Churchill Catering – Saputo UK Case Study

Saputo Dairy UK is a leading producer of cheese, spreads, and other dairy products, supplying major supermarkets worldwide. Their portfolio includes well-known brands such as Cathedral City Cheddar, Clover, and Frylight. In early 2020, Saputo UK sought a trusted catering partner to deliver high-quality colleague dining across four key locations in England.

Contract Scope

Churchill Catering was awarded the contract in January 2020 to provide catering services at:

  • Weybridge, Head Office: Monday to Friday, breakfast, lunch, and a coffee shop offer.
  • Davidstow, Production Site: Breakfast and lunch, seven days a week, with vending options for night shifts.
  • Kirkby, Distribution Site: Breakfast and lunch, five days a week, with vending for night shifts and weekends.
  • Nuneaton, Distribution Site: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and nightshift service, seven days a week.

The contract officially mobilised on 1st April 2020, during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Challenges & Solutions

Mobilisation coincided with the UK’s first national lockdown. While office-based colleagues worked remotely, production and distribution sites remained operational as essential contributors to the national food supply chain. Key challenges included:

  • Site access restrictions due to COVID-19 testing protocols
  • Supply chain disruptions
  • Social distancing and enhanced hygiene requirements

Churchill’s operations team worked closely with in-house health and safety advisors and procurement specialists to ensure a smooth mobilisation. Despite the circumstances, all colleagues were successfully catered for from Day One.

TUPE Transfer

Approximately 30 colleagues transferred under TUPE regulations. Churchill ensured a smooth transition, maintaining service continuity and supporting team members throughout the process.

Testimonial

“I just wanted to take a moment to shout about the fantastic work the team are doing in the restaurant. Their warmth, friendliness, and sincerity genuinely brighten our daily lives in the office. Not only do I look forward to seeing what’s on the lunch menu each day, but I also feel proud to bring external visitors to the café—it’s a great way to showcase our food and the welcoming atmosphere we have here. They make the office and restaurant a genuinely great place to be.” The client

Service Evolution

As restrictions eased, Churchill Catering expanded its offer to meet evolving colleague needs:

  • Menu Diversification: From full English breakfasts to vibrant deli bars with fresh salads and sandwiches.
  • Corporate Hospitality: Tailored catering for meetings and events.
  • Premium Coffee Experience: Introduction of Lavazza barista coffee at the Weybridge head office.

Engagement and Wellbeing

Churchill works closely with Saputo’s contract owners to support:

  • Wellbeing initiatives
  • Celebrations of national events such as the Jubilee and Pride

Recognition

Churchill’s onsite teams have been shortlisted for Saputo’s annual awards, recognising their dedication and excellence in service delivery. In 2023, Saputo extended the contract for an additional two years, reflecting the strength of the partnership.

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