Great British Menu judge’s firm pulls out of Royal Pavilion catering deal

A famous foodie’s firm has pulled out of running the catering at some of Brighton’s most famous venues.

Peyton and Byrne – which is run by Great British Menu judge Oliver Peyton – signed a multi-year deal to serve food and drinks at the prestigious venues including the city’s Royal Pavilion, the neighbouring Dome complex and Hove Museum in January 2013.

But just 18 months into the contract the firm has announced it will pull away from the deal claiming it “does not fit with their core activities in London”.

This is despite the company putting considerable investment into the city, which included taking over part of the former tourist information centre near the Royal Pavilion.

In a statement issued this morning (Tuesday July 22) by Brighton and Hove City Council, the local authority said: “It is with regret that we announce that Peyton and Byrne will cease to deliver catering and hospitality functions for Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival and Royal Pavilion and Museums over the next few months.

“Although Peyton and Byrne entered this contract with enthusiasm and considerable investment they now feel that the project does not fit with their core activities in London.

“At this early stage of the exit process Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival and Royal Pavilion and Museums have committed to continue to work together and intend to run joint tenders for event catering and for the daytime cafes.

“It is anticipated the Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival bars will return to in-house management. Existing event catering commitments will be honoured and café facilities will remain open for business until the tendering process for cafes is complete.

“Consultation will now begin with elected staff representatives and unions in relation to how Peyton and Byrne staff can best be protected.”

The Latest understands a decision was taken after a high-profile meeting on Monday.

In a joint statement, Janita Bagshawe, head of the Royal Pavilion, Arts and Museums and Andrew Comben, chief executive Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival said; “We are disappointed that Peyton and Bryrne will be leaving at this stage especially as they have invested considerably locally in existing and new outlets over the past 16 months.

“We are pleased to confirm, however, that Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival and the Royal Pavilion will continue working in partnership on a joint tender for event catering and daytime cafes.

“We look forward to welcoming applications from bidders who appreciate the uniqueness of Brighton and Hove and can cater for what our visitors and audiences really want, helping us to make the Royal Pavilion Estate a world-class destination for residents and visitors.”