Sodexo dropped the “H” in its name but gained a ten-year contract with Plymouth State this fall.
The contract was not up for renewal this year, but it was awarded as part of an undisclosed business agreement. “The contract was not up for renewal,” said Chris Mongeon, the general manager for Sodexo Dining services. “It was a contract extension,” he added.
Mongeon did not disclose whether or not dining options would be changing with the new contract but rather, Sodexo will be spending more time promoting its Mind, Body and Soul nutrition plan.
The Mind, Body and Soul nutrition plan was designed as a way for students to better take control of their lives through smart dining choices as well as educating students how to take proper care of them while maintaining a busy college schedule.
“We didn’t really change any programs,” Mongeon said. The new contract mainly effects employees of Sodexo, and does not directly impact the student’s meal choices. “It increases longevity amongst the staff,” Mongeon said.
With the new contract, employees can be comfortable with the fact that the company will not be moving out of the area anytime soon.
While the new contract may not directly impact the average student, there was some concern regarding the act that there was no student input with the contract renewal. When a contract is up for renewal, students input is solicited, however, in Sodexo’s case, the contract was not up for renewal. Instead it was extended as part of a monetary agreement with the school.
“I think it is a good thing for the students,” USSB representative Gene Martin said, “It is a financial benefit for the school at this time.” Martin continued that the contract extension would not have been completed if there was not a “high satisfaction” with Sodexo’s services.
New food services in the Mountain View snack bar in the HUB were also unveiled this semester. “Earth Tones” opened on Sept. 3, and offers vegan, vegetarian, organic and locally grown food.
Those with sensitive food articles may also find solace in the new choice, which offers some gluten free products, such as a gluten free pizza. Unfortunately, with the highly specialized cuisine offered from “Earth Tones” comes a higher price tag. Many of the products, including the gluten free pizza cost more than gluten-laden pizza.
“The profits will be lower because the ingredients cost more,” Mongeon said. As the price of ingredients climb, the price of the final product climbs as well. This may test some students’ willingness to pay extra.
Other barriers with “Earth Tones” include the growing season in northern New England. “The first frost will be in two to three weeks, so there will be less local foods,” Mongeon said.