From the summer we will be making some changes to our catering offer on the Canterbury campus through a new partnership with Chartwells Universities, a catering firm who work with lots of other universities and colleges.  

We wanted to work with someone who could bring investment and modernise our outlets, helping us broaden menu choices and give you more great options to eat on campus. We’ve been working to give you more healthy and affordable options which will continue through the partnership, with Chartwells Universities also bringing links with high street brands.   

The contract will start on 1 June 2025. Refurbishment of outlets and menu changes will take place over the coming months, with Chartwells Universities engaging with students and staff throughout. This doesn’t affect outlets run by Kent Students’ Union, which include Woody’s, the Library Cafe and the Venue.  

All current catering staff – who have been committed to delivering the highest quality service – will become Chartwells Universities employees with protected salaries and conditions, meaning we will continue to see familiar faces around campus.   

Melissa Browne, Interim Director of Commercial Services and Estates explains: ‘We’re excited to announce this partnership with Chartwells Universities, which will further support our commitment to providing quality, healthy and affordable food on our campus. The partnership will bring much needed investment to our catering service, which will help us to deliver a fantastic catering experience on campus.’  

Rachel Carter, Managing Director of Chartwells Universities, said: ‘We are very excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively with the University of Kent to enhance the experience of students on campus. This is a symbiotic relationship, with shared values and beliefs around providing affordable, quality, nutritious food for students through the Right to Food initiative. Creating a compellingly positive student experience has never been more important. Under this partnership, we are committed to delivering great value to the University of Kent, its students and staff while embracing innovation and driving forward a dynamic food and drink offer that brings people together.’