If Sodexo is not rehired as Wright State's food provider in the upcoming bid for contracts, jobs could be lost or maintained at the Union Market, The Hangar, and The C-Store, all depending on the discretion of the new provider.
Sodexo currently employs all of those working for Dinning Services on Wright State campus. If a new provider were to take over, they would determine which employees would remain and which would be cut. Though some could lose work, many of the employees would probably be rehired, according to Executive Business Manager Art Neff.
"There most likely will be a lot of people rehired, they want experienced people," said Neff. "But I can't guarantee that everyone will be rehired, it's up to the new partner."
If Sodexo were rehired, the employment situation would remain similar to what it is currently. But changes in employment could still be made depending on what the company decides, according to Neff.
"Even Sodexo may decide that they don't want everyone back," said Neff. "But it's completely up to them."
Neff also said that none of the companies in contention have stated what they would do in regards to cutting or keeping employment, which is normal for this phase of the process.
"We outline what we want, and they will come forward with a proposal" said Neff. "They have not given me any proposals for staffing yet, but it will come at some point in time toward the end of negotiations."
Though food providers ARAMARK, Chartwells, AVI Foodsystems and Ovations will all be placing bids, Sodexo will have a firm advantage in the race, according to Ness.
"They already know what works and doesn't work, so they do have an advantage," said Neff. "The incumbent always has the advantage, and Sodexo will have the advantage."
The food provider will be selected in March or April, and will begin services in June.
