Thomas Franks has won the catering contract for BT Group, operating staff restaurants, coffee bars and hospitality services across its 21 head offices and regional contact centres.
The contract is believed to be the largest run by the caterer, which has stated its desire to grow its presence in B&I.
Thomas Franks declined to provide details on contract value, but when it was last operated by Lexington the deal was estimated to be worth some £15m a year.
Lloyd Sutton, senior manager for workplace and FM operations at BT, said: “This new, long-term strategic partnership marks the next step in the development of our workplace food offer, building on the strong foundations already in place. It follows a major investment programme to create the best possible workplaces for BT colleagues, recognising the important role that healthy, appealing food plays in creating a positive and energising workplace experience”.
Thomas Franks chief executive Blain Shepherd added: “We are humbled and deeply honoured that the BT Group has chosen us to deliver their national catering contract. The combined strength of our chef-led culture, regional operating model and experience with high-profile workplace contracts means we are uniquely placed to deliver at this scale, without losing the care, individuality and quality that define our approach.
“I’m incredibly proud of the teams across our business who contributed to the mobilisation. I have enjoyed welcoming our new colleagues into the Thomas Franks family in the last few weeks, and I am excited to work alongside them as we set a new standard for workplace dining and hospitality.”
In its latest published accounts, for the year to 30 September 2025, Thomas Franks reported a 31% increase in turnover to £130.9m.
The family-owned contract caterer recorded £16.4m in gross profit, up 22% from £13.4m in 2024, with gross margin remaining resilient at 12.5%.
In July the business recruited Craft Guild of Chefs vice-president David Mulcahy as chef director, further boosting its culinary credentials.
