Recognising the power of partnership, this year’s conference focused on three key themes: enhancing understanding of Sodexo’s operations, increasing collaboration and innovation as well as recognising shared progress on sustainability and social impact programmes.
Attended by representatives from its supply chain, including SMEs, Sodexo’s Partners with Purpose conference facilitated insightful discussions and sessions with senior leaders from across the company. During the conference four awards were given out:
- Supplier of the Year – Bunzl: They’ve shown strong commitment, proactivity and helped increase managed spend from 28% to nearly 35%.
- Diverse Supplier of the Year – The MCL Group: They’ve achieved early cost savings, introduced scalable innovations, and supported Sodexo’s sustainability goals.
- Innovative Supplier of the Year – Planteria Group: Their innovative products and collaborative approach have significantly supported Sodexo's growth objectives.
- Service Excellence Supplier of the Year – Dole: Their support for a high-profile vegan event in Liverpool, sourcing produce within 10–15 miles enabled Sodexo to deliver exceptional food experiences under tight constraints.
Jean Renton, chief operating officer at Sodexo UK & Ireland, said: “Our supply partners play a vital role in enabling us to deliver on our purpose every day. Partners with Purpose has become a key event that strengthens collaboration, celebrates progress, and aligns on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“What makes our proposition truly unique is the strength of our long-term relationships with our most critical and strategic suppliers. Their reliability, innovation, creativity, and partnership is deeply valued.”