Catering in the Public Sector: Maintaining Standards

The deep cuts to UK public spending announced in last month’s Budget could lead to more outsourcing business for private contract catering firms, according to foodservice data provider Horizons.

“The steep reduction in public spending, down by 25% up to 2015 will mean that there could be more contracts up for grabs in the contract catering sector, although margins will remain extremely tight,” said Horizon’s Peter Backman.

However, some transfer of contracts to the private sector will be offset by inevitable public sector job losses and therefore fewer overall employees to feed.

“Less investment in schools, hospitals and government facilities means fewer opportunities for contractors and could mean existing contracts come up for renegotiation more quickly,” added Backman.

The 25% reduction in public spending up to 2015 amounts to annual cuts of £84 billion, compared to the £52 billion per year planned by Labour.

Institute members pay a reduced rate to attend Catering in the Public Sector: Maintaining Standards

This one-day conference on 17 November at the Barbican, London, will explore how to maintain standards in the era of efficiency savings introduced by the new coalition government.

• Where can efficiencies be achieved in public sector catering?
• How can you ensure high quality, nutritious food in these lean times?

Click here for Booking and for more information

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