5th Aug 2008 - 00:00
Abstract
Avenance has ended negotiations to supply schools meals to children in Cornwall with only a matter of weeks to go until term time starts again.
The French company was awarded the contract in June and at the time the contract was valued at around £4.5m. Cornwall County Council is now liaising with Scolarest to find a solution to the problem. Avenance said in a statement: "Following lengthy discussions with Cornwall County Council we have taken the difficult decision not to proceed further with contract negotiations.These discussions are confidential and therefore it would be inappropriate to comment on the details, but we wish the Council every success in securing the right partner for this important role." The council said it is assessing its legal position in relation to the damage caused by Avenance pulling out at such a late stage.