Social Pantry

The great avocado debate (and why I don’t 100% agree with Alan Titchmarsh)... 🥑   Last week, in a letter to The Times, Alan Titchmarsh cited that he no longer eats avocados due to their environmental impact, and urges others to do the same, suggesting breakfast cereals as an alternative.    So where does Social Pantry stand on avocados?    Well, Alan is right. Avocado production is much more damaging to the environment than other fruits – not only does it take around 320l of water to produce just one avocado (that’s in comparison to say, an apple, which needs only around 15l), but the majority of avocados are grown in Mexico (followed by Peru, Columbia and Indonesia), meaning that when you’re eating one in the UK, the chances are that it’s travelled over 5,000 miles to get here. And that’s not to mention the mass deforestation that has taken place in these areas in order to make room for avocado plantations, and the violence associated with the cartel’s involvement in avocado production in Mexico.    With all that known, here at Social Pantry, we took the decision to remove all avocado from our menus back in 2021, and haven’t looked back since.    So far, so in agreement. But here’s where I disagree with Alan’s messaging…   Avocados (and those who eat them!) seem to be taking almost 100% of the blame for the world’s climate emergency. But sadly, they’re just one small part of a wider problem. Instead of focussing solely on avocados, we’ve decided to focus on eating and serving menus through a fresh, local and seasonal lens. Not only does this lead to better-tasting food, it also means that the food miles will be significantly lower, which in turn means that the nutritional value of the food will be higher (as certain nutrients are lost in travel). It’s a win-win-win.    So, I’d like to know – where do you stand on avocados? 📸 Philippa Lawley-Barrett

Celebrate B Corp Month with Social Pantry! 💚🎉🌍 As a certified B Corp we are committed to using business as a force for good - and we know you are too… ✨ So, as a special thank you to our B Corp community, we’re offering an exclusive 10% discount on our catering services booked this month, to fellow B Corps! Whether you're planning a special gathering, corporate event, or even an office lunch, our catering is designed with sustainability at heart. As for our valued clients who aren’t B Corps, we’re delighted to offer a 5% discount throughout the month of March, because every step towards sustainability and great food deserves to be celebrated! Let’s champion positive impact together! 💪 Avaliable across events, workplace and exclusive venues. More information: https://lnkd.in/eTMxZw_p B Lab UK #BCorp #BCorpUK #sustainablebusiness #londoncaterer

This International Women’s Day, we wanted to inspire, encourage and empower more women into entrepreneurship after discovering that only 19% of UK entrepreneurs are women… So, we did what we do best! We gathered together an incredible group of women and friends to come together for good food and great conversation ✨ Hosted in partnership with Florence King, Lady Mayoress of the City of London, at the prestigious Mansion House, journalist Gaby Huddart chaired a panel of discussion with Holly Tucker MBE, Thomasina Miers, Micaela Sharp, Toria Smith and Social Pantry founder Alexandra Head to discuss all things women in business. KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💪 Confidence is built through mistakes and learning. It’s about believing in ourselves and ensuring others trust us too. 💪 Failure isn’t a setback but a stepping stone. It helps us refocus, build resilience, and adapt without taking it personally. 💪 Staying nimble is key. Understanding client needs and being flexible ensures success in a fast-changing world. 💪 Success isn’t solo. Surrounding ourselves with supportive, like-minded people makes challenges easier and collaboration more effective. 💪 Setting clear boundaries, taking guilt-free breaks, and prioritizing balance prevents burnout and sustains long-term success. Thank you so much to everyone who attended, took part and helped organise this inspiring event! Who’s in for next year? 👀 Wahaca GRAPE & Fig Holly & Co #womeninbusiness #femalefounders #ukentrepreneur #accelerateaction #iwd2025 📸 Cover image by Matt Chung Photo

2025 marks TEN years of Social Pantry mentoring, hiring and working alongside prison leavers, so we thought it only fair to share the ten biggest benefits we’ve seen in our journey so far…   All with the aim of encouraging more businesses - big and small - to get on board! 💪   1️⃣ Access to an Engaged Talent Pool Prison leavers bring unique skills, experiences, and perspectives to the workforce. Many have undergone vocational training or educational programs while in prison, making them skilled and eager to work.   2️⃣ Improved Employee Retention Studies show that individuals who are given a second chance demonstrate high levels of loyalty and commitment to their employers, reducing turnover and associated recruitment costs.   3️⃣ Providing Stability Employment provides prison leavers with a structured way to reintegrate into society after their time away. A stable job helps regain a sense of normalcy, independence, and a productive daily routine, enabling a smoother transition back into the community.   4️⃣ Reducing Reoffending Rates Employment is one of the most effective ways to significantly reduce reoffending rates. By providing stable jobs, businesses play a crucial role in helping individuals build a life outside of prison.   5️⃣ Filling Skills Shortages Prison leavers can fill vital roles in sectors facing labour shortages, such as construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and more, helping to address recruitment challenges.   6️⃣ Boosting Workplace Morale Employees can feel proud to work for companies that give people second chances, fostering a positive workplace culture of inclusion, support, and empathy.   7️⃣ Building a Sense of Belonging & Purpose Many prison leavers can experience social isolation after release, so being part of a team and working in a supportive environment can foster a feeling of inclusion and belonging whilst also helping to rebuild confidence and sense of purpose.   8️⃣ Reducing Stigma & Opening Future Opportunities Having meaningful employment can pave the way for personal growth, financial stability, and opportunities to achieve long-term goals, such as career advancement or further education. 9️⃣ Enhancing Social Responsibility for Better Business Demonstrating a commitment to social justice and community rehabilitation will in turn attract more ethically-minded suppliers and customers alike – resulting in better business. 1️⃣0️⃣ Making a Tangible Social Impact By hiring prison leavers, businesses actively offer second chances to those who are looking for them, as well as contributing to the rehabilitation of community members. This can create stronger communities, reduce public spending on reoffending, and foster a more inclusive society. #ExOffenderEmployment #EqualOpportunities #SecondChances

