Sodexo Live! secures 10 year partnership extension with Kent Cricket
Kent Cricket has awarded Sodexo Live! a new 10 year, multi-million pound contract extension, continuing a partnership that first began in 2017.
The contract renewal reflects the strength and ambition of the partnership across both of Kent Cricket’s Canterbury and Beckenham grounds.
Sodexo Live! will continue to provide full coverage of the club’s hospitality and catering operations. This includes matchday hospitality, retail services, and a growing conferences & events business. The contract is forecast for strong growth across both venues as the partnership enters its next decade.
An experienced Sodexo Live! team continues to underpin the offer at Kent Cricket, together the core venue team brings more than 50 years of expertise to the club and is supported by a wider casual team of more than 50 Experience Makers.
Significant investment will support the continued evolution of the partnership. Sodexo Live! is investing across the grounds, complementing the Club’s recent kitchen upgrades. The improvements, which increased capacity and introduced new ventilation, have transformed the kitchens into more sustainable and higher performing spaces, enabling the delivery of an enhanced food offering.
At Canterbury, two new container bars are currently being built to replace an older marquee setup and a third-party concession operator. The new units will elevate the fan experience, improve operational delivery, and support the shared aim of hosting more outdoor non-match day events. The Club is particularly keen to grow its events portfolio, increase local supplier engagement, and spotlight the Garden of Kent’s produce.
A redevelopment of the hospitality suites at the Spitfire Ground will begin in January 2027, marking a key milestone in the club’s long term improvement plans.
Menu development for 2026/27 continues to focus on traditional homecooked favourites, nostalgic desserts, and a refreshed street food offer with improved variety delivered through retail concessions.
The club is also preparing to host three concerts in August 2026 as part of a new five-year partnership with Canterbury Live, featuring headline performances from JLS, Becky Hill and Madness.
We are delighted to extend our longstanding partnership with Kent Cricket. Our teams at Canterbury and Beckenham are deeply rooted in the community and have created exceptional moments for fans and guests for many years.
As we look ahead to the next decade, our joint investments and shared commitment to sustainability, growth and high-quality experiences will ensure we continue to elevate what Kent Cricket has to offer both on matchdays and throughout the year.”
Extending our partnership with Sodexo Live! marks an exciting chapter for Kent Cricket. Their teams at Canterbury and Beckenham have become an integral part of our matchday and event experience.
We’re very energised and excited by the ambition of the Sodexo Live! team. We look forward to working together to continue to improve and enhance the experience for our members, supporters and visitors.
Sodexo Live! supports some of the UK’s most iconic music, cultural and sporting events, plus conference centres and airport lounges, by delivering world class hospitality and food services. Producing outstanding catering and event services, it serves some of the most prestigious venues across Britain, delivering amazing experiences that go beyond the remarkable food it creates. Globally, partners include The Scottish Open, Ascot Racecourse, the Tour de France, and exceptional venues such as the Eiffel Tower Restaurants, the Hard Rock Stadium, and the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.
Find out more about Sodexo Live!