Thomas Franks has been named among The Sunday Times UK Top Ten Best Places to Work for the fourth consecutive year, reinforcing the family-owned catering business’s reputation for investing in its people and workplace culture.
The business was recognised in the Very Big Places to Work category, for organisations employing more than 2,000 people, and also received a highly commended distinction in the 2026 Spotlight Award for employees aged 55+.
Founded in 2004, Thomas Franks has built its reputation around a people-first culture shaped by kindness, integrity, and long-term investment in training and career development.
The latest recognition reflects continued focus on employee experience, learning, and creating an environment where people can develop throughout their careers.
That commitment extends beyond the workplace. In 2019, the business launched The Thomas Franks Foundation with a mission to tackle food poverty. Since then, the foundation has donated more than five million hot meals in the UK and internationally.
Blain Shepherd, CEO of Thomas Franks, said: “I am incredibly proud that The Sunday Times has recognised Thomas Franks as one of the Top Ten Best Places to Work. Our business is full of exceptionally talented people, and our true family ethos is something I will always be immensely proud of.
“We care deeply about our people and their future, and place great emphasis on training and development, and fostering a culture rooted in kindness and respect. This recognition is a real honour, and another proud milestone in our journey.”
Victoria Freeman, Chief People Officer, said: “Our people are the beating heart of our business, and creating an inclusive, collaborative culture where individuals feel valued, supported and empowered to thrive has always been our priority. This year, we have focused on taking steps to increase training and apprenticeship opportunities and to increase support for accessibility and neurodiversity across our global business.
“We have also developed substantial links with charities and social enterprises that support people with learning disabilities into employment with Thomas Franks. We know this is just the start and there is much more to do, but this recognition by The Sunday Times is a proud reflection of our ongoing commitment to our team.
“I would like to thank our wonderful people for sharing their experiences of working at Thomas Franks.”
