Sodexo Live! will return to Henley Royal Regatta 2026 with an enhanced hospitality offering that places greater emphasis on sustainability, seasonality and locally sourced produce.
Building on its role as the event’s official hospitality partner, the company is evolving its approach to food and beverage delivery by increasing its focus on provenance, environmental responsibility and support for regional suppliers.
Menus for the 2026 Regatta have been designed to reflect the surrounding area, with ingredients sourced from producers across the Thames Valley wherever possible. The initiative aims to reduce food miles while showcasing the quality and diversity of local produce.
One example of this approach is the inclusion of cheeses from Nettlebed Creamery, located just a short distance from the Regatta site in the Chiltern Hills. The selection reflects a wider commitment to supporting local businesses and incorporating regional products into the hospitality experience.
Sustainability considerations extend beyond menu design, with Sodexo Live! integrating responsible practices throughout its event operations.
Scott Ashby, Divisional Operations Director at Sodexo Live! UK & Ireland, said: “Henley Royal Regatta is one of the most iconic events in the British calendar, and there’s a real opportunity to evolve how it’s delivered.
“For us, that means working closely with exceptional local producers like Nettlebed Creamery, while taking a practical, responsible approach to sourcing and operations. It’s about creating something that feels true to Henley but also reflects how people want to experience events today.”
Alongside its food and beverage strategy, Sodexo Live! is implementing a range of environmental initiatives designed to reduce the event’s overall footprint. These include reducing single-use plastics, increasing the use of reusable and recyclable materials and adopting a more structured approach to surplus food management.
The objective is to preserve the character and heritage of the Regatta while making meaningful improvements to its environmental performance.
Daniel Grist, Secretary and Chief Executive of Henley Royal Regatta, said: “We are very conscious of the responsibility that comes with hosting the Regatta in such a unique setting.
“The steps we’re taking are about protecting that for the long term – whether that’s through the suppliers we work with, the food we serve or how we operate behind the scenes. It’s an important part of how the event continues to evolve.”
Henley Royal Regatta 2026 will continue to deliver the elegant hospitality and social atmosphere for which the event is renowned, while introducing a stronger focus on local produce, responsible sourcing and sustainable event delivery.
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