Celebrating a successful year of local collaboration at The County Ground

Celebrating a successful year of local collaboration at The County Ground

Image of Coach Road, the home ground of Exeter City Women

On 28 February 2026, the County FA will conclude its catering agreement with Exeter City FC at The County Ground, marking the end of a highly successful 12-month partnership built on collaboration, innovation and local pride.
 
The 12 month fixed term agreement, which began in March 2025, has delivered meaningful improvements to the food and drink offer at The County Ground, enhancing the experience for players, officials, volunteers and visitors alike.
 
Throughout the past year, the partnership has championed local collaboration and sustainable delivery, achieving a number of key milestones:

  • The creation of new partnerships with local businesses Bidfood and South West Sandwich Company
  • A move to local supplier Tolchards as the official drinks supplier, strengthening ties with the regional supply chain
  • The launch of a refreshed menu with a greater focus on healthier food options
  • The installation of two new kitchen facilities through The FA Howdens Programme, which, with the valued support of Exeter City FC, are now fully future-proofed
  • A significant uplift in standards and consistency across all kitchen operations at the venue

This partnership has provided the County FA with a valuable opportunity to review and refine its food and drink delivery model at The County Ground. As the organisation moves into the next phase, it is excited to build on this strong foundation continuing to prioritise local partnerships, quality and innovation as it develops an enhanced catering offer for all visitors, both on and off the field.
 
“I am delighted that our partnership with the Devon FA has proved beneficial to both parties and that this has enabled the Devon FA to move forward with its food and drink provision at the County Ground. I would like to wish Chris and his team all the very best for the future. I hope that Exeter City and the Devon FA will continue to work closely on projects in the future. – Clive Harrison, General Manager, Exeter City FC.”
 
Chris French, Devon FA CEO added “This has been a hugely positive year for Devon FA and for everyone who uses The County Ground. Working in partnership with Exeter City FC has allowed us to strengthen our food and drink offer, raise standards across our facilities and, importantly, build meaningful relationships with local suppliers.
 
The progress we’ve made over the past 12 months has given us the confidence and insight to evolve our delivery model and shape an exciting next chapter. I’d like to thank Exeter City FC and all our local partners for their support, collaboration and shared commitment to doing things the right way for our football community.”
 
The County FA would like to thank Exeter City FC and all local partners involved for their commitment, support and shared ambition over the past 12 months. Together, this collaboration has demonstrated the impact that strong local working can have in creating a better experience for the whole football community.
 
Devon FA will be announcing information on the catering offer at The County Ground from the 1st March later this month.