Concordia is one step closer to launching its Food Services Request for Proposals (RFP). The project will go to tender early next year.
The process in getting to this point has been highly consultative in nature. Input was sought from the Concordia community and, for the past year, the Food Advisory Working Group has been discussing what the RFP criteria should be. The working group included undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and staff.
In October, the group’s mandate to recommend criteria for the RFP was completed. This included sharing research on food-related issues, including nutrition and sustainable practices. This information was then used to develop criteria for drafting the RFP and the contract.
This RFP will be different from previous ones. Changes to legislation require that the RFP document, which formerly contained only the criteria to be met by the provider, now include full contract details.
The RFP process is expected to take 5 months. Student representatives will be part of the selection committee for the winning bid.
Concordia’s current food services contract with Chartwells runs through May 2015.