Phil Smith, managing director of tech and services at Sodexo UK & Ireland, gave attendees an overview of the company’s net zero roadmap, the targets within its commitment and the progress it has already made to reduce carbon emissions by a third as announced in January 2023.
Stephen Beech, managing director of Sodexo subsidiary Entegra UK & Ireland, Francois Blanckaert, chief procurement officer; and Patrick Forbes, head of supply management at Sodexo UK & Ireland, all provided an overview of the importance of supply chain partners in achieving Sodexo and Entegra's goals for collaboration, tackling social value and being market leaders together.
Paul Anstey, chief executive for Sodexo UK & Ireland’s Government business, highlighted initiatives such as The Village, developed for military bases to elevate the Lived Experience and bring together the whole force.
Sean Haley, chief executive of Sodexo UK and Ireland, commented: “Preserving and developing long-term partnerships with our suppliers is so important. All our suppliers have a part to play in our ambitious plans for growth while maintaining a focus on purpose, so it is vital we are open, honest and transparent about our progress, priorities and plans so we can work in true partnership to have a positive impact on the communities we all live, work and serve.
“Just like Sodexo, our supply partners need to ensure that these practices and commitments are reflected in their businesses too. We simply cannot achieve our goal of a positive social impact unless we all share the same ambition and work together to realise it.
“The conference was a great success and it was fantastic to welcome them to Headingley Stadium and get together in person at our own client venue so they could experience some brilliant hospitality by Sodexo Live.”
The conference ended with some suppliers being recognised by Sodexo for their efforts in supporting the organisation and its commitments. The winners were:
- Service Spirit: Excellence in service award winner was Roydon Recycling
- Team Spirit: Partnership with purpose award winner was Lyreco
- Spirit of Progress: Positive impact award winner was Change Please
- SME of the year winner was Thomas Kneale
- Supplier of the year was Brakes