Kick starting this September, the new deal will see Sodexo assume responsibility for all catering, food retail and hospitality services across the university’s Coventry, London and Scarborough campuses, serving around 35,000 students and employees.
It will also invest in new facilities and digital services, such as a brand new app that will allow customers to pre-order and collect food and drink – ‘making it more convenient to get refreshments on campus.’
Operating 17 catering outlets in total, Sodexo will launch a number of food offers and brands, including a new coffee bar and vegan street food station as well as a permanent food truck.
Assistant director of catering and retail at Coventry University, Michael Ricketts, commented: “We are always looking to improve the experience for our students and staff so we are delighted to appoint Sodexo as our catering and hospitality providers.
“Good food plays an important role in our health and wellbeing as well as in the social fabric of our university.
“We were very pleased to discover that Sodexo shared our focus around sustainability, social values and community engagement.
“We are looking forward to welcoming them onto our campuses.”
Working alongside local food suppliers and social enterprises, the global foodservice firm has committed to using local produce ‘where possible.’
Paul Anstey, chief executive of schools and universities for Sodexo UK and Ireland, Benelux and Nordics, added: “Sodexo’s food offer is designed to meet students and employees varying needs, with an emphasis on healthy, fresh and affordable food.
“In line with the university’s ethos of sustainability, we will work with them to measure and reduce both food and packaging waste.
“We are delighted to have been appointed by Coventry University and look forward to working with them.”