Industry News for September 15, 2024

Hot Off the Presses

Otis Spunkmeyer and the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation are working together this September to take on food insecurity in communities across the United States. This collaboration focuses on directing much-needed support to vulnerable populations, with a spotlight on children. Through this effort, for every case of qualifying Otis Spunkmeyer cookies sold to Sodexo-managed or Entegra operators during September, Otis Spunkmeyer will donate $3 to the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation. The proceeds will empower the Foundation’s ongoing mission to combat hunger and provide access to nutritious food for those who need it most. Jason Heyward, Major League Baseball outfielder, has stepped up to bat for this campaign. In a newly released Public Service Announcement (PSA), Heyward calls on everyone to join in the fight against hunger. With every cookie sold, the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation will be one step closer to achieving the campaign goal of providing over a quarter million meals. Otis Spunkmeyer and the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation invite all Sodexo-managed and Entegra operators to participate in joining this winning team to knock hunger out of the park! A full portfolio of marketing materials is available to support the campaign.  

OCESA, the leading live entertainment company in Mexico, today announced the selection of Oak View Group’s OVG Hospitality to redefine the culinary and hospitality experiences at its venues in Mexico City. This collaboration is set to revolutionize hospitality at concerts, sporting events, and business gatherings by introducing premium services, innovative technologies, and a broader range of menu options. The selection extends Oak View Group’s business presence into Latin America and underscores the shared commitment of both companies to elevating the comprehensive event experience and fulfilling diverse audience expectations. OCESA venues, celebrated for hosting iconic live entertainment events, will benefit from OVG Hospitality’s food and beverage offerings and superior customer service. Additionally, the introduction of new premium spaces at select venues will provide a variety of premium and corporate hospitality options.  As the exclusive food and beverage provider, OVG Hospitality will integrate its industry-leading services across OCESA’s various venues, partnering with local, regional, and national vendors to craft menu items that reflect Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. Plans include enhancing the premium experience in suites and clubs, introducing new menu selections and market concepts throughout the year, and integrating technology to streamline ordering and payment processes to reduce wait times. 

Accolades 

The first-ever Best Places for Flexible Work award series by Instawork, the nation’s leading flexible work platform with over 60M app users, celebrate businesses that have made significant contributions in offering outstanding economic opportunities for hourly workers while creating an adaptable and supportive work environment.  Each awards category highlights a unique and important aspect of providing flexible and supportive work for the hourly workforce, creating a new standard of excellence:  

Best Place for Flexible Work Awards 

Recognizes businesses that provide an outstanding work environment characterized by flexibility and support. This winner was chosen for having high ratings and reviews by the hourly workers on the Instawork app, setting themselves apart by fostering a culture where adaptability and worker satisfaction are paramount. This year’s overall winner is: Jitsu, one of the nation's leading last mile delivery services.     

Economic Opportunity Awards 

Acknowledges businesses that demonstrate a commitment to workers by providing ample and reliable work opportunities. This year’s winners are:  

Hiring Heroes Award 

Celebrates businesses dedicated to supporting workers who have served our country by providing regular and meaningful work opportunities to active, reserve, or veteran military members. This year’s winner is Aramark.

People on the Move

South Seas, located on Captiva Island along Florida’s Gulf Coast, proudly announces the appointment of acclaimed Chef Thomas Cook as the Executive Chef overseeing the resort’s culinary program while opening new and re-concepted restaurants. With a career distinguished by innovation and excellence, Chef Cook brings a fresh perspective to South Seas’ diverse collection of restaurants, promising an innovative dining experience for guests. Chef Cook joins South Seas with an impressive background that includes Executive Chef positions at The Boca Raton Resort & Club, Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, The Union Station Nashville Yards, Autograph Collection, Hilton Downtown Nashville, and King and Prince Beach & Golf. Cook’s visionary approach aligns perfectly with South Seas’ commitment to rebuilding the resort with extraordinary dining experiences following the devastation of Hurricane Ian.    

Proof of the Pudding, a leader in food service management and catering for prestige sporting events, state-of-the-art convention centers, sports and entertainment arenas and college stadiums, today announced that Tristan Porter has joined the company as its chief development officer. In this role, Porter will continue to grow the company’s national footprint with a special focus on sports and entertainment venues. Porter joined the company from Delaware North, where he was responsible for the growth of its professional sports business. In his previous role with Aramark, he led the Southeast region driving development strategies and offering culinary solutions for campus dining and athletic venues. Before coming back to the U.S., he worked at Sodexo, where he played a key international business development role, overseeing growth across North and South America, the United Kingdom and West Africa.