Sodexo acquires Centerplate for £512m

Sodexo has acquired Centerplate in a £512m ($675m) deal that will further strengthen its presence in UK sports and leisure.

With global revenues of £758m ($998m) for the year to June 2017, Centerplate is strongest in North America where its business is made up of convention centres, stadia and leisure.

In the UK the business, which bought the Lindley Group in April 2013, operates at sports venues including Celtic Football Club, Sunderland Football Club, Leicester Tigers RFC and Essex County Cricket Club.

The deal will double Sodexo's presence in sports and leisure globally.
Centerplate's European operations will be integrated into Sodexo's existing Sports & Leisure business, while Centerplate chief executive Chris Verros will lead the new combined business in the United States.

Pierre Henry, chief executive for sports and leisure worldwide for Sodexo, said: "This acquisition is another step in our long-term strategy to become a leading player in every market in which we are present. Centerplate is an ideal partner with highly professional, dedicated teams who bring a wealth of industry expertise. We look forward to working together with Centerplate to bring exceptional quality of life experiences to tens of thousands of fans and spectators around the world."

Chris Verros, Centerplate chief executive, added: "With Sodexo, we share the same vision to deliver a unique and memorable service for our clients and guests through our tailored food and beverage programs, unique hospitality design, rewarding event and retail services. Centerplate's clients will benefit from Sodexo's global capabilities, solution innovations, other on site services and geographic reach."

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