The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games has begun the search to find suppliers who can deliver nearly £5 million worth of catering services at Games time.

The procurement involves five separate opportunities to tender for catering services that will operate at some of the Competition and Non-Competition venues. This includes the Alexander Stadium, Sandwell Aquatics Centre, West Park, Sutton Park, Smithfield, St Nicholas Park, Victoria Park, Cannock Chase, as well as the live sites (fan zones).
 
These catering contracts are expected to support approximately 2,000 jobs during Games time and will be a much welcome boost to a sector that has suffered during the global pandemic.
 
The successful suppliers will have proven experience of delivering high quality catering operations and share a passion for providing relevant, high-quality food and drinks as well as exemplary levels of customer service. Furthermore, the suppliers will be expected to demonstrate initiatives that deliver social value to Birmingham 2022 and the city, as well as the local community.
 
The first procurement for catering services is now open and businesses are invited to complete a Selection Questionnaire (formerly known as PQQ). The invitation to submit initial bids is timetabled for April 2021, with the final tender in May 2021. The contract will be awarded in the summer of 2021. John Crabtree, Chairman of the Birmingham 2022 board said:
 
“These Games have always been about providing tangible, transformational opportunities and this is a great demonstration of how real those benefits can be.  

"We have a well-earned reputation for delivering incredible food in the city and region, and I know there are talented, ambitious, proven suppliers who will be relishing the opportunity to bid for these lots.  

"This is about so much more than winning a contract, the successful bidders will provide jobs, training, and further opportunities for more people, expanding the positive impact and benefits the Games bring, and that’s an incredible thing to help facilitate”.
 
Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, added:

“One of the reasons I was so determined to help secure the Commonwealth Games for the West Midlands was the employment opportunities it would create, and it is brilliant seeing that come to fruition.

"Whether it is catering or retail, security or IT, the thousands of jobs the Commonwealth Games is creating are coming at a critical time for our region as we look to bounce back from the coronavirus pandemic.

"I would urge everyone looking for work or wanting to get involved in this once-in-a-generation opportunity to visit the Birmingham 2022 and see what roles are available.”
 
Interested businesses are encouraged to apply via the Birmingham 2022 Business portal at For more information visit birmingham2022.com.