ARAMARK has announced a record 95% like-for-like annual increase in retained business, from £38.5 million in 2010 to £78 million in 2011, in what the company is calling its best year yet.
The company has been re-awarded a total of 54 contracts in the past 12 months, exceeding forecast. Of these contracts, more than 40% were retained following a competitive tender with the remaining contracts extended without being subject to bid.
Most significantly, the company has seen strong growth in healthcare and education contracts which now make up approximately 21% of overall business. ARAMARK cited a shift in strategic focus as the contributing factor to the year's success.
Andrew Main, CEO at ARAMARK, commented: "We took the view that the economy in 2011 was a sign of changing times rather than tough times, and have therefore made it a fundamental business practice to focus on developing existing client services and relationships while scaling back on non-core activity.
"Key to our success has been our experience, insight and track record of working in specific sectors, like education, healthcare and defence for many years. Recent years have seen a general shift in the industry, resulting in contract caterers having to work even closer with clients than ever before to really get under the skin of the client organisation and understand their needs in order to create the right offer.
"Programmes centred around income generation, an efficient and improved service offer that is on a par with the high street, together with no increase in overheads, are top of the client agenda. Those who truly understand what pushes clients' buttons will reap the rewards."
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