Just a few months into its new role as Penn’s dining-management company, Bon Appetit had had an increase in revenue, which indicates that it is definitely satiating students’ appetites. The company’s responsiveness to student preferences, especially in the restructuring of Houston Market and the improvements to the Uncommon Market under 1920 Commons, has been much appreciated and most certainly contributed to the company’s revenue increase. Similarly, the increased focus on local and organic food has been important to many students.
But let’s be honest — the bar set by Aramark, the former dining-management company, was not all that high. So far, Bon Appetit has shown responsiveness to students’ wishes, but it must continue to have that high level of receptivity. There are still improvements that need to be made, and Bon Appetit must, throughout this year, continue to evaluate students’ responses to its pricing and food options, and continue to strive to meet students’ demands.
While the problems present in Penn Dining have been alleviated over the past semester, they haven’t disappeared and still have a ways to go. Better dining options reflecting what students truly want to eat and friendlier service have been good, and noticeable, first steps, but there are still steps to be taken before students are ready to say tres bien to Bon Appetit.
