Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek approval, in accordance with Contract Procedure Rule 5.3.2, a contract be awarded to Kitchequip for the purchase and installation (where appropriate) of 17 items of replacement Catering Equipment for the School Meals service.

Decision

The Head of Commercial Services hereby approves:

(i)        that, in accordance with Contract Procedure Rule Schedule 5.3.2, a contract be awarded to Kitchequip for the purchase and installation (where appropriate) of 17 items of new and replacement Catering Equipment for the School Meals service; and

(ii)       that the Procurement Team be authorised to make the necessary arrangements for the issue of the relevant contract documentation

Alternative options considered

Do Nothing: This option was considered and rejected due to the age and condition of some of the current catering equipment in place at schools across the Borough and forecast increased demand from September 2026 onwards due to increasing numbers of pupils eligible for a Free School Meal.  This option would not provide the productivity and reliability levels required for the effective delivery of the service provided by the School Meals Service.