Background
This contract was part of a group framework LEA awarded contract and the school wanted to move to a more bespoke service in line with their values. They felt they were not getting this from their current provider so appointed Litmus to tender the catering contract. In total, Litmus has successfully tendered this contract twice – once in 2013/14 and again in 2018.
Brief
For both times that the catering service was tendered, the objectives Litmus was briefed on were:
- To find a contractor who could provide high quality and variety of food choice;
- A contractor who retained the Silver Food for Life accreditation;
- To increase sales, with a particular focus on FSM, sixth form and staff;
- Achieve capital investment;
- Improve the cashless service, which is likely to include a requirement for new tills; and
- To create an additional service area to accommodate increased student numbers and possible reduction in the length of the lunch break.
Approach
Ruth Lile, the Litmus Partnership, said: “We took a lot of time to truly understand the culture and requirements of the school, so we were able to ensure that the provider found was absolutely the right fit.
“Both times the catering contract was tendered, we followed OJEU requirements. The contractors were then invited to present to both us and the school. This gave an opportunity for many questions to be asked and helped the school feel reassured they were choosing a contractor that truly understood them.”
Outcomes
Following the tender being awarded, Litmus was kept on to monitor the initial period and help iron out any teething problems. The school were so happy with Litmus they have continued to use the monthly monitoring service. As a result, there has been increased cost savings. The school also recommended Litmus to three other schools to manage the tender process on their behalf too.
