Worcestershire caterer secures multi-million schools deal

WORCESTERSHIRE contract caterer and support services provider Aspens Services has won a multi-million pound order to supply three schools in the West Midlands.

The five-year deal, won through a competitive tender, will see the firm service Grace Academy sites in Solihull, Darlaston and Coventry.

The contract, which starts in September, covers catering, hospitality and vending services.

The three 11-19 business and enterprise academies have a total of 2,790 students, a figure expected to rise to up to 4,200 over the next five years.

John Roe, managing partner for Aspens Services, said: “We believe our focus on sustainability and commitment to using fresh, high-quality produce from local suppliers helped us win this significant food services contract.”

Grace Academy group facilities manager Frank Clements said Aspens was chosen by a panel that consisted of students, staff and governors.

In addition to providing foodservices from this autumn, Aspens has also been helping Grace Academy with the design layout of the catering facilities at the brand-new academy building in Darlaston, where construction is due to start later this year.

Aspens sources all perishable supplies from farmers and producers within a 50-mile radius of its catering locations, reducing food miles and boosting local economies. The company’s menus incorporate organic and Fairtrade produce as standard and chefs are encouraged to increase the range of those items available to customers.