Catermasters deal for In House will boost competitiveness

Catermasters believes its purchase of a controlling stake in London's In House Catering Company, which specialises in executive dining, will improve its ability to compete for group contracts.

The company took a majority stake in In House Catering last month, with Catermasters co-founder Richard Moody becoming joint managing director of In House alongside Mark Herman.

Although yet to be formalised, it is thought likely that In House will live on as a brand operating under the Catermasters umbrella.

Nigel Johnson, Catermasters managing director, said despite five new contract wins so far this year, the purchase of In House would boost the caterer's image with clients.

"We have found some London clients become wary of us when they realise we don't at present have much of a track record in the capital," he said. "Outside of London there have also been group tenders that include London headquarters where our bid has been weakened by a perceived lack of experience."

Johnson added: "So adding In House with their fine dining expertise will enhance the credibility of the business overall. However, it doesn't mean we'll be focusing exclusively on the London market."

The newly combined group has annual turnover of more than £25m and more than 100 contracts in London, the Midlands and the South-east. Clients include the Learning and Skills Council, Kia Motors and Oxford University Press.

In House caters at the Bank of Dubai, property ageent Savills, the British Academy and advertising agency BBH.

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By Chris Druce

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