The Chicago Park District BOD's agenda for today's meeting implies that Aramark is “in line to win a new 10-year contract as the exclusive concessions provider at Soldier Field," according to Danny Ecker of CRAIN'S CHICAGO BUSINESS. The contract, which is contingent on the BOD’s approval, will “end a 10-year run” by Delaware North Cos.’ Sportservice. Aramark "beat out three other proposals" (CHICAGOBUSINESS.com, 5/7). Aramark ran the food at Soldier Field for several years prior to the stadium’s reconstruction that was completed in '03, at which point Sportservice took over the account. The Bears’ deal marks the third NFL win for Aramark in 11 months. Last season, the concessionaire took over premium dining for the Browns at First Energy Stadium. In January, the Buccaneers selected Aramark to operate all food service and retail at Raymond James Stadium (Don Muret, Staff Writer).
I AM LEGENDS: SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL’s Muret reports Legends Hospitality has “signed a multiyear deal with the Washington Redskins to cater the 280 suites at FedExField, its biggest food account beyond Cowboys Stadium and Yankee Stadium.” Redskins and Legends officials would not disclose contract terms, but Legends Senior VP/Hospitality Mike Phillips said that the company “will invest a ‘substantial’ amount of capital to upgrade the premium side of the business.” Muret writes the “high-profile NFL account is a big victory for Legends,” whose growth has “lagged behind that of sister division Legends Sales and Marketing, which has expanded through deals to sell premium seats for the 49ers, Jaguars and Jets, among others.” Legends “replaces R&R Catering, a small local company that fed suite patrons the past four NFL seasons.” The Redskins chose Legends “after having discussions with R&R, in addition to Aramark, Centerplate and Levy Restaurants.” Sportservice officials said that the company “did not speak with the Redskins.” Phillips said that Legends “plans to develop a program with local chefs serving their signature recipes at FedExField.” Legends “officially took over the premium food operation last week,” and most of the upgrades “should be in place" by the Redskins' preseason opener on Aug. 19 (SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL, 5/6 issue).
