It’s no secret that college students love to eat. University meals haven’t always had the best reputation, but these days you can get some delicious offerings on campus. And not only are they delicious, they’re creative too! Located on the south coast of Devon, England, The University of Plymouth uses an old Royal Mail sorting office and a shipping container to cook and sell items like picnic boxes, burritos, baked goods and hot and cold coffee drinks using organic, local roasts from Owen’s Coffee. Head Chef Chris Sandham describes the special project.

What inspired you to get into foodservice?

“I have been in the industry for all my working life, 25 years. I love learning new styles of cooking, and I look forward to the new seasons of produce local to the Southwest.”

What do you love about your business?

“We provide a service for the students with local, sustainable and fresh produce at an affordable price. There are 10 different concepts to choose from, including events catering for internal and external clients.”

What’s the most interesting thing to happen to your business?

“The coolest thing so far for the business is how our hospitality and events chefs have been able to showcase their awesome skills and artisan products for a retail offer. They have taken over an old shipping container called ‘The Container Café’ and an old Royal Mail sorting office called ‘The Toast Office’, producing fresh cakes and bakes with amazing brownies and blondies, filled fresh artisan bagels, focaccia, and more. It’s a high-quality, fresh concept for the students.”

What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?

“Everyone in the business is working insanely hard to get through the pandemic, and as a team we are winning so far. Constantly adapting and introducing new ideas and offers for not only students that have stayed, but externally trying to provide what we can to help those who need it.”

What Cambro products help make your business work?

“We use the Camshelving due to the high quality and ease of cleaning and moving. A true investment product. Love it.”

Links for The University of Plymouth Catering

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