Founded almost 14 years ago by Lucy Gemmell, and defined by her drive and creative flair from the outset, “rhubarb” has now evolved into a truly formidable food company. With event, retail, consultancy and fixed contract divisions, and with a crack team of skilled and experienced staff members, “rhubarb” has rightly earned its reputation as a member of the catering industry’s elite.

Founded in 1996, “rhubarb’s” early days were spent catering for small and exclusive canapé parties from Lucy’s own household kitchen. In 1998, the company had grown enough to move to small offices in Lavender Hill and shortly afterwards business really began to take off as “rhubarb” established a presence at all major London venues. Over the next five years “rhubarb” gained a truly superb reputation for catering for some of the biggest events around, such as Elton John’s Aids Foundation White Tie and Tiara Ball and the Ark Charity Gala.

In July 2004, the company moved to their current, extensive (over 11,000 square feet) and purpose built premises at Burr Road. The fixed contract side of the business began to develop from 2005 when “rhubarb” was awarded The Royal Ascot Racing Club Contract, and in 2007 when it won the Silver Fleet contract. The same year, with the company growing at enormous pace, another 8,000 square foot building was purchased in Wimbledon and “rhubarb” Hire now operates from that building.

The business development into the retail sector began in August 2008 when “rhubarb” food bar was opened at Heathrow Terminal 3. And in May 2009 “rhubarb” opened Gallery Mess at the Saatchi Gallery.