Our history

Pierre Bellon created Sodexho in Marseille, a start-up company specializing in providing foodservices to institutions, businesses, schools and hospitals.

Sodexho signs its first major contract with the French Research Institute for Atomic Energy (the CEA). The contract establishes a lasting relationship as, 50 years later, Sodexo is still delivering food services at the CEA’s site in Pierrelatte.

Sodexho wins its first contract in the “multiservice” market with the CNES in French Guiana. This signalled Sodexho’s entry into the remote site management business.

Sodexho serves its first school meals during a year when Sodexho also won contracts in companies and government services.