Sodexo Plans 100 Campus Food Hive Stores

Sodexo plans to open nearly 100 'Food Hive' convenience stores on college campuses by 2026, starting with around 30 locations in the 2024-2025 academic year. These markets focus on community engagement by featuring products from local, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses while also catering to Gen Z's demand for convenience and healthy options. Research indicates that 57% of Gen Z students prioritize variety in their shopping experiences, while 47% seek out health-conscious choices. The Food Hive concept includes cashless payment systems and aims to enhance campus life by providing a frictionless checkout experience. Some of the universities set to host these markets include Morehouse College, University of Illinois Chicago, and Northern Arizona University. This initiative reflects a broader trend in campus retail, as schools become attractive locations for tech-driven convenience stores.