Institutional food services companies play a crucial role in providing meals to various sectors such as schools, hospitals, businesses, and government organizations. In the United Kingdom, the industry is highly competitive, with several companies vying for market share. In this report, we will delve into the top 10 institutional food services companies in the UK in 2025, highlighting key financial data, industry insights, and trends.
1. Compass Group
Compass Group is a global leader in the institutional food services industry, with a strong presence in the UK market. The company provides catering services to a wide range of clients, including schools, hospitals, and corporate offices. In 2025, Compass Group continues to dominate the market with its innovative food solutions and focus on sustainability. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £25.2 billion, reflecting its strong financial performance.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £25.2 billion
– Market Share: 20%
– Number of Employees: 600,000
2. Sodexo
Sodexo is another major player in the institutional food services industry, offering a diverse range of services such as catering, facilities management, and employee benefits. The company has a significant presence in the UK market, serving clients in various sectors. In 2025, Sodexo focuses on expanding its digital capabilities and enhancing customer experience. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £18.5 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £18.5 billion
– Market Share: 15%
– Number of Employees: 470,000
3. Aramark
Aramark is a leading provider of food services, facilities management, and uniform services in the UK. The company serves clients in sectors such as healthcare, education, and business. In 2025, Aramark continues to innovate its offerings and focus on sustainability practices. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £12.8 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £12.8 billion
– Market Share: 10%
– Number of Employees: 300,000
4. Elior Group
Elior Group is a prominent player in the institutional food services industry, with a strong presence in the UK market. The company offers catering services, concession operations, and support services to clients across various sectors. In 2025, Elior Group emphasizes culinary innovation and sustainable practices. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £9.6 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £9.6 billion
– Market Share: 8%
– Number of Employees: 240,000
5. Bidfood
Bidfood is a leading foodservice distributor in the UK, supplying a wide range of food products to institutional clients such as restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities. The company focuses on providing high-quality products and services to meet the diverse needs of its customers. In 2025, Bidfood continues to expand its product portfolio and enhance its distribution network. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £7.3 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £7.3 billion
– Market Share: 6%
– Number of Employees: 180,000
6. ISS Group
ISS Group is a global facilities services company that also offers food services to institutional clients in the UK. The company provides catering, cleaning, and maintenance services to a diverse range of sectors. In 2025, ISS Group focuses on digital transformation and sustainability initiatives to drive growth. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £6.9 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £6.9 billion
– Market Share: 5%
– Number of Employees: 160,000
7. BaxterStorey
BaxterStorey is a leading independent caterer in the UK, specializing in providing food services to corporate clients and public sector organizations. The company is known for its high-quality cuisine and innovative dining concepts. In 2025, BaxterStorey focuses on culinary excellence and sustainability practices. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £5.5 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £5.5 billion
– Market Share: 4%
– Number of Employees: 140,000
8. CH&CO
CH&CO is a catering and hospitality company that serves institutional clients in the UK, including schools, hospitals, and event venues. The company offers a wide range of catering services, from fine dining to casual dining options. In 2025, CH&CO focuses on customer-centric solutions and sustainable practices. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £4.2 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £4.2 billion
– Market Share: 3%
– Number of Employees: 100,000
9. Amadeus
Amadeus is a leading provider of catering and hospitality services in the UK, specializing in event catering and venue management. The company serves clients in sectors such as sports, leisure, and entertainment. In 2025, Amadeus focuses on culinary innovation and enhancing customer experience. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £3.8 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £3.8 billion
– Market Share: 3%
– Number of Employees: 90,000
10. OCS Group
OCS Group is a facilities management company that also provides food services to institutional clients in the UK. The company offers catering, cleaning, and security services to a wide range of sectors. In 2025, OCS Group focuses on digital transformation and sustainability practices. The company’s revenue in 2024 was £2.5 billion.
Key Financials:
– Revenue: £2.5 billion
– Market Share: 2%
– Number of Employees: 60,000
In conclusion, the institutional food services industry in the United Kingdom is highly competitive, with several companies vying for market share. The top 10 companies highlighted in this report continue to innovate their offerings, focus on sustainability practices, and provide high-quality services to a diverse range of clients. As the industry evolves, these companies are well-positioned to meet the changing needs of institutional food service clients in the UK.
