Until very recently, Robyn continued to be actively involved in many aspects of the company and the wider industry.
Robyn founded Charlton House in 1991 from the bedroom of her house, and with her husband Tim, who joined as chairman in 2000, built it up to be one of the largest independent foodservice companies in the UK, with an annual turnover of £120m.
This year, Robyn and Tim merged their company with Host Catermasters retaining the CH&Co name, with Tim becoming chairman of the new company and Robyn remaining as founder.
Bill Toner, chief executive of CH&Co Group, said: “Robyn was truly indomitable, never letting anything get in her way. Not only did she develop a wonderful company that was well-known for its exacting food, standards and service, she developed a skilled team who have all gained significantly from her leadership. She will be hugely missed.”
Caroline Fry, deputy group CEO, who worked with Robyn for 21 years, added: “Robyn was an inspiring woman to work for. Her vision, determination, style and guidance helped me and many others develop our careers in more ways than we could have imagined. She was always a firm believer in the abilities of her people and her legacy continues in CH&Co Group. We will miss her enormously.”
Robyn is survived by her husband Tim, and their children, Tabitha and Blake.