Changes to University catering outlet hours of operation
Friday, 27 July 2012
University Catering Services have announced a number of operational changes which will affect opening periods of some outlets across the University, starting from Christmas vacation 2012.
Five outlets will remain open all year round. These have been selected to ensure there is a good geographical spread of catering options across the University: Dol.cHe Vita, Eat at the Square, Eat at Enterprise, Eat & Drink at London Road, and Eat at Sports Park. The remainder of University catering outlets will move to a reduced opening schedule, and will close during vacation periods. Bars will be unaffected.
Matthew White, Head of Catering Services, said: "We are committed to providing choice and flexibility to staff, students and visitors. These plans are a response to changing consumer habits, current business demands and the broader impact on catering of the economic climate, but they also ensure that staff will continue to enjoy plenty of choice at outlets that reflect the main working locations on campus and that we also provide an excellent flexible offering to fully-catered students.
"Catering Services will be happy to discuss with schools and departments any particular needs they may have in relation to events or specific course demands for which we may be able to arrange a service, but obviously this will have to be balanced with reasonable financial expectations"
The plan will provide a range of options for international students during vacation periods and catering services will also continue to support catering bookings and events, through Venue Reading. Both fully-catered students arriving for their first year this autumn, as well as returning students to halls, have been made aware of the range of catering choices available.
The new operating periods will mean changes in staffing and roles for many catering staff. A formal consultation with affected staff has begun.
While the changes will take effect from 1 August, staff and other customers will not see any difference in the service until the Christmas vacation.