Perfect blend for Yorkshire coffee firm with new LUFC partnership

A Yorkshire refreshments specialist has won a major contract to supply coffee at the home ground of Leeds United Football Club.

Vending machine and refreshments systems company Upton Group has secured the contract to provide all the filter coffee to a range of outlets at Elland Road.

The firm, which has bases in Scarborough, York and Hull, secured the initial five-year deal after LUFC representatives visited Upton Group’s artisan coffee roaster, York Emporium, to sample various coffees.

Representatives of the club chose the Mocha Java blend to be served in all hospitality suites and boxes at Elland Road, including all non-match day events, weddings and VIP dinners.

Leeds United general manager, Rob Smyth, commented: “There is no doubt that people’s expectations about the quality of coffee they wish to drink has changed and this is why we are delighted to work with a Yorkshire-based top-quality supplier.

“The coffee will mainly be served at conferences, events and match day hospitality. We want to be different and quirky and I believe York Emporium and Upton Group can help us achieve this.”

Upton Group chairman, Alec Upton, added: “Winning any large contract is great news. However, as LUFC supporters and with any chance of a football- playing career now long gone, this is the closest we can come to living the dream.

“We believe Leeds United is developing strongly again with promotion possible this year and we will be very proud to be associated with this success in our own small way.”