About UW Food Services

University of Waterloo Food Services (UWFS) provides a range of products and services to students, faculty, staff, and the broader community through the operation of over 25 eateries. The department includes residence cafeterias, cash operations outlets, franchises, Catering Services, Conference Services and vending machines.

The department provides meal plans, food-related wellness and nutritional programs, in addition to a range of initiatives supporting student life, diversity and culture.

UW Food Services Chefs

Group picture of chefs at the Winter 2023 Cooking Show. Meet the Chefs!

UWFS is a self-operated ancillary service; not a common format for todays’ institutions. As a key stakeholder in student services, UWFS strives to create and cultivate a comprehensive service that promotes a healthy, sustainable university environment.

Mission

To believe in and deliver our core values of Connection, Convenience, Choice in every action and decision we make.

Core Values: Customers, Convenience, Choice

Connection: Our most important asset is the personal relationships with our community. We truly believe in building relationships with each of our customers based on mutual trust and offering products and services you want.

Convenience: To us, it's critical to meet customers' needs as conveniently as possible. We strive to have services available when you need, where you need them.

Choice: We're all about options. We're committed to meeting the needs of our customers today and changing for tomorrow.

Strategic Priorities

Customer Experience: Strengthen our understanding of core customer demographics and foster relationships with students, faculty, and staff to deliver exceptional service, support a strong community, and enrich the student experience.

Product Management: Deliver high-quality menu items with local and sustainable ingredients where possible. Assess and adapt offerings to meet customer needs, embrace food trends, and continuously improve service efficiency.

Employee Culture: Foster a positive working culture aligned with University of Waterloo values by supporting an engaged, well-resourced workforce and addressing challenges to organizational success and growth.

Supplier Relationships: Enhance and pursue valuable partnerships, apply consistent and transparent decision criteria in purchasing, continuously improve procurement practices, and secure the best value from suppliers.

Fiscal Responsibility: Maintain fiscal responsibility by meeting budget targets, managing debt, and improving systematic planning to support growth and business needs.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!