Cateys 2026: Foodservice Caterer Award – Simon Houston and Dave Hawkes, Houston & Hawkes

When Simon Houston and Dave Hawkes founded Houston & Hawkes in 2019, their goal was to dare to be different. At a time when the contract catering market had seen a lot of consolidation, the pair saw an opportunity to stand out and challenge the status quo with a personal business approach that provided clients with complete control and flexibility. 

Six years later and this dynamic duo can look back and see they have achieved that goal.

Not only has the business seen huge growth – with a £28m turnover from 40 contracts, 400 employees and an impressive 100% client retention – it has been achieved while building a company with purpose at its core.

While servicing prestigious clients, including London’s National Gallery, Regent’s University London and law firm Stewarts, Houston & Hawkes has ensured its people-first culture remains in focus, understanding that not only does it foster a happier workplace, it also helps in attracting and retaining the very best talent.

Over the past year the company has promoted 35 people internally and has heavily invested in its leadership team, including appointing a dedicated head of environmental, social and governance standards. Operations staff are treated to annual trips to destinations such as San Sebastián and can also sign up for a secondment at two-Michelin-starred Ynyshir restaurant in Machynlleth, as well as supplier trips and specialist culinary masterclasses. It offers career coaching with succession planning at all levels, and aims to take on six apprentices by the end of 2026. All this has produced a business that boasts 97% staff retention and a 59% female-led workforce, with 50% of the senior team made up of women – something that can only be achieved by a top-down culture, driven by the supportive co-founders.

The company has also became the first Living Wage Foundation-accredited employer in the UK, with benefits including market-leading parental leave, birthday leave and access to exclusive hospitality perks. No wonder it has been recognised in The Caterer’s Best Places to Work in Hospitality programme for the third consecutive year.

Houston and Hawkes have won contracts and grown their company while being constantly guided by ethical business practices. Their dedication saw the company become the first contract caterer to achieve B Corp status in 2022, retaining this demanding certification ever since and with further plans to become net zero by 2040. CSER efforts are at the centre of all it does, and over the past year it has increased spending with diverse suppliers to 49.2%, reduced carbon emissions by 14% and rescued 2,488kg of produce from landfill – a figure it expects to quadruple in 2026.

It has also significantly expanded its charity impact through Magic Breakfast and Cook For Good, with Houston and Hawkes themselves volunteering at cookalongs.

Every decision they make – from their ethical and people-centric business culture to delivering significant cost savings for clients, offering fast-payment schemes for suppliers and mentoring people in the industry – is done with heart.

And while it has already been the recipient of three Foodservice Catey Awards – Boutique Caterer of the Year (2022), Business and Industry Caterer of the Year (2023) and the CSER Award (2024) – this pair of founders and close friends can now add a coveted Catey trophy to their cabinet.

What the judges said

“Incredibly well deserved after a remarkable few years. They set an example to all those seeking to set up and drive a successful catering company. Consistently high quality in everything they do.” Chris Stern

“The journey to now has been impressive. A business which has established itself as a wonderful people-centred business. Consistent quality delivery.” Paul Jackson

“A brilliant business that ticks many boxes. Very many congratulations to the creation of a well-rounded business with thorough leadership.” Matt Thomas

The shortlist

• Helen Milligan-Smith, Aramark
• John Nugent, Green & Fortune
• Simon Houston and Dave Hawkes, Houston & Hawkes

The judges

• Hannah Horler, Cartwheel Recruitment
• Paul Jackson, Searcys
• Chris Mitchell, BaxterStorey
• Chris Stern, Stern Consultancy
• Matt Thomas, Restaurant Associates