Sodexo and the University of Cincinnati have unveiled an exciting collaboration: the 513 Culinary Group. This groundbreaking venture promises a dining experience like no other, prioritizing innovation, creativity, and inclusivity. Effective May 1, 2024, this partnership will breathe new life into dining facilities across UC’s main campus, as well as its Blue Ash and Clermont regional campuses.
Brett Ladd, CEO Campus at Sodexo USA, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Our partnership with the University of Cincinnati blends our expertise, creativity, and passion for innovation with the city of Cincinnati’s vibrant culture and traditions.” The 513 Culinary Group isn’t just about campus dining; it’s about community engagement and supporting local businesses.
Central to this partnership is a commitment to student and employee engagement, fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging. The revamped menus will cater to diverse dietary preferences, offering more plant-based options and ensuring safe dining for students with allergies. Additionally, plans are underway to renovate and rebrand an existing facility as Bearcats Social, a trendy space where students can gather and connect.
Innovation lies at the heart of this collaboration, with UC serving as a hub for testing new dining technologies to enhance the consumer experience. The introduction of Queen City Hospitality, a campus catering brand under the 513 Culinary Group umbrella, will provide enhanced catering options for both on-campus community members and events.
With a focus on freshness, local sourcing, and global flavors, the 513 Culinary Group aims to elevate the culinary experience at the University of Cincinnati while fostering a sense of belonging and community.
UC serves nearly 51,000 students – the highest enrollment ever thanks to unrivaled momentum, including the university’s National Science Foundation standing among the country’s top 31 public research universities as well as placement among the world’s top 100 most-innovative universities by Reuters. Moreover, UC is the world-class leader in experience-based learning or “hire education.” U.S. News ranks UC’s co-op program Top 5 nationally, and students earn a collective $76.5 million annually via co-op work placements.
