Food Service Industry Success Story in Fairfax

Food Service with Purpose

Founded in 1992, Thompson Hospitality is the nation’s largest minority – owned food service company. The family – run organization prides itself on building client, customer and community relationships and aims to “redefine the art of hospitality.”

The company’s founder and CEO, Warren Thompson, created Thompson Hospitality Corporation, LLC in 1992, then in 1997 Thompson forged a strategic partnership with Compass Group, the world’s largest food service company. Today, Thompson Hospitality has a presence in more than 45 states and four foreign countries, while maintaining its roots in Fairfax County.

Headquartered in the Reston community of Fairfax County, Thompson Hospitality has continued to expand its portfolio of restaurants including Maker’s Union at the Reston Town Center, Be Right Burger, Willie T’s, Hen Quarter, Milk & Honey, American Tap Room, Big Buns Burgers at the Wiehle – Reston Metro, The Delegate in Washington D.C., in addition to acquiring chain restaurants like Austin Grill and Matchbox in many locations throughout the DMV.

Thompson Hospitality’s location in Fairfax County has spurred growth and development in the region, with restaurants that focus on hiring diverse employees and serving the community’s needs. At the core of the company’s mission is its goal to celebrate diversity and give back to the local community.

“Growing up in the south and experiencing racism first hand encouraged me to find ways to improve situations by making organizations more inclusive and diverse,” Thompson said.

Thompson Hospitality is not only reaching its goals but exceeding them. Thompson Hospitality was recognized as Company of the Year in 2010 by Black Enterprise Magazine and was named the No. 1 Minority – Owned Company by the Washington Business Journal in 2017, in addition to a host of other awards and achievements.

As the company continues to grow, it seeks top – notch talent to fill essential roles, from executive positions to experienced chefs and waitstaff. With a workforce of 3.4 million, the region has no  shortage of qualified talent to fill these roles. In fact, more than 60 percent of the region’s population holds a bachelor’s degree. As companies in Northern Virginia continue to expand, the regional workforce expands to meet the demand for talent, helping Fairfax County and its businesses reach new levels of success.