Sodexo has won its first Irish university catering contract worth €2m annually, from NUI Galway, one of Ireland’s oldest and largest universities.
Sodexo will now be managing An Bhialann, the restaurant at the heart of NUI Galway’s campus, seating 720 people. Sodexo will work closely with local suppliers to offer food that is fresh, tasty and ethically-sourced whilst still competitively priced. With a commitment to locally-sourced and fresh food, Sodexo spent €21m on Irish food last year. A new selection of menu items will refresh and modernise the catering space.
Commercial manager at NUI Galway, Ann Duggan said: “We are delighted to welcome Sodexo, the global leader in the provision of catering services within the University sector internationally, and look forward to working with this innovative company who will provide a bespoke food offering focusing on wholesome, locally sourced food enhanced through the involvement of local food advisers to students, staff and visitors.”
Chief Executive at Sodexo Universities UK, Ireland and Nordics said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Sodexo. NUI Galway is one of Ireland’s most well-respected and popular universities.
“Sodexo has an excellent reputation for catering and using locally sourced and fresh food in Ireland. We are confident we can bring together strong sector and local knowledge to provide a superbly-executed and innovative food offer for NUI Galway.”
Sodexo aims to minimise food waste by introducing LeanPath technology which allows kitchen staff to track, monitor and minimise waster using a tablet device.
Sodexo provides catering, accommodation, FM and hospitality services to 50 universities and colleges across the UK and Ireland. The company’s global universities business has a turnover of €2.6B.
The company delivers integrated services that improve the quality of life of clients in sectors including business, industry, education, financial and healthcare in Ireland. Sodexo employs 2,100 members of staff in 200 locations.
