Be Inclusive Hospitality has named Tevin Tobun, Founder & CEO of Routd Technology and GV Group, as Industry Icon of the Year at the 2025 Be Inclusive Hospitality Spotlight Awards.
Held last week at Quaglino’s in London, the award celebrates individuals who have made an extraordinary and enduring contribution to the hospitality, food and drink industry.
Tobun was recognised for more than two decades of leadership and innovation in foodservice logistics, and for using technology to help organisations improve efficiency, reduce costs and adopt more sustainable practices.
“When I started over 20 years ago, I believed that technology could transform logistics – not just to make businesses more efficient, but to make a real difference to people and communities. It feels surreal that that belief has led to being recognised by the wider industry in this way.
“This award reflects not only my journey as an entrepreneur, but also the dedication of my incredible team and our shared commitment to helping the hospitality and foodservice sectors become smarter, more sustainable and more inclusive,” said Tevin Tobun, Founder & CEO of Routd Technology and GV Group.
Tobun has worked within the hospitality, food and drink industry since the start of his career. His businesses – including GV Group, Routd Technology and Platebox — provide technology and logistics solutions for schools, retailers, restaurants and hotels. Platebox alone delivers more than 25 million school meals every year, while together his enterprises deliver goods valued at over £400 million annually.
Through Routd Technology, Tobun and his team integrate predictive analytics, digital tracking and smart delivery systems into complex supply chains, helping organisations operate more efficiently and sustainably. Since launching Routd Technology in 2023, the company has enabled clients to cut last-mile delivery costs by up to 20% and increase drop density and fleet utilisation by up to 18%. In 2024, the business expanded into the US as part of its global growth strategy.
Beyond business, Tobun is passionate about using logistics and technology to inspire future generations. As Chair of Inspirational You and a patron of Springboard, he has helped many young people explore careers in hospitality.
“Being known as an Industry Icon is something I never imagined would happen to me. The industry has come a long way, and it continues to open doors for new ideas and new people,” Tobun said.
His leadership across the hospitality, food and drink industry has been recognised through profiles in Forbes, multiple honorary awards including an Honorary Doctorate of Business & Technology from the Royal Docks Business School (UEL), and his inclusion among the Top 100 Most Influential Black Britons, sponsored by JP Morgan.
