Sodexo is enhancing its InReach offerings by acquiring CRH Catering, a premier convenience solutions provider and one of the largest independent operators in the Mid-Atlantic region.

This acquisition supports Sodexo's food model transformation and expands its presence in the rapidly growing $30bn US convenience market.

The deal is expected to bolster Sodexo's territorial presence on the East Coast. 

With CRH Catering, Sodexo is broadening its multi-channel offerings, including micro-markets, vending, office coffee, pantry, fresh food, and on-site food services.  

CRH Catering’s commissary will facilitate strategic synergies between offsite production and convenience in key Northeast and Mid-Atlantic markets.  

Sodexo targets $500m in revenue from InReach by the end of next year.

The acquisition reflects Sodexo's ambition to scale its food distribution models to meet evolving consumer needs such as grab-and-go fresh food and healthier snacks, in the hybrid work environment.

This marks Sodexo’s seventh acquisition in the convenience services sector since 2022.

Sodexo North America CEO Sarosh Mistry said: “The acquisition of CRH Catering represents a significant step in our growth plans by expanding InReach’s retail offerings in the US. It reflects our ambition to become a leader in on-site convenience solutions.

“With this deal, we’ll be able to rapidly expand our presence in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic markets to further meet the growing demand that clients and consumers are showing in innovative retail options.

“We look forward to welcoming and working closely with CRH Catering, a company with an outstanding reputation, and a world-class team. We expect this to be a great fit culturally and to be able to seamlessly transition the business in the coming months.”

Established in 1967, CRH Catering is a family-owned business that operates in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, New Jersey, and North Carolina. 

The acquisition is expected to close in the first half of fiscal year 2025. 

CRH Catering president and VP Joe and Peter Cordaro said: “We are thrilled to join Sodexo and contribute to InReach expansion. As a family-owned company, we share the same values, culture and passion for service excellence. We are proud to bring our technologies and expertise to deliver high-value consumer experiences across North America.” 

In September 2024, Sodexo UK & Ireland inaugurated its flagship Modern Recipe restaurant concept in the UK, aimed at transforming the workplace dining experience.