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Changes proposed to food outlets on campus

15 Jun 2018

Redevelopments are being proposed

Redevelopments are being proposed to a small number of University of Manchester (UMC) Ltd operated outlets to reflect changing customer demand.  

The proposed changes include:

  • EATS in University Place would close and be redeveloped into a Food Market featuring local artisan and street food vendors along the lines of Altrincham, Levenshulme and Mackie Mayor Markets.  
  • Vasaio on the ground floor of the Simon Building would close and the space will be leased, potentially to a quality, established high street brand. 
  • Catering facilities at the Tower and Little Court halls of residence at Owens Park will be reviewed when student numbers staying in the halls are confirmed in the latter part of August 2018.

Alison Shedlock, Head of Hospitality and Events said: “Our staff and students are increasingly looking for healthier options and locally sourced food and these proposals reflect these changing preferences.  More food and drink outlets will be available on campus when University Green opens in September, so we need to be in a position to offer the best possible choice to our staff, students and visitors, while at the same time ensuring that our outlets are financially sustainable for the future.  These changes will help us to achieve this.  

“EATS would provide a flexible space showcasing the best local food vendors, while the space in the Simon Building, next to the newly developed Brunswick Park, will be a prime location for a vibrant new food offering.  

“The proposed changes to Food in Residence reflect the changing requirements of our students who are looking for more choice and flexibility in the kind of accommodation they want during their time in Manchester. 

“These developments would result in a small number of staffing changes within Food on Campus and Food in Residence. It is therefore proposed to open a voluntary severance scheme for any UMC Ltd staff member who wishes to apply.” 

A consultation has begun with UNISON in relation to a reduction of a maximum of 30 employees from a total of 486 UMC Ltd employees with the aim of ensuring that UMC Ltd is an a position to be able to manage the  anticipated changes to its business with minimal disruption for its staff.  It is proposed to open the voluntary severance scheme on Monday, 2 July 2018 and close it on Friday, 17 August 2018.  Staff affected are being communicated with regularly throughout this process.

Changes to staff are given very careful and serious consideration. UMC Ltd is committed to ensuring that these processes are conducted fairly and transparently and will manage these in line with the University’s Security of Employment Policy which has been agreed with the trade unions.