The graduates were recognised at BaxterStorey’s first-ever Chef Expo – a celebration of sustainable food innovation and culinary talent marking three years since the launch of the company’s internal ‘Obsessed’ culture.

Hosted at Protein Studios in Shoreditch, the event brought together more than 300 team members and industry guests for a full-sensory experience showcasing BaxterStorey’s commitment to foodservice.

Since its inception, BaxterStorey’s Chef Academy has offered hands-on learning, mentorship and career development, with chef partner workshops, supplier-led study tours and practical masterclasses from butchery and bread-making to flavour profiling. 

Since 2022, 85% of level 2 and 3 chefs achieved distinctions, well above the national average of 55%. Almost two-thirds (63%) of chefs that go through the academy are promoted within two years of graduation. 

BaxterStorey chief executive Ronan Harte said: “The Chef Academy culture underpins everything we do – taking the best people and investing in them, to create something really special. It has given me great pleasure over the years to see those who have come through the Academy grow and become the driving force behind the innovation and success of our business.

“This event celebrates three years of truly changing the game in foodservice. Our Obsessed culture empowers our teams to create memorable dining through craft, creativity, and cheer. We’ve celebrated the momentum we’re building – and how we continue to positively disrupt the industry.”