Niagara College will welcome a new foodservice provider effective August 1, as Chartwells takes over management of NC’s cafeteria and on-campus catering services.
Chartwells, part of Compass Canada, is a leading foodservice and support services company, and takes over from long-time provider Aramark. Chartwells was selected after a comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) process that commenced at the conclusion of Aramark’s existing contract.
The biggest change students and staff can expect is a broader range of self-serve, nutritional options, along with enhanced customer service and prices lowered by 5%, according to Jorge Dominguez, NC’s Facilities Services manager.
“Prior to embarking on our RFP process, we conducted a foodservice survey and focus groups to identify the college’s key needs and expectations when it comes to foodservice,” said Dominguez. “The results of this research guided our selection process.”
Other changes may include improvements and upgrades of cafeteria facilities – with proposals currently under review – as well as the introduction of new franchises and brands to complement the existing Subway and Tim Hortons franchises. A Subway will also be added to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, scheduled to open this fall.
Where students and staff won’t see a change is with existing meals plans, catering orders and the ordering process for on-campus catering – the transition in all of these areas will be seamless. Chartwells will also continue to run the popular on-campus Tim Hortons and Subway franchises. Current Aramark employees will also have the opportunity to interview for positions with Chartwells.
As part of this new partnership, Chartwells has also committed to adding Niagara College products – including wine and beer from the Teaching Brewery and Winery – to its catering menus in locations across Ontario.
For more details, please view Frequently Asked Questions below.
FAQ
Q: When does the change take place?
A: The new provider, Chartwells, takes over on August 1
Q: Why is this change taking place?
A: The previous provider, Aramark, has a contract for foodservice that expires on July 31, 2013. As required by purchasing policy, the College commenced a Request for Proposal (RFP)process to invite proposals for the provision of foodservices at Niagara College. Chartwells was the successful bidder in this process.
Q: How was Chartwells chosen?
A: Prior to the RFP process, Niagara College conducted a comprehensive foodservice survey, as well as focus groups, to identify the foodservice and catering needs and expectations of Niagara College students and staff. The results of this research guided the selection process.
Q: What will change?
A: The biggest changes will be a broader range of self-serve and nutritional options, enhanced customer service and lower prices.
Q: I’ve already purchased a meal card – will it still be honoured?
A: Yes, purchased meal cards/plans will be automatically transferred to the new provider.
Q: Will the Subway and Tim Hortons franchises remain?
A: Yes, the new provider will automatically take over the existing on-campus franchises.
Q: I’ve placed a catering order. Do I need to re-place the order with the new provider?
A: No, all catering orders will be automatically transferred t o the new provider.
Q: Will the process change for on-campus catering orders?
A: No, the online process for placing catering orders at niagaracollege.catertrax.com/ will remain the same.
Q: Will the current Aramark employees have the opportunity to work for Chartwells?
A: Yes, in accordance with employment legislation, current Aramark employees will have the opportunity to interview for similar positions with the new provider.
