Bartlett Mitchell, one of the UK’s leading independent caterers, has today announced a 16% increase in turnover, driven through organic growth and strong client retention.
For the period ending 31 October 2018, the company has posted a record £45.5m in overall turnover.
It has invested heavily in its growth over the last year, both through the recruitment of key personnel at all levels, and a stronger focus on its regional operational development.
As a result, Bartlett Mitchell has secured significant contracts in the legal, financial and advertising sectors in London and the north of England - totaling £10m in annual value of contract wins. It has also maintained its industry leading 98% client retention rate.
The company has made a number of high-profile appointments, including Hebe Richardson as wellness manager, and Lauren Spencer as people experience director, as well as creating a new dedicated mobilisation team to support new business wins.
It has also opened numerous new client sites across London and the North and increased its workforce by almost 10%.
To support its sustainable growth, Bartlett Mitchell has also invested in additional communications functions to support the wellbeing of its team members. This includes the Yapster app, a platform which enables direct communication between all team members, and expanded the digital skills on the marketing team. Since Yapster’s introduction, the company has seen a 30% increase in employee engagement and a significant uplift in employee retention.
The company has also launched additional people development programmes within the business to support existing reward and recognition initiatives. During the period, the company introduced an ‘Inspiring Women’ award which recognises women who have excelled professionally and inspired others to succeed. In addition, it launched a ’30 under 30’ programme, aiming to celebrate the achievements of young talent within the Bartlett Mitchell business.
The company was presented with the prestigious Princess Royal Training award by City and Guilds Group – the first caterer to achieve this.
Wendy Bartlett, founder and chair, Bartlett Mitchell, said, “It’s always been our ambition to grow steadily and organically as it allows us to provide greater opportunities for our BM family. We are delighted that this has been achieved through new wins, client retention and through the hard work and talent of our brilliant team members. They are ultimately the ones to thank for delivering on our promises to clients.
“This year has been fantastic as we have seen a number of large and diverse clients place their trust in us as their catering providers.
“Having a profitable and financially stable business, with cash in the bank and no borrowings, means that we can continue to invest primarily in our team and in new exciting technology.'
Bartlett concluded, “This ultimately means that our BM family can deliver the very best service and the most innovative fresh food. We built the business on our ‘fundamentally food’ principles and Ian and I are delighted to say that our legacy and values remain intact and are fundamental to our success and our people.”
