Background
The general perception of the current service standard was good. However, Ripon Racecourse was keen to demonstrate it was achieving best value and also review whether there were any other appropriate caterers in the marketplace to ensure that the offer continues to meet guest expectations.
The decision was to go out to the marketplace, via tender, to identify a preferred bidder to operate the race and non-race day hospitality and catering offers across all locations at the Course.
Bidders were encouraged to identify other areas within the Racecourse that they felt would provide an opportunity to offer hospitality and additional services – driving new revenues.
Brief
Litmus Leisure was asked to both challenge the current catering performance in terms of food service and quality as well as the price points and concession payments. This included a review of the current caterers in the marketplace and a competitive tender.
Approach
Our proposal included the following activities:
- Pre-tender evaluation and options appraisal;
- Shortlisting of potential bidders;
- Writing the specifications, response requirements, evaluation framework and financial templates;
- Managing the tender process, correspondence with bidders and co-ordination of presentations; and
- Tender evaluation and advice on final commercial terms.
Outcomes
A new contract was drawn up after a competitive tender process where both improvements to the catering and concessions were made. The project resulted in an improved catering offer and improved financial return to the Ripon Racecourse Company.