The dining experience at a world-class conference venue does more than just nourish attendees; it shapes their perception of the event, the facility, and the host city itself. As ACC Liverpool embarks on a new chapter, its selection of Levy, a titan in sports and entertainment hospitality, signals a deliberate move to transform its culinary offerings from a standard service into a memorable, integrated part of the delegate journey. This partnership, which commenced on April 1, is poised to infuse every conference and exhibition with a distinct flavor that reflects both global excellence and the unique spirit of Liverpool. The collaboration is not merely a change in vendors but a strategic reimagining of how food and beverage services can enhance a venue’s reputation and contribute to its broader mission of sustainability and community engagement.
A New Era of Culinary Experience
The transition to Levy marks a significant moment for ACC Liverpool, building on the foundation established by the previous operator, Sodexo Live!. The decision to bring in a new partner was driven by a vision to elevate the catering offer to meet the demands of major international and high-profile events. The venue sought a provider with a proven track record of delivering exceptional culinary experiences at scale, capable of innovating beyond traditional conference fare.
Levy’s reputation for creating bespoke food stories in renowned stadiums, arenas, and convention centers made it a compelling choice. The company’s expertise in large-scale event logistics, combined with its focus on quality and creativity, aligned perfectly with ACC Liverpool’s ambition to be a leader in the global events industry. This new era is defined by an objective to make the dining experience as impactful and memorable as the events themselves.
The Core Ingredients of a Landmark Partnership
At the heart of this new agreement is an innovative collaborative delivery model designed to blend national resources with deep local roots. Levy has strategically partnered with Horseradish, an established and highly respected Liverpool-based event catering specialist. This alliance is central to the partnership’s success, ensuring that the service remains authentically connected to the region while benefiting from Levy’s extensive industry network and operational scale.
This dual approach is designed to create a “best of both worlds” scenario. Levy brings its industry-leading standards, sustainable supply chain management, and technological innovations to the table. In parallel, Horseradish provides invaluable local knowledge, a network of regional producers, and a team that understands the cultural nuances of the city. Together, they aim to deliver a catering service that is both world-class in its execution and distinctly “Liverpool” in its character.
A Vision for a Distinctly Liverpool Experience
The shared goal of the partnership is to craft a culinary narrative that celebrates the city’s vibrant identity. This means moving beyond generic menus and creating food experiences that tell a story about the region. The commitment is to showcase seasonal, locally sourced produce, thereby supporting local farmers and suppliers while offering delegates a true taste of Merseyside.
This vision extends to the people behind the service. By utilizing local talent and collaborating with community enterprises, the partnership reinforces ACC Liverpool’s commitment to social value. The aim is for every delegate, whether from across the globe or just down the road, to feel a genuine connection to the city through its food, its people, and its culture, transforming a meal into an integral part of their event experience.
The Recipe for Strategic Success
Levy’s approach to reimagining the catering offer at ACC Liverpool is multifaceted, focusing on quality, sustainability, and delegate satisfaction. A key strategic element is the overhaul of menu design to offer greater variety, healthier options, and more dynamic food concepts that reflect modern culinary trends. This includes interactive food stations, pop-up concepts, and menus tailored to the specific demographic and theme of each event.
Furthermore, sustainability is a cornerstone of the operational strategy. This aligns with ACC Liverpool’s status as a carbon-neutral venue and supports its broader environmental goals. Levy will implement measures to minimize food waste, reduce packaging, and prioritize suppliers who share a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. This not only enhances the venue’s green credentials but also resonates with the growing number of event organizers and attendees who prioritize corporate social responsibility.
This new partnership established a framework for innovation and excellence in event catering. By integrating national expertise with local authenticity, the collaboration between Levy and Horseradish successfully redefined the delegate experience at ACC Liverpool. The focus on sustainability, community engagement, and a distinct regional identity created a powerful model for the future of venue hospitality, demonstrating that a thoughtful culinary strategy can significantly enhance an event’s impact and a city’s global reputation. The result was a dining program that not only met but exceeded the expectations of a world-class conference and exhibition destination.
