Mersey Ferry On Board Café Concessions Catering Contract LOT 1A

Description

Mersey Ferries is one of the most recognisable symbols of the Liverpool City Region - a cultural icon with over 800 years of history on the River Mersey and an internationally known brand. Today the ferries serve more than 480,000 passengers a year, connecting tourists, commuters, local families, and school groups with one of the region’s most memorable visitor experiences. Operating daily sightseeing cruises, essential commuter services, and seasonal themed journeys, the ferries offer unrivalled views of Liverpool’s waterfront and play a major role in the city’s cultural and tourism landscape. With the introduction of a new vessel, the Royal Daffodil, in 2026 operating alongside the much-loved Snowdrop (Dazzle), Mersey Ferries is entering a period of renewal - and is seeking food and beverage partners who can match this ambition with creativity, professionalism, and a passion for hospitality. The tender is structured across three lots, covering onboard catering, shoreside operations, and special event catering. Bidders may apply for one, two, or all three, with contract terms of 3 + 1 + 1 years. Lot 1a – Onboard Café & Bar (Main Ferry Services) Operation of the café and bar across daytime sightseeing cruises, commuter sailings, and seasonal evening and premium cruises on two vessels (Snowdrop and Royal Daffodil). The successful provider must offer high-quality, well-presented food and drink from small servery areas (no commercial kitchen), deliver smooth service in a mobile, variable-demand environment, maintain strong staff standards and compliance, and introduce creativity, sustainability, and themed experiences. 2024/25 turnover: £375k. Keywords: Catering , Ferry, Café , Food Provision