Innovative start-up cooks up a storm with council support

City of York Council has supported a pioneering food delivery business to get established in York, with the company now looking to launch in cities across the UK.

School Kitchen works in partnership with schools, taking over their kitchen facilities during the evenings and over the weekends. From their bases in schools, they run home delivery takeaway restaurants, with customers able to order from a wide range of world cuisines, from Sri Lankan to Mexican.

The scheme delivers a boost to school funding, with schools receiving a share of the business’ revenue. Partner schools can also benefit from free cookery demonstrations and classes with pupils.

Speaking in a new video, David outlined some of the challenges he faced when setting up a new business as a newcomer to the city.

With support from Brian Littlejohn, one of the council’s Business Growth Managers, and Steven Lydiatt, a business advisor from Momentic’s Start and Grow York programme, David was able to tap into a wealth of local business expertise.

Brian and Steven helped connect David to local suppliers and business networks, advised on marketing strategies to establish the new brand and reach consumer bases in York, and signposted him to local opportunities to grow the business.

Reflecting on the impact of this support for his business, David said:

"Establishing School Kitchen in York has been an incredible journey, made possible through the invaluable support from City of York Council and Momentic’s Start and Grow York programme.

“The guidance and connections have been instrumental in navigating the challenges that come with setting up a new business and we are deeply grateful for their ongoing assistance and encourage other start-ups to take full advantage of the resources available here in York.”

Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member for Economy and Culture, said:

“School Kitchen is a great example of what can happen when the City Council, and its partners, support innovative start-ups. York’s food scene continues to thrive, and if businesses out there could do with a hand to get started and grow, then we want to hear from you. If your idea can also bring much needed funds back into the community then we are doubly keen!

"In our council plan, One City for All, we committed to building a fair, thriving and green economy, and it’s wonderful to see that David chose York as the perfect place to get his business embodying these same values off the ground – I’d encourage anyone thinking of starting a business here to get in touch with us to discover how our expert business support team can help.”

Building on their initial pilot at Carr Junior School in Acomb, School Kitchen has further expansion planned, aiming to open new restaurants operating out of a second school in York, as well as locations in Leeds, London and Sheffield.

Urging other early stage businesses to make the most of the support on offer in York, David said:

“You’ll come to barriers and there will be ways around them and there’ll be people who can help, and that’s one of the things that the council and Momentic can help with – they can direct you to the right places to get through those challenges.

“When help is offered, take it ….it really is strength to admit that there’s something you don’t know how to do, that you need help with. That is what will help you succeed.”

Watch the full video to find out more about how the council and our partners helped School Kitchen grow in their first year of business: https://youtu.be/XnB6jAl1b08

If you’re looking for support with your growing business, start a conversation with the council’s Economic Growth team at economicgrowth@york.gov.uk

The council’s Business Growth Managers and the Start and Grow York programme, delivered by Momentic, are funded through the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.