Sodexo has won a 10-year contract with the new Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

Under the £30m deal Sodexo partners with Farnborough International at the new, purpose-built event space – at the home of the world-renowned Farnborough International Airshow – when it opens in February 2018.

Sodexo will deliver conference, banqueting and events services at the new Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, in addition to providing flexible retail services tailored specifically to each event. Sodexo Prestige Venues & Events will support sales and marketing activity.

The Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre will become the largest exhibition space in the south of England outside London, with 12,500sqm event space, 2,500 conference seats and 14 multi-purpose function rooms.

The birthplace of British aviation, the venue is directly accessible by air, as well as being convenient for Heathrow and Gatwick airports. Farnborough is 35 minutes by train from London Waterloo.

Chris Bray, CEO Sports & Leisure, Sodexo UK & Ireland, said: “This new partnership with Farnborough International will see Sodexo bringing its innovative and sustainable ethos to what will be a flagship exhibition space in south of England. With its rich heritage and unrivalled accessibility by air, Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre promises to be a unique business destination. The flexible event space can be instantly tailored to different events every day, and promises to be a true pace-setter in the industry.

“Through our award-winning chefs, track record of building positive relationships with local suppliers and our inventive retail pop-ups at major events like Royal Ascot, we will create memorable food and beverage experiences for customers and delegates.”

Michael Watton, Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre venue director said: “We’re delighted to be working with Sodexo Sports & Leisure as part of our development. They were chosen because of their proven and tested ability and reputation to deliver first class food and service.

“They have taken the essence of our brand – pioneers in aviation – and interpreted it through a new and vibrant range of food and drink offers. Although still at concept stage, event delegates and visitors will be excited by the variety of unique concepts specifically developed for us. We are looking forward to working in partnership with Sodexo on delivering industry leading event experiences for our clients.”

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