Membership Services: Member Craftsman, Master Craftsman, Student/Trainee, Associate Member, Retired Member
Competitions: National Chef of the Year, Young National Chef of the Year, Graduate Awards, British Culinary Championships, Dessert of the Year
Educational Programs: Culinary Academy, Training Organizations, Accredited Colleges & Training Organizations, College and Course Accreditation Policy, Bursary Fund
Endorsements: Endorsed Scheme, Endorsed Products
The Craft Guild of Chefs is the United Kingdom’s premier professional association for chefs, representing culinary excellence and advancement in the hospitality industry since its founding in 1885. Based in Richmond, the Guild serves as a vital platform for chefs at all career levels — from aspiring students to senior professionals — promoting education, innovation, and recognition within the culinary community.
The Guild’s mission is to inspire, support, and develop professional chefs and culinary students by providing resources, mentorship, and a network of culinary excellence. As a non-profit organization, it supports the advancement of skills, education, and best practices in the hospitality sector.
The Craft Guild of Chefs offers tiered membership packages that provide access to a vast network of professionals, industry resources, training opportunities, and prestigious national competitions.
Members benefit from:
As of 2024, the Guild has a strong membership base of over 5,000 active members across the UK and Europe.
The Craft Guild of Chefs hosts the UK’s most prestigious culinary competitions that spotlight emerging and established talent.
In 2023, over 1,200 chefs participated in Guild-run competitions, and 30+ industry sponsors contributed, including Unilever, Rational, and Churchill.
Education is a cornerstone of the Guild’s initiatives. Through partnerships with culinary colleges and training organizations, the Guild:
The Guild’s influence spans more than 100 accredited institutions and supports over 2,000 culinary students annually.
The Guild runs a robust Endorsed Scheme, allowing select products and services to be officially recognized for quality and relevance to culinary professionals.
Endorsed products gain visibility through Guild events, competitions, and digital channels.
Available on their YouTube channel, these videos document the scale, professionalism, and inspiration driving Guild events.
Led by CEO Andrew Green, a veteran in the culinary sector, the Guild is managed by a board of seasoned hospitality professionals and regional ambassadors. Their governance ensures alignment with evolving industry standards and educational frameworks.
These resources are distributed both digitally and at national events to keep members informed and engaged.
The Guild supports multiple charitable initiatives:
With a heritage spanning nearly 140 years, the Craft Guild of Chefs is the definitive voice and support structure for professional chefs in the UK. Through its education programs, competitions, endorsements, and community-driven initiatives, it continues to raise the standards and visibility of the culinary profession on national and global stages.
