John Nugent Honoured with Outstanding Contribution Award at the 2024 Foodservice Cateys
We’re proud to share that our Founder and CEO, John Nugent, was presented with the Outstanding Contribution Award at the 2024 Foodservice Cateys, recognising his impact on hospitality, catering and the wider foodservice industry.
The Foodservice Cateys are among the most respected awards in our sector, celebrating individuals and businesses that continually raise the benchmark for quality, innovation and leadership. At this year’s ceremony, held at the Royal Lancaster London hotel, John was recognised for his exceptional contribution to hospitality and for his role in shaping Green & Fortune into a thriving, independent London-focused business.
John’s journey in hospitality began early — from studying catering in Dublin to leading operations at several notable venues in London. After 16 years with Searcy’s, where he became Chief Executive, John founded Green & Fortune in 2008 amid one of the most challenging economic climates in recent history. Under his leadership, the business has grown into a multi-venue operator spanning Kings Place Events, Sea Containers Events, Central Hall Westminster and Rose Court Events, blending event delivery, catering, retail and hospitality with creativity and commercial strength.
Today, Green & Fortune is home to more than 250 people and continues to expand its reach while staying true to the values that have defined the business since its inception: quality, innovation and community.
Beyond business success, John’s award recognises his longstanding commitment to people and positive impact. He has launched initiatives such as G&F Supports, a programme created during the pandemic to support team members through hardship, and subsequently extended during the cost of living crisis with significant one-off payments to all employees. He has also championed charity partnerships and fundraising efforts, supporting organisations such as the London Irish Centre, Hospitality Action and the New Horizon Youth Centre, and contributing more than 15,000 meals to food banks.
Colleagues from across the industry commented on John’s influence — from his generosity and warmth to the way he brings people together — making this recognition truly meaningful.
The Outstanding Contribution Award is a testament not only to John’s individual achievements, but also to the values that shape how Green & Fortune operates every day. It reflects a deep commitment to hospitality as both a profession and a community, rooted in high standards, generosity and a belief that our people and partners are central to our success.
We’re honoured to see John recognised in this way and look forward to continuing to grow, evolve and make a positive impact within our industry.
