About Chapman Holmes

A brief history.

Grant Chapman is the founder and Managing Director of Chapman Holmes.

Grant started his catering career at the age of 14, in his fathers cafeterias and fish and chips shops in Salford, Manchester.

At 16, he attended Salford Technical College and achieved distinction grades in all of his catering examinations.

Early in his career he cheffed at hotels such as Broughton Park, Preston and Midland Hotel, Manchester. He later transferred to management for the Embassy Group. Within four years he became General Manger of a luxury hotel in Norwich.

With his entrepreneurial skills, Grant became self employed and formed "Chapman Holmes" in 1988 with his school friend Stuart Holmes.

Initially working from home, Grant and Stuart catered for more than 50 events in their first year of business.

The duo's first big break came in 1990, when they were awarded the contract to cater and event direct "The Official Opening of The Conway Tunnel". Their responsibilities included, marquees, logistical support, security (high level), floral arrangements, interior design and cuisine. They catered for 2000 VIP guests over a period of four days, culminating with Queen Elizabeth II being guest of honour for a gourmet dinner for 600 dignitaries.

Grant describes himself as "a gourmand", or someone who's chief pleasure is eating, and it was after this love of food that Chapman Holmes' purpose built premises were named in 2005.

The 6000 square foot purpose built office and modern production facility is located on the outskirts of Manchester. The facility boasts a state of the art production kitchen, plus conference, tasting and theming rooms. It is the largest purpose built event unit in the North West of England.

"I awarded a contract to Chapman Holmes for the supply of catering services to the Cheshire Polo Club at our premier tournaments. As you can image the guests are used to only the best, and demand a high quality of both service and food... In short I can say nothing negative and thanks to Chapman Holmes I am now viewed as some sort of wonder god at the club."
Tony Wilson
Cheshire Polo Club