Recently, ASM Global’s Huntington Place and “Sodexo Live!” proudly announced the extension of their professional partnership for another 10 years. According to the release, “The
said extension was driven by a shared commitment to guest satisfaction and delivering best-in-class hospitality experiences.”
But first, a little background. Huntington Place is Detroit’s award-winning convention center with 723,000 square feet of exhibit space, among other attributes. Equally impressive, Sodexo Live! has been the exclusive food and beverage provider for Huntington Place for the past 10 years. Huntington Place’s eagerness to continue this professional partnership with Sodexo Live! was based on several important factors – all of which were “designed to enhance the experience for event planners and attendees alike.” Such factors were as follows:
- 24/7 Walk Out Store – A revolutionary, checkout-free shopping experience that allows guests to purchase items quickly and conveniently without waiting in line. Whether Before, during, or after events, this cutting-edge technology ensures efficiency, reduces congestion, and provides 24-hour accessibility.
- Transformation of In-House Café – This reimagined space will offer an expanded selection of food and beverages in a welcoming atmosphere. Enhancements include modernized layouts, improved guest flow, upgraded equipment, and additional points of sale, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
- Culinary Equipment Investments – A comprehensive review of back-of-house culinary operations has led to significant refrigeration and kitchen infrastructure investments. These upgrades will enhance food safety and operational efficiency.
- Upgraded Point of Sale (POS) System – A new POS system distributed throughout the venue will facilitate faster, more accurate transactions while providing valuable data insights to refine marketing strategies.
- Annual Innovation Fund – A $50,000 per year investment in new initiatives will support the continuous evolution of Huntington Place’s food and beverage program, ensuring ongoing improvements that align with industry trends and client needs.
According to Bryan Crowe, CEO of the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority, “Huntington Place’s top priority is delivering an unparalleled guest and client experience and
Sodexo Live! has consistently demonstrated its ability to make that happen. Their commitment to operational excellence and culinary creativity made them the choice for this continued
partnership. We are excited for what the next decade will bring.”
Speaking for Sodexo Live! Belinda Oakley, CEO of Sodexo Live!, shares the same sentiment: “This partnership extension is a true testament to the deep collaboration and shared commitment between our teams. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of innovation, redefine hospitality experiences, and set new standards of excellence for the industry.”
For instance, Executive Chef Stephan Blaser is at the heart of Sodexo Live!’s culinary program at Huntington Place. He has been a leader in the industry for nearly 40 years and a valued leader in Detroit’s event dining scene. He seamlessly blends international flavors with locally sourced ingredients, crafting menus that celebrate Detroit’s culinary heritage while catering to the diverse needs of event attendees.
More than that, in 2024, Huntington Place achieved a milestone waste diversion impact rate with the help of Sodexo Live! each step of the way. After events, donations of prepared but
unused meals are promptly given to local food rescue programs to reduce the carbon footprint and serve local community members needing a meal. Additionally, food scraps that
can become composted and distributed to local urban farms in Detroit are sent to Hammond Farms.
That said, expect the same professional expertise in the F&B department when booking Huntington Place – and then some. For more information:
www.huntingtonplacedetroit.com.
