Robbie Laidlaw appointed London MD at Thomas Franks

Robbie Laidlaw has been announced as the new London MD at Thomas Franks.

For the last eight years he has held the role of business development director at Genuine Dining where he oversaw the management of the tender process. 

Laidlaw, who was named Salesperson of the Year award at the 2024 Foodservice Cateys will head a new London team for Thomas Franks, who initially launched its London B&I business in 2021 under Paul Hurren.

A highlight of Laidlaw’s time at Genuine Dining was the incredible achievement of rowing across the Atlantic two years ago with chief executive Chris Mitchell, where the pair raised more than £300,000 for Hospitality Action.

Laidlaw will join Thomas Franks on 5 January 2026, where he will begin to grow the London team.

Blain Shepherd, CEO of Thomas Franks, said: “Robbie is an extraordinary talent, and I’m delighted that he’ll be fronting Thomas Franks in London. His ability to blend traditional values with groundbreaking innovation make him the ideal person to take our business forward. He is incredibly well connected to the London food scene and I have no doubt that he will help to take our business to new heights.”

Robbie Laidlaw added: “I’m beyond thrilled to have joined Thomas Franks in London, a business ready to shake up a competitive market in the most meaningful way. After getting to know the team and the business, it’s clear we have all the right ingredients to create something truly special. The team is incredible; passionate, high-energy, and dedicated to delivering service that makes people’s day. We’ve got some real superstars on board!

“Looking ahead, I can’t wait to grow the team and build a business that’s rooted in values, fully supports its people, and uses food, creativity, and high performance to make work life better. Supporting local communities, protecting the planet, and creating opportunities for people with disabilities are causes close to my heart, and it’s inspiring to see how well Thomas Franks already champions them.”