Now in its 26th year, the event which was established in 1988, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors over the course of the weekend.
Centerplate’s appointment by the airshow’s organisers, Sunderland Live, follows a competitive tender for the catering contract which is expected to generate a turnover in excess of £1.5 million during the three year deal.
At this year’s Sunderland International Airshow event (July 25-27), Centerplate will be responsible for catering at the Hospitality Village, which includes three VIP suites – the Lynx and Spitfire Lounges, and the Take Off Marquee - plus a Family Zone and Premium Seating area; as well the installation of nine concession units in the general public areas of Cliffe Park and the operation of three public bars.
The concessions will include a selection of Centerplate’s own established branded retail food outlets such as Frank’s Original New York Streetdogs, Henry’s Chicken, FGB – Flaming Good Burger, and Taco de Caso’s alongside a fish & chip shop and a noodle bar which will include healthier and vegetarian options on its menu.
Centerplate will also be providing the catering for the pilots participating in the airshow and will be using local suppliers to provide the ingredients for much of the fayre on offer, such as the artisan Northumbrian sausage breakfast bap.
Chris Alexander, chief operating officer at Sunderland Live, said: “Centerplate’s innovative approach and their experience, expertise and insights in managing large-scale outdoor events match all of the criteria we were looking for in selecting a catering partner to deliver the food and service offering at the Sunderland International Airshow.”
Jonathan Davies, commercial director at Centerplate’s UK division, added: “The Sunderland International Airshow provides us with a great opportunity to showcase the capability of Centerplate’s outdoor event division which continues to go from strength to strength.”