ESS has worked with Thames Valley Police since 2022, providing catering and hospitality services at the force’s training centre in Sulhamstead, as well as planned and emergency operational feeding across the region. The contract has been renewed for a further three years.
Under the new contract, ESS will complete a refurbishment of the training centre’s restaurant counters where it provides a range of hot and chilled breakfast and lunch options, as well as cakes, pastries and hot drinks. ESS will also cater for the force’s annual open day and twice-yearly recruitment events.
The operational feeding provision varies by event, with the full range including hot and continental style breakfasts, packed meals and a variety of snacks, as well as hot meals and salads. The company will introduce social value initiatives, including providing food for local soup kitchens in Newbury and Oxford.
Richard Jones, managing director – ESS Government, said: “Over the past three years, we’ve built great relationships within the force and worked collaboratively to deliver high-quality services on a daily basis, as well as providing operational feeding for numerous complex and important events. We look forward to building on this work throughout the duration of the new contract.”
The contract award reinforces ESS’ police portfolio which also includes City of London Police, Bedfordshire Police, Hertfordshire Constabulary, the Metropolitan Police, Surrey Police, Sussex Police and West Midlands Police.
ESS has supported officers on duty at events including the state funeral for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, high-security political summits, music festivals and the annual Royal Ascot meeting.
Thom Wilson, procurement manager operational at Thames Valley Police, added: “Since 2022, they have provided a reliable and professional catering service, supporting both day‑to‑day operations and a number of high‑profile events. The contract renewal reflects the strong working relationship established and ESS’ consistent delivery, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration.”