Catering Services 2017

Tender description

The University is seeking to appoint an operator to provide onsite catering services, for our Luton, Bedford and other campuses as required. The intention is that the Contract will be let on a Nil Cost basis; the Service Provider will recover operating costs from the revenue generated from catering operations. Service requirements include provision of restaurant services, cafés, retail, vending and corporate hospitality from both internal and external sources. The University expects to share in any profits generated via a variable return mechanism. A rent or fixed return to the University would also be preferable. The ideal partner should aim to provide a service that engages the student and staff population, offering a wide variety of meals and snacks, whilst considering multiple pricing ranges in order to minimise the cost burden on students. The offering should aim to be first choice, be customer focussed and takes into account the ethnic diversity and brand consciousness of the student and staff population. The overriding objective is to increase student and staff sales through promotions and innovation in service delivery and choices. The Service Provider will be required to work closely with BedsSU to provide the best experience possible for our students. The University is looking for a long-term partner to enhance the student experience by re-energising both the current food and facilities offer. Significant capital investment would be a key feature of this partnership and is reflected in the length of the contract which is expected to be 10 years (with mutually acceptable break options at the end of years three and six). There is scope for joint investment in this project