The University of Sussex Students' Union is seeking an experienced, creative, and student-focused catering and hospitality operator to manage the food service provision at Falmer Bar - a vibrant, high-footfall campus venue, from April 2026 as well as summer school catering provision and delivered hospitality.

We are inviting proposals from dynamic partners to operate the catering service from April 2026. The opportunity represents an annual net turnover of approximately £800,000 based on current projections for 2025/26 financial year, subject to commission and shared costs.

Venue Overview

Falmer Bar is a large and iconic Students’ Union venue located at the heart of the University of Sussex campus.

Operated by the University of Sussex Students’ Union Trading Ltd, Falmer Bar and its adjoining spaces accommodate around 500 people, with c.350 seated indoors. Customers may consume food throughout Falmer House, and services include both in-person takeaway and ordering via major delivery apps.

The venue offers:

• A popular bar with counter service

• Multiple adaptable event spaces

• A large heated outdoor patio, frequently used year-round

• Capacity for significant surges in footfall, particularly during Freshers’ Week and major Union events (1,000+ attendees)

Catering Facilities

Main kitchen: 27m²

Preparation area: 10m²

Walk-in fridge: 10m²

Storage: two rooms at 20m² (shared) and 12m²

Additional Catering Responsibilities

Summer School

During the summer vacation, Falmer Bar provides full catering for an international summer school of 300–500 students, usually running from mid-June to mid-August.

Delivered hospitality

The kitchen also supports delivered hospitality across campus for University departments and student groups.

Campus Context

The University of Sussex campus is situated within the South Downs National Park on the outskirts of Brighton, directly served by Falmer Railway Station. The main route from the station leads through Falmer House—the Students’ Union hub and Grade I listed building that Falmer Bar occupies. The campus is adjacent to the American Express Stadium, home of Brighton & Hove Albion FC.

The Students’ Union operates independently from the University. Its commercial arm, USSU Trading Ltd, manages campus shops and bars to generate surpluses that help fund student-led services.

The University currently has approximately 16,000 students and 2,000 staff, with 4,500 students living on campus, rising to 7,000 within the next three years.

Operator Requirements

We are seeking a partner who can deliver:

• Excellent customer experience

• Fast, efficient service

• Innovative, great-value food options

• The ability to meet the needs of a diverse, international campus community

• A food service approach that integrates healthy and sustainable principles with a menu that remains attractive, contemporary and suitable for a busy Students’ Union environment

Key Dates

• Tender submission deadline: 5 January 2026

• Anticipated contract start: Mid- April 2026

• Contract term: 3 years, with the potential for a 2 year extension

For more information and full tender pack, please email cateringtender@sussexstudent.com