Boosting Student Satisfaction: How the University of Buckingham Transformed Campus Life with 24/7 Food & Beverage Solutions

The University of Buckingham enhanced student satisfaction by providing 24/7 access to food and beverages across its campuses, leading to happier students and additional revenue streams.

Enhancing the student experience

The University of Buckingham is a prestigious independent university, home to over 3,000 students across three campuses. Located in the picturesque town of Buckingham, the university prides itself on its intensive 2-year degrees and a significant international student body. With limited local dining options, the need for on-campus food and beverage services became crucial, especially as 300 students reside on campus.

the challenge

Student feedback revealed a need for better on-campus amenities, particularly around food and beverage options. The existing café, open only during limited hours, failed to meet students' needs and was a financial strain on the university. Students expressed a desire for more accessible food and drink options, especially outside of café hours.

With an increasing number of live-in students, the university aimed to provide 24/7 access to fresh, healthy meals and snacks to enhance student satisfaction.

A Solution To Enhance The Guest Experience

The university partnered with Selecta to revolutionise its food and beverage offering. Selecta replaced
the underperforming café at the Franciscan Building with a modern, multi-functional space featuring
two Foodies Grab & Go Smart Fridges, We Proudly Serve Starbucksä coffee machines,
microwaves, and a kitchenette. This upgrade allowed students round-the-clock access to a diverse
range of cold meals, snacks, drinks, and heat-to-eat options. The space was designed to foster a
relaxed atmosphere for socialising and study breaks, making it an appealing hub for students.


Following the success of this initial revamp, additional We Proudly Serve Starbucksä coffee
machines were rolled out across campus, including the Student Union and visitor café. Medical and
business student areas, such as the Chandos Road and ADR Buildings, also received new vending
and coffee solutions, ensuring every student had convenient, on-the-go refreshment options.

 

The result

The introduction of 24/7 food and beverage services dramatically improved student satisfaction and increased footfall across campus. Students appreciated the convenience, variety, and quality of the new offerings, leading to a more enjoyable campus experience. Moreover, the university benefited from an additional revenue stream through rebates from our solutions.

Encouraged by the success of this initiative, the University of Buckingham plans to continue expanding its food and beverage services, including installing more coffee machines in newly leased student accommodation, solidifying its reputation as a student-focused institution.

24-hour access

The fully-automated solution is accessible 24/7, giving the both the live-in and day students access to food and giving the university an advantage over its competitors.

A range of food items

Students have access to fresh food like sandwiches, salads and breakfast items at any time of the day or night, meaning they don't have to go off campus if they need a quick snack or hot beverage.

Great tasting coffee

Students and staff can enjoy a Starbucks sustainable coffee that they love without needing to leave the campus. A premium latte or hot chocolate all at the touch of a button.

Increased student satisfaction

Students have expressed their appreciation for the convenience and variety available at any hour, contributing to higher student satisfaction scores.

Revenue generation

The university benefits from a revenue share model, turning previously underutilised spaces into a profit-generating asset.


Staff Efficiency

University staff enjoy the hands-off nature of the solution, as it requires no additional effort, allowing them to focus on the education and wellbeing of the students.

Selecta were chosen to be our food and drink service provider due to the large variation of solutions that they can provide. Student Satisfaction & footfall has increased by having the 24/7 Fresh Food offering with Smart Fridges & Starbucks branded Coffee Machines.
 
The University of Buckingham are continuing to work with Selecta over the coming months to increase these student and staff services in our Buckingham campuses.
– Matthew Cross
Director of Estates
University of Buckingham
Uni_of_bucks_logo.png
Uni_of_bucks_logo.png

Conclusion

The University of Buckingham successfully transformed its on-campus food and beverage services by partnering with Selecta. The new offering not only improved student satisfaction but also enhanced the overall student experience and created a valuable source of additional income for the university. Selecta’s integrated, scalable solutions helped the University of Buckingham set itself apart from other institutions, reinforcing its reputation as a student-focused university.

Ready to elevate the student experience?

Complete the form and we will call you back to discuss your self-serve food and beverage needs.