Botanical Gardens deal plants seed for five-year partnership

Catering group Aramark has planted itself into Birmingham Botanical Gardens for the next five years after agreeing a partnership with the visitor attraction.

The deal will see Aramark invest substantially in the Pavilion cafe, using its experiences at Ireland’s garden, food and shopping destination, Avoca, to create “innovative food concepts”. It will also update the offering in its event spaces.

Richard Arnell, regional director at Aramark, said: “Our mission is to deliver experiences that enrich and nourish lives and we are delighted to have been chosen as the Botanical Garden’s new catering partner.

“Our bespoke approach and expertise in catering for visitors at unique destinations has enabled us to create exciting and inspirational catering solutions and restaurant facilities.”

The Gardens are set in 15 acres in Edgbaston and are home to more than 7,000 different plant species.

James Wheeler, chief executive of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, said: “It was important that we found a partner who understood our approach to great food and I’m delighted that we have found that partner in Aramark.

“Their plan to use locally sourced ingredients and renovate the cafe is incredibly exciting, for our visitors and staff alike.”