On Wednesday evening, we had the privilege of visiting Mansion House, a breathtaking Grade I listed venue in the heart of London. Home to the Lord Mayor of London, this historic residence was designed by the renowned George Dance the Elder in 1739. The venue offers four distinctive event spaces, including the Egyptian Hall, which accommodates up to 500 guests for receptions. The Salon, Drawing Rooms, and Long Parlour provide elegant settings for more intimate gatherings, hosting up to 150 guests for receptions. A truly iconic and prestigious venue in the heart of London. #EventVenues #MansionHouse #CorporateEvents #HistoricVenues #EventPlanning #SpectraDMC

The Grand Hall at Central Criminal Court, better known as The Old Bailey, is a truly majestic setting for events. This historic venue, synonymous with London’s legal heritage, offers an extraordinary backdrop for corporate receptions, private functions, and exclusive gatherings. With space for up to 300 guests, the Grand Hall combines architectural grandeur with an atmosphere of prestige. For more intimate events, The Judges' Dining Room provides an elegant setting, accommodating up to 80 guests for receptions. An iconic venue with a distinguished history, The Old Bailey offers a unique blend of heritage and sophistication for those seeking an unforgettable event space. #EventVenues #OldBailey #LuxuryEvents #CorporateEvents #ExclusiveHire #SpectraDMC

Fostering a culture of connection in the workplace isn’t always easy - but good food and a hot brew can work wonders ☕ Our workplace catering is designed to bring teams together, whether it’s: 
✨ A daily breakfast spread with freshly brewed tea and coffee 
🥗 A weekly team lunch that sparks conversation across departments 
🧀 A monthly social featuring a showstopping cheese and charcuterie board Create meaningful moments of connection and camaraderie with your team - speak to our Workplace Team today to find out how! ☎️ 020 8871 1949 💌 enquiries@socialpantry.co.uk #officecatering #londonbusiness #workplacewellness

We are over the M O O N to be joining the Science Museum Group's list of accredited suppliers! 🤩🌙✨ Nestled in the cultural heart of London, its stunning gallery spaces offer a world of wonder... From space exploration to medical history, engineering, aviation, technology, and beyond, there’s a perfect space for every occasion at the Science Museum! 🪐🩻🛩️ With 12 unique spaces available for private hire, this awe inspiring venue can host events for up to 1,500 guests 🙌 Here’s to creating unforgettable moments together in the years ahead! Corporate Events at the Science Museum 💙 #eventprofsuk #catering #eventvenue

Only 19% of UK entrepreneurs are women - let’s change that! 💪 With 997k women-led businesses in the UK (and counting!), we’re bringing together some of the most inspiring women founders to share their journeys, challenges and wins on International Women’s Day… Join us at Mansion House with The Lady Mayoress of the City of London Florence King alongside Social Pantry CEO and founder Alexandra Head for breakfast and a powerhouse panel discussion featuring: 🕊️ Holly Tucker MBE – Founder of Not On The High Street & Holly & Co 🌯 Thomasina Miers – Co-founder of Wahaca 
🛋️ Micaela Sharp – Founder of Micaela Sharp Design
 🧀 Toria Smith – Co-founder of GRAPE & Fig 🎤 Moderated by journalist Gaby Huddart - Former editor of Good Housekeeping Let’s inspire, empower & encourage more women into entrepreneurship. Who’s in? 💥 Register below for your FREE tickets! https://lnkd.in/e2X_7FXR #womeninbusiness #femalefounders #ukentrepreneur #accelerateaction #iwd2025

Yesterday our Managing Director Holly Jack spoke on a panel entitled "Strength Lies in Our Differences & Not Our Similarities", at Tech On Toast's Weareservice 💪 Alongside Jessica Tapfar (The Chancery Rosewood), James Brown (Prezzo) and Tom James (Bill's Restaurants), the panel explored how to engage teams, foster a positive workplace culture, and the importance of leadership being 'on the ground' to truly understand and support their people 👥 The key takeaway? Engagement is everything. Open communication, active listening, and involving teams in decision-making create a culture where people feel valued—and that’s when businesses thrive 🙌 Holly also shared how Social Pantry champions second chances by working with prison leavers. She touched on how each of our team is involved in prison visits and employment workshops behind bars, meaning everyone in our business has a role to play in the initiative that is part and parcel of our DNA. At a time when Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, Tech On Toast gave us the platform to spotlight the real, positive impact it has on businesses and individuals alike. A huge thank you to the panel, the audience, and everyone driving these conversations forward! ❤️