ThirstLink have been working on behalf of Sheffield Hallam University for many years and have re-tendered their vending service requirements twice. When first appointed the brief was to reduce the number of suppliers to just one for all the many vending machines throughout the campus, to provide some continuity of products, tariffs, service standards, and image. A defined SLA supported by frequent quality audit checks, needed to be introduced, together with regular performance meetings, with management & sales data presented.
The University also wanted to improve the focus on the catering operation, therefore relieving them of the day-to day responsibility for the vending was important, as was the need to improve the overall returns to the University from vending sales. Certain costs needed to be removed such as no equipment purchases or Lease commitments.
Client Reference
“ThirstLink have supported Sheffield Hallam through two cycles of tender and supplier management. We have been delighted with the service that has been provided, they are always professional, with a diligent eye for detail, and with very effective follow up. I would highly recommend Andy Stephenson and his services to peers in the HE sector.” Jon Broadhurst – Head of Catering Services
Old Provision
- 3 suppliers providing 49 vending machines with some of the equipment being operated by the catering team.
Old Provision - Mixture of snack, cold and hot drinks machines in various condition and designs, most were more than five years old.
- Costa Coffee tower causing major problems to the catering team, in terms of cleaning and cost of waste milk.
- Little or no sales data to support any royalties being paid.
- No consistency of offer
- No cashless payment facilities
- Machines not being filled by suppliers and at various times.
Summary of new Vending Provision
✓ Single new supplier for all services – providing control and a single point of contact.
✓ 20 New Machines – Delivering excellent quality drinks and snacks.
✓ Significant supplier investment – Risk and investment free for the University
✓ Royalties paid on sales
✓ Cashless payment units fitted to all machines – 89% of sales via electronic payments now.
✓ Larger machines – providing a significant increase in choice of products.
✓ Defined SLA and monthly MI – Service monitored and improved.
✓ No catering team involvement in operating of the vending – no costs to the University.
✓ Sales reached £171,000 compared to £86,000 previously, despite less machines.
✓ Enhanced student experience through attractive and effective facilities
New attractive and reliable vending facilities plus 100% increase in vending sales
