The Jockey Club has partnered with sports and entertainment hospitality provider Levy on a 20-year deal that will see a £100 million (€116m/$133m) investment aimed at revolutionizing the customer experience across the group’s UK racecourses.
The existing joint venture, Jockey Club Catering, will be rebranded as Jockey Club Experiences, expanding its role to include end-to-end hospitality sales, conferencing and events, retail merchandising, and continued food and beverage services.
Key Investment Highlights
- Digital Ticketing: Introduction of a digital-based ticketing system across all racecourses over 12–18 months, enhancing customer access and database management.
- Cheltenham Upgrades: Revamped weighing room with state-of-the-art facilities for participants, rooftop hospitality for spectators, upgraded main grandstand, and refurbishment of The Centaur and Gold Cup suites.
- Aintree Enhancements: Investment in owners’ and trainers’ facilities, a new structure overlooking the Red Rum Garden, and improved on-course irrigation during the Grand National Festival.
- Epsom Downs Transformation: Multi-million-pound refurbishment for The Derby, including upgrades to the Duchess Stand and a full renovation of the Queen Elizabeth II Stand.
The investment is funded by Levy’s parent company, Compass Group, and aims to deliver a “step change” in the race-day experience across The Jockey Club’s 15 venues.
Executive Perspectives
Jon Davies, CEO of Levy, described the partnership as a defining moment for British racing, emphasizing the goal of setting a global standard for race-day hospitality:
“Together with The Jockey Club, we are committed to elevating the experience for racegoers and strengthening the sport’s position on the world stage.”
Jim Mullen, CEO of The Jockey Club, added:
“This long-term partnership with a proven worldwide operator allows us to invest in both the sport and the customer experience. We want spectators to enjoy racing and hospitality and return more often, and this collaboration with Levy and Compass will help us achieve that.”
The initiative marks one of the most significant investments in UK horse racing hospitality in recent years, with a clear focus on modernizing facilities, enhancing fan engagement, and integrating technology to improve access and service across all racecourses.