Rushton’s, the New Covent Garden Market‑based fresh produce supplier to the catering and foodservice sectors, has been named Food Brand of the Year at the Caterer Supplier Awards, in recognition of its leadership in quality, sustainability and supplier-chef collaboration within the hospitality sector.

Judges of the awards praised the business for combining ethical enterprise and measurable sustainability with a modern, chef‑focused approach to fresh produce supply.

Operating from a BRC‑accredited base at the Market, in Nine Elms, Rushton’s supplies more than 375 restaurants, pubs, bars, hotels and caterers across London, specialising in seasonal British produce alongside premium Italian specialities. The business is owned by S Thorogood and Sons, a family farming company with roots dating back to 1922, giving Rushton’s a deep connection to agriculture, seasonality and long‑term grower relationships.

Central to the award win was Rushton’s sustainability strategy. In November 2025, the company became the only B2B greengrocer in London to hold both ISO 14001 and Zero Waste to Landfill certification, demonstrating independently audited environmental performance at a time when hospitality operators face increasing pressure to evidence responsible sourcing.

Judges also recognised the company’s market leadership and recent growth, achieved despite ongoing challenges in the hospitality sector. Over the past year, Rushton’s has strengthened its brand presence, improved digital traceability and expanded its offer, including the acquisition of Mushroom Man, creating a specialist mushroom range it claims is unmatched in quality and consistency.

Strong relationships with British growers remain at the heart of the business, including its own asparagus - grown using regenerative farming principles with more than 50 years of expertise, which exemplifies the provenance and care behind the products Rushton’s supplies.

Accepting the award, Rushton’s said the recognition reflects a shared achievement across its growers, customers and team. Director Will Thorogood said: “Winning Food Brand of the Year is a huge moment for us, but it’s also just part of a bigger journey. With over a century of heritage behind us, a clear focus on sustainability and a deep connection to London’s hospitality sector, we’re continuing to evolve what it means to be a modern fresh produce supplier.

“Our focus remains the same. To support chefs with the best possible produce, to strengthen the link between farm and kitchen and to keep pushing standards forward across the industry. This award belongs to our team, our growers and the chefs we work with every day. We’re just getting started.”