Bidfood’s Andy Kemp retires after more than 40 years in hospitality

Andy Kemp, executive director at wholesaler Bidfood, will retire at the end of June after more than 20 years with the business and a career spanning more than four decades.

Widely recognised as an influential figure in UK foodservice and hospitality, Kemp’s retirement marks the end of a pioneering career that has left a lasting impact on the industry.

Recently named Outstanding Supplier Personality of the Year at The Caterer’s Supplier Awards, Kemp is celebrated for his commercial leadership and his commitment to social impact – from tackling food insecurity to nurturing the next generation of industry talent.

During his tenure, he has been instrumental in shaping Bidfood’s customer and community strategies, spearheading initiatives with government, education providers, and charities that have driven positive, transformative change across the UK.

Since joining Bidfood in 2000, he has championed critical issues such as holiday hunger, universal infant free school meals and nutritional standards in education. His campaigning has helped secure better outcomes for vulnerable children while pushing for systemic improvement within public sector catering.

Beyond his work at Bidfood, Kemp has supported industry charities including Springboard and Hospitality Action. He has played a pivotal role in the Chaine des Rôtisseurs’ Young Chefs and Young Sommeliers’ National Awards, earning the organisation’s highest honour, Paré de Chaine. He also supports FutureChef, the Michael Caines Academy, and is co-founder and board member of the One and All Foundation.

During his career Kemp served as the grantee and Royal Household liaison for Bidfood’s Royal Warrant of Appointment – an honour the company has held for over 25 years. Reappointed by King Charles III in December 2024, the warrant recognises Bidfood’s excellence in supplying the Royal Household. Kemp recently passed the grantee responsibility to Bidfood UK chief executive, Andrew Selley.

While Kemp is stepping back from his executive role, he will remain an advocate for the sector through his ongoing work with the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), the Local Authority Catering Association (LACA), and the University of West London.

Gavin Squires, currently business development controller for healthcare, education and consortia, will continue to build on Kemp’s legacy, championing better funding and support for school meals and holiday hunger in the education sector.

Kemp said: “It’s been an extraordinary journey – one that’s taken me from the shop floor to the corridors of Parliament, always with a passion for making a difference.

“I’ve been privileged to work alongside some of the most dedicated and inspiring people in this industry, and to fight for causes that truly matter – from child nutrition to supporting future talent.

“The foodservice sector is more than a job; it’s a community, a family, and a force for good. I feel incredibly proud of all we’ve achieved together.”

Selley added: “Andy has been a key figure in our business and one of our longest-serving directors, as well as a passionate advocate for the wider industry.

“His dedication and influence extend far beyond Bidfood. He’s been a voice for fairness, nutrition, and education. We’re incredibly grateful for everything he’s achieved and proud to have worked alongside him. We wish him a long, happy, and well-deserved retirement.”