Six past the post for Sodexo and Ascot at national awards

Sodexo won four categories and two merits with Ascot at the National Racecourse Catering Awards this month.

The annual awards recognise excellence in catering at racing venues throughout the UK. Fine dining, innovative work with suppliers and local products, and training and development were all among reasons Sodexo and Ascot Racecourse were so successful at the ceremony, held at Windsor Racecourse.

The Ascot Academy won The People’s Educational Award for its unique work training and developing a casual workforce of 5,000 to deliver world-class customer service.

In the Best food supplier to a racecourse category, Sodexo’s work with specialist patisserie and breads provider Zuidam was recognsied for the new bespoke range of desserts and afternoon teas launched this year at Royal Ascot.

Partnerships with AB InBev/Stella Artois and Windsor & Eton Brewery saw Sodexo and Ascot collect the Best drinks supplier to a racecourse and the Best local supplier to a racecourse respectively.

Sodexo’s On 5 restaurant was awarded a certificate of merit in the Best fine dining experience category.

The introduction of Lavazza coffee to Ascot Racecourse also picked up a cerfiticate of merit, for Best new product used at a racecourse.

Austin Tilsley, Sodexo Sports & Leisure operations director, said, “These awards are excellent recognition of our team at Ascot Racecourse who work hard with the client and suppliers, and develop our employees to deliver world-class service to customers. Our work with both large and local suppliers means visitors to Ascot can enjoy popular brands and bespoke products at the venue which can only improve their experience of Ascot.”