Contractors are expected to assume a bigger share of college foodservice in the coming year, taking the lion's share of growth as well. Growth in the size of residence hall board plans will keep pace with enrollment, but the focus will continue to shift more toward on-campus options such as cafes and kiosks. Schools with large populations of international students could see a dip in spending as financial crises in their native countries shrink disposable income, says Mary Niven, foodservice director at the University of California-Los Angeles. The many players in the business of managing conference centers is raising the competitive flame. They demand meetings to remember.
Time is money to clients who request three-course menus served in less than one hour.
Companies want fun, like theme dinners and foods such as burgers and hot dogs geared to a local sports events.