Gembex Lean 5s Implementation for Sodexo

Client: Sodexo, Global leader in food services and facilities management

Led by: Lee Bellis, GEMBEX Founding Consultant

Sodexo UK partnered with Lee on leading a comprehensive Lean 5s transformation initiative focused on Coaching over 122 people on embedding operational excellence across Hard FM, Soft FM, and Catering services.

The project is centred on 5S Training & Deployment and designed to support Sodexo teams on their Lean journey and build long-term, sustainable capability.

Gold text that reads 'Objectives' with a black background and three sparkles or stars.

  • Lead a comprehensive Lean transformation programme across Sodexo’s Hard FM, Soft FM, and Catering services.

  • Coach and develop over 122 staff members to embed operational excellence and continuous improvement behaviours.

  • Deploy 5S methodology (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) consistently across all service environments.

  • Build long-term internal capability through structured training, workplace engagement, and sustained audit routines.

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  • Delivered interactive 5S training workshops tailored to the specific needs of Hard FM, Soft FM, and Catering teams.

  • Conducted on-site workplace assessments to identify inefficiencies and improvement opportunities.

  • Provided real-time coaching for managers and frontline teams to support practical implementation of 5S principles.

  • Supported the creation of visual management systems to improve workflow clarity, communication, and operational flow.

  • Established 5S audits, daily routines, and sustainment practices to embed standard work and reinforce ongoing discipline.

The image contains the word 'Results' in gold font with three sparkling star-like graphics on a dark background.

  • Lean behaviours successfully embedded across multiple service categories, strengthening day‑to‑day operational delivery.

  • Increased staff engagement, ownership, and understanding of continuous improvement tools and expectations.

  • Improved operational consistency, reducing variation and supporting higher service standards across sites.

  • Greater clarity and efficiency achieved through enhanced visual controls and improved workplace organisation.

  • Stronger overall performance and readiness for continuous improvement across Sodexo’s service lines.

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  • Embedding Lean is most effective when training is paired with hands‑on coaching and immediate workplace application.

  • Sustaining 5S requires clear leadership commitment, routine audits, and visible standardisation to maintain momentum.

  • Building capability at all levels—not just management—creates a self-sustaining improvement culture.

  • The programme leaves a lasting legacy of structured processes, empowered teams, and a scalable Lean foundation for future operational excellence initiatives.