Emory University Campus Dining today announced the selection of Bon Appétit Management Company as the university's new food services vendor for both the Atlanta and Oxford campuses.

Bon Appétit is a leading on-site restaurant company operating more than 500 cafés in 32 states to offer full food-service management to universities, corporations and other organizations.

"Emory is making the changes in food services in the best interest of the university community, especially our students," said Dave Furhman, senior director for Emory Campus Dining, in an announcement about the decision. "We appreciate your patience and support through the transition."

The new contract will take effect when the existing food services contract with Sodexo ends May 31. Plans are firmly in place for a smooth transition with no interruption in food service, Furhman said.

In October 2014, Emory issued a qualitative request for proposals (RFP) that specified standards for food quality, service, sustainability and other issues. A committee comprised a wide variety of campus constituents reviewed proposals and made a final recommendation to the university.

"The 10-month decision-making process was deliberate, open, and transparent. Feedback was received from a diverse representation of stakeholders – students, student leaders, student organizations, as well as staff, faculty, and senior administrators," Furhman noted.

The university committee responsible for external contracts reviewed the vendor selection decision to reinforce consistency with recommendations of the Committee on Class and Labor. The winning contractor's track record with employment policies/benefits was one of many factors considered.

A key component of the RFP and subsequent contract requires that no hourly food services staff currently employed by Sodexo will lose their jobs as a result of this transition. Hourly Sodexo staff will be offered positions by Bon Appétit, Furhman said.

Student meal plan rates will not increase as a result of the change, although rates will continue to increase modestly on a yearly basis at generally the same pace as in the recent past. Some food venue updates and changes can be expected, but many campus favorites will continue. Retail pricing across campus will remain competitive.