Chartwells Independent, our independent school catering division, has cemented its leading position in the sector by securing 25 substantive contract extensions with its school partners, accumulating to 128 contract years.
The agreements, combined with a record year for new business wins, reflects our dedication to supporting clients in managing the challenging headwinds facing the industry, while consistently delivering a quality service for the schools and pupils we serve.
The contract extensions, which have been spearheaded by our Partnership Director, Jason Bendell, include a host of prestigious schools, such as Queens College, London; Halstead Preparatory School for Girls; and Derby High School, Derby, to name a few.
Enrichening learning through our Beyond the Chartwells Kitchen programme, delivered by our award-winning nutrition team, combined with the standard of food served under our quality, simple, delicious mantra, and our industry-leading approach to sustainability, were all key drivers behind the extensions.
In addition, the agreements will also see us make several investments to refurbish kitchen facilities, dining areas, and introduce new technology.
Richard Tillett, Principal at Queen’s College, London said: “The dining experience in school is a key part of the pupil experience, so it’s naturally something we take great care to get right. In Chartwells Independent we have found the perfect partner. Their team is an extension of our own, taking time to truly understand our specific needs and those of our pupils, as well as providing educational support around aspects of the food system. We very much look forward to continuing working with them for many years to come.”
Noelle Jones, Managing Director, Chartwells Independent, said: “We are incredibly proud to have extended our partnership with such a prestigious list of schools from across the UK. Our frontline teams are the foundation of our business serving fantastic food every day. Their hard work, dedication, and skill, combined with the processes, procedures, and central support functions a business of our scale can provide, has been the driving force behind these extensions.
“Make no mistake, the current operating environment is incredibly challenging, but by focusing on meeting the specific needs of the schools and pupils we serve, while driving innovation around education, sustainability, and food quality, we have built a strong platform from which we can build momentum and grow our presence in this market.”