Starting later this fall, students and staff on campus can expect changes to the types and amounts of food services available at the university.
This June, the Board of Governors voted in favour of extending an existing agreement with Aramark Canada, TRU’s primary food service provider, for an additional five years. The search for a new service provider began in 2024 as the previous contract with Aramark was set to expire in 2025.
For over a decade, Aramark has acted as TRU’s primary food service provider. Alongside TRU food services, the vendor has been responsible for managing operations such as The Den, Subway, Starbucks, Tim Hortons, and more, including the vending machines found throughout campus.
According to the university, this year the TRU community can expect a new set of food service offerings, with enhancements to other existing services.
Among the new additions coming to campus will be a fully electric food truck that will offer a rotating lunch menu with a variety of meal options. Relating to vending machine options, TRU has revealed that a new Grab and Go Bento machine will replace the existing Pizza Forno machine in Old Main, while an “all-in-one” beverage machine featuring more than 60 hot and cold coffee and tea options will be available in the Nursing Building.
For students who prefer to sit and eat at traditional-style establishments, The Den and the U&M Deli will also benefit from a refresh.
At The Den, the popular campus eatery will see new breakfast options, daily lunch specials, expanded vegan and vegetarian options, and the return of the restaurant’s popular dinner buffet. Across campus in Old Main, the U&M deli is planned to feature more breakfast options, including made-to-order waffles, as well as a greater selection of grab-and-go options.
One of the aims of the new contract, the university told The Omega, was to improve food affordability across campus, pointing to a $6.99 half sandwich and soup combo at The Den as one example.
Aside from expanding available dining options on campus, under the new contract food services operations will focus on a stronger commitment to sustainability, one that is more in-line with TRU’s institutional goals. As part of that commitment, a greater emphasis will be placed on direct purchasing that prioritizes “BC-grown and hyper-local ingredients.”
The new five-year contract between TRU and Aramark is reportedly worth $8.34 million and took effect at the start of July.
Students seeking more information can visit the food services website and are encouraged to follow tru_foodservices on Instagram for details on menu additions, opening dates, service updates and more.