This past week, I had the immense honour of serving as a judge for the Contract Catering Awards 2025—an evening dedicated to celebrating the very best in our industry. Hosted in London, this prestigious event brought together the brightest talents, the most innovative teams, and the organisations driving real change in the contract catering sector.
It was a privilege not only to judge such a competitive field of nominations but also to witness first-hand the dedication, creativity, and passion that define our industry. Every finalist had a compelling story—whether it was a team revolutionising workplace dining, a chef championing sustainability, or a leader inspiring the next generation. Each nomination underscored the evolving landscape of contract catering, where customer experience, operational excellence, and responsible business practices go hand in hand.
A Special Honour for Vic Laws MBE
The evening was made even more special by sharing a table with Vic Laws MBE, a stalwart of our industry and, on the night, the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Few individuals have made such a lasting impact on contract catering as Vic, and his award was richly deserved. His decades of dedication, mentorship, and leadership have shaped the industry in profound ways, and it was wonderful to see him recognised on such a grand stage.
Congratulations to All the Winners and Nominees
To all the winners—congratulations! Each award represented hard work, ingenuity, and a commitment to raising the bar. But beyond the trophies, it’s important to acknowledge every nominee. The strength of this industry lies in its people, and the sheer calibre of this year’s contenders speaks volumes about the direction in which contract catering is heading.
The Role of Uncommon Sense in Supporting Excellence
Events like these remind us why investing in talent, leadership, and forward-thinking strategies is essential. At Uncommon Sense Ltd, we believe that the people within an organisation are its most valuable asset. Whether it’s through mentoring, non-executive director services, or now, through our tailored recruitment services, we’re committed to helping businesses in hospitality, foodservice, and facilities management attract, retain, and develop exceptional talent.
The Contract Catering Awards 2025 showcased the power of great people—leaders who inspire, teams who innovate, and businesses that push boundaries. If you’re looking to strengthen your team with the right talent or want to explore ways to develop your people, Uncommon Sense is here to help.
➡️ Learn more about how we’re supporting businesses in contract catering and beyond:
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on another fantastic awards evening, one thing is clear: the future of contract catering is bright. With the right people, the right leadership, and the right mindset, our industry will continue to evolve, thrive, and deliver outstanding experiences.
Here’s to another year of excellence, innovation, and, of course, a little Uncommon Sense along the way.
