Catering Services Tender for E-ACT Multi Academy Trust

E-ACT, a successful Multi Academy Trust operating 37 academies across London, Bristol, Daventry, Birmingham, Oldham, and Sheffield (93% rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted), is seeking catering service providers for three separate lots. The contract will commence on 1 August 2026 for an initial three-year term with potential two-year extension. Lot One covers 9 London and Buckinghamshire academies (£1,102,445 annual turnover), Lot Two covers 13 Bristol academies (£613,800 annual turnover), and Lot Three covers 15 North and Midlands academies (£1,674,600 annual turnover). Bidders may apply for individual or multiple lots. The procurement follows a two-stage Competitive Flexible process under the Light Touch Regime, beginning with a Procurement Specific Questionnaire (PSQ) stage followed by Invitation to Tender (ITT) for shortlisted suppliers. The successful contractor must deliver a TUPE-compliant bid with recommendations on equipment, serving points, staffing, and bespoke food concepts to maximize sales and Free School Meals uptake. Current operations use a price-per-meal model for FSM and cashless payment systems. The Trust prioritizes financial guarantees, consistently high food quality, excellent standards, strong partnership approach, and ongoing academy support. No capital investment is required. Marketing and equipment proposals must comply with DfE guidelines.