Sysco GB has announced that it will be the main sponsor of Ashford Pride for the third year running as part of its Pride Month celebrations.
Ashford Pride takes place on 20 June, and the sponsorship is part of a packed programme to showcase Pride at Sysco GB, with every site in the network undertaking activity to support the LGBTQ+ community.
Ashford is the home of Brakes, the nation’s largest foodservice wholesaler, which was acquired by Sysco in 2016, and the Pride celebrations not only recognise the importance of diversity within Sysco GB, but also Brakes’ heritage having had its headquarters in Ashford for more than 50 years.
Sysco GB’s 2026 Pride programme builds on the momentum of previous years and the expanding work of Spectrum, the company’s colleague network for the LGBTQ+ community. The enhanced programme forms part of a long-term commitment to deepen understanding, visibility and support for LGBTQ+ colleagues across the business.
This year’s Pride activity introduces curated events to drive understanding and awareness including a live event featuring Sysco LGBTQ+ chefs, Pause for Purpose with Pride, weekly Pride quizzes, Allies to Advocates training and a Global Pride video for all colleagues to get involved and show their support. New content will be released throughout the month to encourage learning, allyship and conversations across all Sysco GB sites.
Spectrum has also expanded its Champions network by eight colleagues, meaning that there are now nineteen visible, trained allies supporting colleagues and raising awareness across every part of the business.
On 23 June, Sysco colleagues around the world will unite for Global Pride Day, marking the company’s shared commitment to inclusion across all markets.
Katrina Simpson-Haines, HR Director for Sysco GB, said: “Kicking off this year’s Pride activity really reinforces our ongoing commitment to providing an environment where every colleague feels seen and supported. Our support for the LGBTQ+ community isn’t confined to a single moment in the calendar, it’s embedded in how we operate every day. Spectrum, alongside our leaders and HR teams across the business, continues to help us build a culture where individuality is respected and everyone has the space to thrive.”
Jon Newman-Schultz and Aby Rishworth, Co-Chairs of Spectrum, added: “It’s been incredible to watch Pride evolve across Sysco GB, with more colleagues engaging, learning and showing allyship each year. The refreshed programme gives people even more ways to connect with the resources and support available to them. Our goal is simple: to make sure every colleague feels confident, informed and able to bring their whole self to work, not just during Pride, but all year round.”
As part of this year’s activity, Sysco GB will continue its fundraising efforts for AKT, the charity supporting displaced LGBTQ+ young people by providing safe homes, emergency support and pathways to a more secure future.
Comments are closed.