Sodexo, a prominent player in facilities management services, has been awarded a significant new contract by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to provide integrated workplace services across 24 sites in the western part of the United Kingdom. The contract, which commences on May 1, 2025, is set for a duration of five years with the possibility of extending for an additional five years, indicating a long-term partnership between the two entities.
This award follows HMRC's strategic decision to restructure its facilities management contracts into two distinct regions. Under the new agreement, Sodexo, which has been responsible for managing soft FM services in central and southern regions since 2019, will not only retain the management of 19 existing sites but also expand its operations by incorporating hard FM services at these locations. Additionally, Sodexo will take on five new sites situated in Belfast, East Kilbride, and Glasgow.
The scope of services outlined in the contract is extensive, encompassing building maintenance, minor works, catering, cleaning, landscaping, pest control, and waste management. Among the innovations Sodexo plans to introduce is its Kitchen Works concept, which aims to improve the dining experience for HMRC employees at major regional centres in cities such as Cardiff, Glasgow, Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool, and Manchester. This concept will feature a mix of cafés, micro-markets, and both smart and traditional vending services, all supported by advanced digital solutions.
Paul Anstey, the chief executive of government services at Sodexo UK and Ireland, highlighted the company's ongoing commitment to addressing food waste, a critical priority for the company as part of its Net Zero 2040 target. Sodexo's well-regarded WasteWatch food waste management programme will be rolled out across all HMRC sites featuring food services, aiming to minimise waste and enhance kitchen operations. Anstey expressed enthusiasm for the continued partnership and a commitment to providing exceptional service to HMRC employees.
In line with its operational improvements, Sodexo will implement various technological advancements. These include a compliance performance index designed to provide real-time visibility into compliance across properties, as well as a maintenance model that integrates both static and mobile engineering teams. In the cleaning sector, the introduction of “cobotics,” where robotic cleaners work in tandem with human staff, along with the deployment of chemical-free cleaning products, is also on the agenda.
Sodexo and HMRC share a mutual focus on sustainability, with Sodexo's services impacting HMRC's scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The partnership aims to collaboratively reduce carbon emissions, aligning with HMRC’s own net zero objectives. Earlier this year, Sodexo announced significant progress towards its net zero goals, reporting a 37% reduction in absolute GHG emissions from its baseline in 2017, equating to the removal of approximately 400,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
In addition to environmental commitments, Sodexo is dedicated to enhancing workplace diversity. The company has pledged that 10% of job vacancies under the HMRC contract will be designated for individuals facing barriers to employment, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity.
Overall, this contract represents a strategic venture for both Sodexo and HMRC, integrating advanced technology, sustainability measures, and inclusivity initiatives within the framework of their operational partnership.
Source: Noah Wire Services