Leading caterer H+J has won a five-year contract at historic Dartmouth House in Mayfair, one of London’s most exclusive events venues and home to the English-Speaking Union.
The £6m contract was awarded to the recently rebranded H+J following a rigorous tender process in which the events and venues caterer showcased its innovative approach to food and service by presenting a new identity for the venue and its catering. H+J, owned by the UK’s leading food services company, Harbour & Jones, was also selected for creating an inspiring vision for growing member and event sales and for its guarantee of quality.
The scope of the contract includes bar, restaurant and all-day services for members of educational charity, The English-Speaking Union and for all corporate and private events ranging from conferences, business meetings and dinners to private parties and weddings. Within H+J’s remit will also be management of the sales process, marketing the venue and room set-up for all functions. The new contract includes the creation of 13 new jobs.
Jane Easton, Director-General of the English-Speaking Union comments: “We chose to appoint H+J because of their innovative approach, talented chefs, high quality standards and values as well as their vision for an exciting future at Dartmouth House. We are very proud of our international headquarters, where the English-Speaking Union has been providing hospitality for nearly a century, and we are sure that H+J will do us proud.”
Patrick Harbour, Co-Founder and Director of Harbour & Jones which owns H+J, comments: “We are absolutely delighted to have won the contract at Dartmouth House, this iconic venue in the heart of London. The team are very excited to be working here and to help lead the way in its exciting business growth. Our talented chefs are really looking forward to creating bespoke and innovative menus which represent the organisation’s strong heritage with a modern twist.”
The elegant mansion set in the heart of Mayfair with its sumptuously designed interior offers eight versatile and flexible spaces suitable for any event. The events spaces are flooded with natural light and contain a wealth of original features including a sweeping staircase, walnut panelling and crystal chandeliers. A significant architectural feature of the venue is its enclosed marble-lined courtyard complete with fountain. Situated at 37 Charles Street, Mayfair, the Grade II* listed Georgian building is large enough for events for up to 450 people but is also suitable for more intimate gatherings. The venue’s first floor rooms are interconnecting creating a natural flow for events.
Plans for early 2017 include a new kitchen and windows, refurbished cloakrooms and first floor event spaces with AV facilities. Further development of the members’ areas is planned for later in the year.