By Erin Leach |Staff Writer|
For years, students have been questioning the validity of the dining services branch, Sodexo.
This entity which controls the options afforded to student dining on campus, has recently made changes to one of the most visited venues in the union, The Coyote Market.
“I purchase from the Market a lot and I really appreciated the convenience aspect of it. I can grab something that I know as familiar, not fast food, and with relative ease and at cheap prices,” said student Brian Morales.
However, students have begun to notice slow changes like the size of the chip bag shrinking and the packages of donuts smaller in number and size.
“I also think that [the donuts] taste worse,” says student Marissa Duvall.
These changes, although irritating, may eventually result in some positive outcomes for students.
It provides proof to the student body that Sodexo seeks student interests, if these products aren’t working for students, Sodexo is open to remedy.
David Janosky, the general manager of dining services, explained that recent changes can be chalked up to the change in supplier for the market.
“We were looking for a vendor that could do a better job at consumer placing and management, so that what students need would be directly available to them when entering the cafe.”
What Janosky didn’t expect as a result is that the new vendor would bring new products that do not prove appealing to students.
To ensure that students are satisfied, Sodexo is working to remedy the backlash of these changes.
He states, “After we realized that the changes in baked good and chips were drastic, we began ordering the old bakery products, beginning last week, and are currently attempting to sort out the chip bags and brands.”
Sodexo said it is fighting for its students and considering some other big changes on campus that may prove positive for student satisfaction.
“It feels good to know that what we want is important to the companies supplying products, and that for them, it isn’t always about making money,” said a student.
Janosky also shared that Sodexo is looking to answer the call for healthier foods with gluten free pastas and organic materials.
“We are also looking at upgrading Starbucks, since that seems to be a big hit with students, and we are currently in negotiations with retail formats to see if we can place a more appealing chain in the union,” he said.
Sodexo is not only being receptive to students needs, they are also open to talking with students directly.
“I would be completely open to the idea of having a forum where students can voice their opinions and suggestions regarding the food on campus. They are always more then welcome to come in my office to give comments and concerns,” said Janosky.
Although Sodexo has been hit hard over the years it may be time to turn a new leaf.
We should begin to appreciate their fight for student interests and development to ensure a positive student experience.
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