy to create positive social impact. A standout example is our partnership with Smart Works Charity, which empowers women to enter employment. Together, we successfully hosted an event that brought together over 200 attendees, showcasing the transformative power of community engagement. Initiatives like this highlight Northumbria University's role as a thriving community hub while reinforcing its dedication to delivering social value. Aligned with Compass UK & Ireland's "Mission to a Million" campaign, our Social Promise aims to support one million people by fostering opportunities through job creation, education, training, and meaningful community and charitable projects.
THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES
Behind every successful event is a dedicated team, the Venues at Northumbria team offer dedicated conference and event support, working with skilled chefs crafting bespoke menus to on-the-ground staff delivering exceptional student service; teamwork is at the heart of our operations. Clear communication and an unwavering commitment to excellence define our approach. As the event landscape continues to evolve, their team remains agile, always ready to respond to new challenges and creating new opportunities.
SUPPORTING GROWTH AND DIVERSITY
Northumbria University’s events have witnessed a remarkable growth of over 600% since 2016, a testament to the immense potential of university spaces to host a diverse array of events while unlocking commercial opportunities. By transforming areas beyond the traditional student experience, Northumbria University has created an innovative blueprint for maximising its resources.
Chartwells Universities is proud to support this growth by offering tailored food and beverage services, ensuring that each event vision is brought to life. From intimate gatherings to large-scale conferences, our customised approach ensures that no detail is overlooked. We actively cater to the unique needs of each event –whether it's enhancing the accessibility of our materials for neurodiverse clients or seamlessly accommodating dietary preferences as a standard practice.
It’s been a journey to get here, shaped by many external factors –including the challenges posed by COVID. These experiences have driven us to refine our services and strengthen our resilience, ensuring we can adapt to an ever-changing landscape and deliver exceptional outcomes for our partners. Through this collaboration, we don't just host events; we create experiences that attract a wide range of audiences, including students, faculty, and the broader community. Together, we are redefining the possibilities of university spaces, amplifying their role as vibrant hubs for connection, inspiration, and innovation.
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
By leaning on Chartwells Universities as a trusted partner, universities can harness their expertise in food services and hospitality to maximise commercial opportunities. Together, we create innovative solutions that not only enhance student experiences but also drive sustainable growth and profitability.
Barry Nicholson
Head of Conference & Event Operations, Northumbria University
“Our partnership with Chartwells Universities has been invaluable in creating an atmosphere that blends the best of hospitality with exceptional event services. By working with the team at a local level, while calling on the wider expertise of Compass UK & Ireland, we are able to offer our students, staff and event clients the best catering solutions for their needs. Their adaptability and knowledge mean we can confidently host a wide variety of conferences and events from smaller meetings to conferences and exhibitions for thousands of visitors. On the day-to-day retail catering offer we use their expertise and work closely on F&B offers, price points, marketing and technology via the Uni Food Hub App to ensure the best possible on-campus experience.”
Ailsa Ingham
Digital and Events Manager, Northumbria University
“Working with Chartwells Universities has truly transformed our events. Their seamless coordination and exceptional service ensure our events are a huge success from initial enquiry to on-the-day. We’re excited about the future we’re building together, implementing their knowledge to build packages and attract/maintain event clients in our current and new markets. Their innovative approach and dedication to developing their services align perfectly with our goals for expanding our events offering. We are confident that with their support, we will continue to host successful events that leave a lasting impression on delegates and visitors to campus.