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Hibernian strikes nine-year Elior catering deal

Hibernian has secured a new long-term deal with contract caterer Elior at the Scottish Premiership football club’s Easter Road stadium.

The club will receive an eight-figure sum – a minimum of £10m (€11.8m/$11.8m) – over a nine-year term from Elior, who was selected as the stadium caterer following a competitive tender process.

The company will work closely with Hibernian to deliver innovation around retail brands, a fan zone for pre-and post-match entertainment, seven different matchday hospitality experiences and non-matchday hospitality and events.

Elior is also the contract caterer at neighbouring Edinburgh stadium Murrayfield – the home of Scottish rugby union.

“It’s a really significant deal for this football club – one that allows us to grow our club-controlled income and offer supporters one of the best hospitality and kiosk experiences in Scotland, as we look to improve the match day experience for fans,” Hibernian chief executive Ben Kensell said.

“Off the pitch, we are moving the club forward, especially through the new hospitality areas. Whilst making sure they’re of the highest standard, we have ensured the club’s rich heritage and values are also reflected through the new dining environment.

“The food and service Elior will provide is pivotal to delivering an elevated match-day experience for our supporters, and we can’t wait to showcase this when we kick off our home league campaign against Hearts.”

Extensive work has been carried out at Easter Road ahead of the opening match of the 2022-23 season against city rival Hearts on August 7, with the club seeking to enhance its hospitality offering.

Elior managing director Kenny Finlayson added: “This contract has been awarded at a critical moment for Hibernian FC as they complete their hospitality area refurbishments. We’re immensely proud to be working with the club to take their guest dining to the next level.

“Operational excellence, guest experience and carefully curated food are at the heart of everything we do.”

Images: Hibernian