Social Pantry appoints James Spragg as non-executive chairman

Spragg will work closely with Social Pantry CEO and founder Alex Head to accelerate the growth of the business, whilst maintaining its core values across sustainability and ex-offender hiring.

“I am delighted to join such a progressive company that is growing fast,” says Spragg

“Social Pantry is at an exciting point in its growth journey, with plans to achieve its B-Corp accreditation and a partnership with Olio now under its belt. I look forward to working together to deliver on its next phase of development.”

Spragg has more than 25 years of experience working with public and private equity companies across the hospitality sector. 

He led Casual Dining Group through the challenges of the pandemic, which led the Las Iguanas, Bella Italia and Café Rouge operator to appoint administrators in the summer of 2020, when it was acquired by private equity firm Epiris.

The business then rebranded as The Big Table, but continued to be led by Spragg and the existing management team. Spragg eventually left the group in March 2021​​. 

Since that year he's also served as non-executive chairman of Cambridgeshire premium pub-restaurant group, Cambscuisine.

“With a background growing some of the UK’s leading restaurants and hospitality brands, James is uniquely placed to take Social Pantry to the next level,” says Head, speaking of Spragg's appointment. 

“I could not be happier to begin working with him and look forward to unleashing exciting growth across our event and workplace catering.”