Sir Jim Ratcliffe considers outsourcing catering at Man United

After Sir Jim Ratcliffe took executive control at Man United, he introduced a series of changes to reduce operating costs as the club continues to deal with heavy debt. Now, reports say he is in talks to outsource Man United’s catering, according to The Sun.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has asked his team to find a company that can provide all food and drink services for the club, with the aim of saving money. Currently, Man United are in discussions with Levy, part of the Compass Group. The deal could be worth millions of pounds, with both parties sharing profits.

However, the potential agreement has raised concerns among catering staff, who fear losing their jobs. Sources told The Sun: “The catering staff are concerned that any potential change could see them lose their jobs. The club have been at pains to explain that by law, any outsourcing deal has to guarantee their jobs, but some take great pride in being employed by Manchester United. It’s a worrying time for them". Although, according to the club, these changes are not about job cuts but rather about “what is the best catering model for the club, and ultimately for fans.”

These rumours surfaced shortly after Man United announced their first-quarter profits of 2025, with operating profit rising to £13 million. Despite this, the club’s total debt has climbed to a record £1.29 billion. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already made several cost-cutting decisions, including laying off 450 staff, ending Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial role, and removing free lunches for club employees, all in an effort to control spending after years of overspending.

Chief executive Omar Berrada commented on their financial situation: “These robust financial results reflect the resilience of Manchester United as we make strong progress in our transformation of the club. The difficult decisions we have made in the past year have resulted in a sustainably lower cost base and a more streamlined, effective organisation equipped to drive the club towards improved sporting and commercial performance over the long term. That has helped us to invest in our men’s and women’s teams, sitting in sixth and third places in the Premier League and Women’s Super League respectively.”