Caterers collaborate on platform to support former employees

A group of caterers has joined forces to launch a platform offering support to those who have lost their jobs as a result of the economic fallout caused by Covid-19.

Some 20 of the biggest names in foodservice have collaborated on Food Service Circle FSC, an online platform that allows those who have lost their jobs to stay connected and continue to develop their skills as they seek employment.

Businesses such as Bartlett Mitchell, BaxterStorey, CH&Co, Compass Group, and Genuine Dining Co will support the site with content, which will feature free training, advice and job opportunities along with webinars and insights from industry leaders.

The initiative came about after members of UKHospitality’s Foodservice Forum decided something must be done for those who have been made redundant or face significantly reduced hours. Of the 300,000 employees in the foodservice sector it is predicted that some 20% will lose their jobs.

Wendy Bartlett, founder of Bartlett Mitchell and board member of UKHospitality, said: “It has been heart-breaking to see how the pandemic has impacted some of the incredibly talented and loyal team members across all of our organisations.

“We all have a real sense of duty to the people who have worked so hard to make our businesses the successes they have been, that’s why it was important for all of us to create this cohesive support network. I must credit my competitors for coming together in this crisis to support our industry.”

BaxterStorey chief executive Noel Mahony added: “As we start the process of rebuilding our businesses, it is incumbent on all of us to support those who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own.

“Having witnessed the success of collaboration through UK Hospitality, it was clear to me that we should come together as a sector to deploy all of our resources to support those out of work.”

The companies involved in FSC are: ABM Catering, Amadeus, Aramark, Artizian, Bartlett Mitchell, BaxterStorey, Blue Apple, Celtic Catering, Churchill, CH&Co, Compass Group, Elior, Genuine Dining Co, Graysons, Harrison, Houston and Hawkes, Lexington, OCS, Sodexo, Susa Comms and Vacherin.