The University of Kent has announced a new partnership with leading campus caterer Chartwells Universities, who will begin delivering catering services across the Canterbury campus from 1 June 2025.
Following a competitive tender process, this new collaboration promises exciting changes, with investment lined up to modernise dining facilities and expand food options for students, staff, and visitors alike.
This partnership marks a key step in the University’s ongoing commitment to enriching the student experience. With plans to introduce more diverse menus and a greater variety of catering outlets, the focus is firmly on quality, choice, and accessibility.
Beyond food variety, the new agreement is rooted in shared values—especially around supporting Kent’s Right to Food initiative. Chartwells will ensure that healthy, affordable meals are widely accessible across campus while also investing in social value initiatives that benefit the local community.
Melissa Browne, Interim Director of Commercial Services and Estates at the University of Kent, shared her enthusiasm:
“We’re excited to announce this partnership with Chartwells Universities, which will help us in our commitment to providing quality, healthy and affordable food on our campus. They will bring much-needed investment, which will help us to deliver a fantastic catering experience for our community.”
Rachel Carter, Managing Director at Chartwells Universities, echoed this sentiment:
“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.”
As the countdown to June begins, both Chartwells and the University of Kent are preparing for a vibrant new chapter in campus dining—one that puts student wellbeing, sustainability, and community impact at the heart of every meal.