As sustainability initiatives ramp up throughout the events industry, one major area that venues around the world are experimenting with is food. For example, Amadeus recently launched carbon menu labeling at two NEC Group venues in the UK to encourage event attendees to make more sustainable choices when it comes to their meals.
ASM Global has taken a similar step in its new multiyear partnership with plant-based meal provider Wicked Kitchen, which will see the roll out of more vegan, sustainable food options at select Savor-managed venues, including stadiums, arenas, and convention centers, for events of all types. Plant-based options have been on the rise in the last few years, and it’s exciting to see industry leaders like ASM Global taking steps to make them even more accessible to fans and event attendees.
“We’re proud to be a part of the solution for ASM Global’s large-scale venues to meet their sustainability goals and to provide plant-based foods that appeal to everyone,” said Pete Speranza, CEO of Wicked Kitchen. “With the product variety and insights that Wicked Kitchen brings, we see this as a major game-changer for the food service industry.”
Wicked Kitchen, led by chefs Chad and Derek Sarno, is known for being an innovator in the plant-based food space and creating recipes with familiar flavors that appeal to meat-eaters and vegans alike. They also have a line of pre-packaged foods available at retail stores as well as a cookbook. This partnership is another big step towards getting their food in front of more people and increasing the visibility of plant-based meals.
“This partnership between ASM Global, SAVOR and Wicked Kitchen is an integral part of ASM Global’s commitment to establishing the most sustainable venues in the world,” added Shaun Beard, SAVOR senior vice president. “Our plant-based food offerings will immediately increase, providing our guests with more diverse choices that have also a positive impact on our planet. Additionally, Wicked Kitchen’s product offering is delicious, and we are confident that all of our guests, no matter their food preference, will be drawn to these menu items.”