Harrison Catering Services wins £12m university deal

Harrison Catering Services has taken its first steps into the higher education market after landing a £12m deal to cater for the central University of London.

The three-year contract is estimated to be worth £4m a year in turnover and will run from this month with an option to extend after the initial period.

Harrison will provide catering and vending services at the university's academic buildings and eight halls of residence. This will comprise breakfast, lunch and dinner services in a range of restaurants, cafés and bar-style serveries.

Catering was originally split between Aramark, Host, Scolarest and an in-house team. Managing director Geoffrey Harrison said: "The scope of this opportunity provides fantastic potential for everyone. We simply can't wait to start making a real difference for the students and the staff and to the quality of the food being served."

Last month Harrison's won a three-year, £4m deal to provide meals in 55 primary and special schools in the London borough of Bexleyheath from the start of the new school term this month.

The company now provides catering services at 380 primary and secondary schools in England.

By Chris Druce

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