ESS Government, specialist provider of foodservice and facilities management to central government, police and secure environments, has retained its catering services contract with Thames Valley Police.

ESS has worked with Thames Valley Police since 2022, providing catering and hospitality services at the force’s training centre in Sulhamstead, as well as planned and emergency operational feeding across the region.

The contract has been renewed for a further three years based on the company’s well-established relationships and contract performance, with notable successes in the collaborative delivery of high-profile operational requirements.

ESS has supported officers on duty at events including the state funeral for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, high-security political summits, music festivals and the annual Royal Ascot meeting.

Under the new contract, ESS will complete a refurbishment of the training centre’s restaurant counters where it provides a range of hot and chilled breakfast and lunch options, as well as cakes, pastries and hot drinks.

The operational feeding provision varies by event, with the full range including hot and continental style breakfasts, packed meals and a variety of snacks, as well as hot meals and salads.

ESS will also cater for the force’s annual open day and twice-yearly recruitment events.

The company will introduce social value initiatives, including providing food for local soup kitchens in Newbury and Oxford in collaboration with the client and recruiting team members through Compass’ Social Partner Hub which supports people experiencing challenges finding work into employment.

The contract award reinforces ESS’ police portfolio which also includes City of London Police, Bedfordshire Police, Hertfordshire Constabulary, the Metropolitan Police, Surrey Police, Sussex Police and West Midlands Police.

Thom Wilson, Procurement Manager Operational – Thames Valley Police, commented:

“We are pleased to have extended our partnership with ESS. Since 2022, they have provided a reliable and professional catering service, supporting both day‑to‑day operations and a number of high‑profile events. The contract renewal reflects the strong working relationship established and ESS’ consistent delivery, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration."

Richard Jones, Managing Director – ESS Government, added:

“We’re delighted to have extended our successful partnership with Thames Valley Police. Over the past three years, we’ve built great relationships within the force and worked collaboratively to deliver high-quality services on a daily basis, as well as providing operational feeding for numerous complex and important events. We look forward to building on this work throughout the duration of the new contract.”