Food Service Management Services

Chicago Public Schools is soliciting proposals for Food Service Management Services under Specification No. 26-1264 to operate food services across six regions: Northeast, Northwest, Central East, Central West, Southeast, and Southwest. The contract, with an estimated start date of July 1, 2027, covers approximately 178 academic days, 50 summer days, and 15 combined winter and spring break days. The selected Food Service Management Company will be responsible for the ordering and delivery of all groceries and supplies, as well as the provision of USDA-compliant breakfasts, lunches, and snacks, including specialized Kosher and Halal options. Performance is divided into 18 sub-categories across cooking, warming, and receiving sites, with a strong emphasis on adhering to USDA dietary guidelines and the district's Local School Wellness Policy. Proposers must submit a comprehensive package including a two-page executive summary, detailed cost proposals by region, and a transition plan. Evaluation is based on menu selection, food quality, management experience, financial stability, and compliance with Illinois mandates regarding local foods, animal welfare, and MBE/WBE participation. Top-scoring candidates will undergo oral presentations and taste tests. Key contractual requirements include a 5 percent bid bond, a 20 percent performance bond, and strict adherence to environmentally preferable, petroleum-free serveware standards. Performance will be monitored via a Service Level Agreement and Key Performance Indicators, with penalties for non-compliance linked to the vendor's CPI index change.