Home » EUROPE » Compass Group Champions Inclusivity with A New Event in London, Birmingham, and Manchester: A New Era for Hospitality Industry
Published on
September 22, 2025
To demonstrate their commitment to diversity and inclusion, Compass Group UK & Ireland organized the Inclusioneers @ Compass event to celebrate National Inclusion Week. Held in the major cities in the UK i.e London, Birmingham, and Manchester, this event involved around 120 participants, who showcased the work of the 6 employee networks of the company. It also provided a platform for the leadership of the company to demonstrate their commitment to a workplace where everyone is respected and able to contribute. The event also emphasized the company’s commitment to advancement and representation in the workplace.
Celebrating the Power of Diversity: The Inclusioneers Event
Compass Group UK & Ireland, the largest food and support services company in the UK, used the event as a platform to reflect on the progress made towards inclusivity, while also discussing the work that still lies ahead. During the event, representatives from each of the six employee networks participated in a panel discussion, where they shared insights into their specific missions and future plans. The networks, which include groups focused on Pride, Ability, Armed Forces, and You Matter, represent the diverse range of employees at Compass, with each network working to ensure that all individuals feel included and empowered within the organisation.
The day was filled with inspiring presentations, as well as discussions on how to create an inclusive environment not just at Compass, but across the wider hospitality and catering industry. The event also highlighted the importance of having senior executives support these networks, with key figures from the company’s leadership team sharing their personal experiences and reflections on inclusion.
High-Profile Speakers and Panels Spark Meaningful Conversations
One of the key moments of the event was the keynote address delivered by renowned Executive Coach René Carayol MBE, who discussed the role of leadership in driving inclusivity. Carayol’s presentation focused on how leaders can energise their teams and create an environment where every individual feels a sense of belonging. This was followed by a panel discussion featuring key leaders from Compass, who spoke about their personal journeys with inclusion and how they support these efforts within their respective departments.
Among the speakers was Ebony Rainford-Brent MBE, the former England cricketer and prominent commentator, who served as the event’s MC. Rainford-Brent, a well-respected figure in both sport and broadcasting, spoke about her own experiences as a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated industry, emphasising the importance of representation and opportunity for all.
Alongside her, several Compass Group leaders, such as Karl Atkins, CEO of Foodbuy Group, and Morag Freathy, CEO of B&I, discussed how belonging within the workplace can positively impact employees’ motivation and performance. They reflected on the practical steps Compass has taken to promote inclusivity, from mentorship programmes to flexible working options.
Showcasing Employee Networks and Their Impact
Compass’ six employee networks – You Matter, Pride in Food, Ability, Armed Forces, Women’s Network, and the BAME Network – played a central role in the event, providing attendees with valuable insights into how each group is making a difference. These networks focus on a wide range of causes, from gender equality and mental health to military support and racial diversity, with each group working to break down barriers and ensure that all employees have the opportunity to thrive.
The networks also highlighted their achievements and the projects they have initiated throughout the year. For example, the Pride in Food network continues to raise awareness and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within the workplace, while the Ability network ensures that employees with disabilities have the necessary resources and support to succeed in their roles.
A Full Week of Inclusivity Activities
National Inclusion Week at Compass didn’t stop with the Inclusioneers event. The company also hosted a range of other activities, including webinars, internal ‘InclusiviTEA’ events, and the launch of a podcast series that discusses inclusivity in the workplace. These initiatives are part of Compass’ broader strategy to create a workplace where diversity is celebrated and every person has an equal chance to succeed.
Moreover, Compass Group’s commitment to inclusion is in line with its wider corporate social responsibility programme, known as “Our Social Promise.” This initiative includes the company’s ‘Mission to a Million’ commitment, which aims to make a significant social impact through charitable donations and sustainable practices, further reinforcing Compass’ focus on building an inclusive and responsible workplace.
How This Event Helps Tourists and Travellers
While the event focused on inclusivity within the company, the broader implications for the tourism and hospitality industries are clear. For travellers, the emphasis on inclusion means that they can expect to encounter more diverse, welcoming, and respectful environments when dining out, staying in hotels, or visiting various tourist attractions supported by companies like Compass Group.
As tourists increasingly seek out businesses that reflect their values, including diversity and sustainability, the efforts made by companies like Compass Group to create inclusive workspaces contribute directly to improving the quality of services and experiences offered to visitors. Whether it’s enjoying a meal at a restaurant or staying in a hotel, travellers can expect to see the benefits of a more inclusive workforce in the form of better customer service and more diverse offerings.
The Future of Inclusion in the Hospitality Industry
The success of Compass Group UK & Ireland’s National Inclusion Week event Inclusioneers @ Compass illustrates the value of fostering an inclusive culture at work where every worker is treated with respect and supported in their endeavours. The company’s continued commitment to to advocate for inclusion and diversity is a model for other firms in the hospitality and tourism related industries.
For visitors, this inclusive practice translates to better experiences. There is a growing acknowledgment of the importance of a diverse and fully engaged workforce integration. From better customer care and more targeted marketing to the enhanced services at work, Compass Group’s efforts to bolster its personnel will certainly change the face of travel for visitors to the UK.
