TUCO recognises industry’s finest at 2024 awards ceremony


The winners of the 2024 TUCO Awards were announced at this year’s Conference Gala Dinner on Wed 31st July 2024.

The Awards recognise effort, improvement and achievement from all levels of staff within TUCO member institutions. The aim of the TUCO Awards (sponsored by Britvic) is to celebrate teamwork and also the individuals who might not always be standing over a stove each day, but who also work hard to create an innovative catering operation that gets results and creates customer loyalty.

King’s College London and King’s Food swept up on the night, receiving three awards: the Sustainability Award, TUCO Member of the Year, and TUCO Team of the Year - celebrating their commitment to sustainability alongside stellar catering operations.

Manish Shah, Associate Director at King's Food, said: 'Being nominated for any award is highly commendable, but winning three is truly outstanding! I am delighted with this achievement and proud to be part of the dynamic King's Food team. These awards validate our excellent work, innovative thinking, collaboration with academics, and most importantly, our strong relationship with suppliers. Now that we've set the bar high for ourselves, the hard work begins.'

For the Rising Star award, of the winner, Lisa Mason, one of the judges commented: 'Lisa Mason has demonstrated exceptional commitment and innovation in her role at Ayrshire College. Her work in organising events like #Walk4Lionheart, her involvement in the Rose Reilly Girls Football Academy, and the #BeAwesomeBeActive Older Adult group showcase her dedication to promoting mental health, wellbeing, and community engagement. Her leadership and empathetic qualities are outstanding, making her a role model in the hospitality sector.'

Congratulations to all the winners!
We are delighted to announce the 2024 winners:

Innovation Award
Catering Team - Edge Hill University

Rising Star Award
Lisa Mason - Ayrshire College

Sustainability Award
King's Food - King's College London

TUCO Member of the Year
King's College London

TUCO Team of the Year
King's Food Team - King's College London

Outstanding Achievement Award
Jacqui Beazley, London School of Economics