The Barista Collective programme is being rolled out across Sodexo’s sizeable hospitality client network, where it serves more than nine million cups of coffee annually
Sodexo UK & Ireland has launched a new training programme to elevate coffee standards across its corporate client network.
Sodexo unveiled the Barista Collective programme on 13 July 2026, with barista training led by a team of 22 coffee professionals from across its business.
The move underlines how the broader non-specialist coffee operators are increasingly seeking alignment with rising customer expectations on beverage quality and consistency.
In a press release, the food services, contract catering and facilities management group said its ‘Coffee Champions’ have all completed an intensive Train the Trainer programme, equipping them to deliver new Level 1 and Level 2 barista training courses across the wider organisation.
Level 1 training focuses on essential skills, with Level 2 examining bean selection, processing methods, roasting, sensory development and advanced brewing techniques.
“Built around three core pillars – craft, collaboration and community – the Barista Collective programme has been designed to support and empower our baristas. It represents a shift from viewing coffee training as a technical requirement to recognising it as a critical part of the guest experience, helping turn everyday transactions into meaningful, personalised interactions and memorable experiences for our guests,” said Julian Weresch, Head of Coffee & Franchises, Sodexo UK & Ireland.
Sodexo currently serves more than nine million cups of coffee annually across a portfolio of 300 client sites in the UK and Ireland, which includes hospitals, colleges, prisons and corporate offices, as well as live events.
The group primarily serves its proprietary Fairtrade coffee brand, Aspretto, and specialty coffee from Cornwall-based Origin Coffee. However, it also works with social enterprise coffee roasters such as Change Please and Combat2Coffee at some locations.
In October 2025, Sodexo UK & Ireland supported the opening of Combat2Coffee’s new roastery and café at HMP Altcourse in Liverpool, which provides on-site training opportunities for prisoners to gain qualifications in cookery, barista skills and food safety to boost employability prospects on release.
Sodexo UK & Ireland, a subsidiary of French facilities management giant Sodexo, has secured several major client contracts over the last 12 months, including an FM deal with the UK Home Office, a food and support services agreement with consultancy giant EY in Ireland and a hospitality partnership with Edinburgh Zoo.
