Leading luxury catering and event management services provider Blue Strawberry Group has secured a five-year contract to deliver exclusive hospitality and event services at 8½ London – home to The Skinners’ Company.
Valued at over £10 million, the contract represents a landmark partnership for Blue Strawberry Group and adds to its in-house venue accreditations, which already includes No.4 Hamilton Place.
8½ London has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. The ancient monument located in the heart of the City of London is a renowned venue for hosting corporate and private events. Following major restoration and redevelopment of the Grade I listed venue, 8½ London will reopen in January 2025, offering exclusive hire of its 7 indoor spaces and three outdoor areas.
Blue Strawberry Group was awarded the contract after undertaking an extensive and highly competitive tender process. With its target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040, 8½ London’s requirements for its exclusive partner prioritised sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
The win is a testament to the Blue Strawberry Group’s commitment to responsible and sustainable practices, which has set industry standards. Over the past ten years, the company has led tree-planting initiatives and regularly organised volunteer days with The Tree Council. In 2022, Blue Strawberry Group achieved carbon-positive status, and their efforts were further recognised by achieving the prestigious PlanetMark certification, through which they remain committed to continuous improvement. These initiatives demonstrate their dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainability – also offering clients carbon offsetting for their events, in partnership with Terra Neutra’s Eco Act.
Andrew Kennett CBE, Clerk of the Skinners’ Company, comments: “We are thrilled to welcome Blue Strawberry Group as our exclusive hospitality partner at 8½ London. Their proven track record of excellence and innovative approach to sustainability and culture perfectly aligns with our vision for the future of this historic venue. We look forward to the unique experiences they will create for our guests.”
Stuart Jenkins, Managing Director of Blue Strawberry Group, adds: “This is a monumental achievement for Blue Strawberry Group, and we are honoured to be entrusted with the hospitality and events at such a prestigious and historic venue. Our team is committed to delivering extraordinary events that not only celebrate the grandeur of 8½ London but also embody our core values of sustainability and excellence. We are excited to embark on this journey and create memorable experiences for all who visit.”
Drawing on over 30 years of experience in delivering world-class hospitality, Blue Strawberry Group will be expertly placed to cater for all nature of events at 8½ London. With capacities of up to 300 guests standing, the flexible venue can accommodate conferences and meetings, receptions, gala dinners, weddings and other format corporate and private events.
As Blue Strawberry Group prepares for 8½ London’s reopening, the focus will be on integrating innovative and sustainable practices to enhance the guest experience, while preserving the iconic venue’s history. The company’s ESG principles will influence all aspects of operational delivery, ensuring that every event held at 8½ London has a positive environmental and socially responsible impact.
To enquire about hosting events at 8½ London, please contact: hello@bluestrawberry.co.uk or +44 (0) 207 733 3151.
