NBA superstar Earvin "Magic" Johnson, who is the chairman of dining service provider SodexoMAGIC, has just recently teamed up with Grambling State University, an HBCU in Louisiana, for a partnership that will upgrade on-campus dining. The $6.7 million renovation project will focus on the specific dining needs of the students.
"This agreement is a great example of what is possible when universities put our students first," Rick Gallot, president of Grambling State University, said in a statement. "We are fortunate to collaborate with a partner, like SodexoMAGIC who understands the holistic needs of our students."
The $6.7 million funds will be used to renovate campus dining facilities, provide 24-hour dining, and establish new major-brand fast-food restaurants such as Chick-fil-a, Firehouse Subs, and Pizza Hut, and Starbucks in the campus.
New menus created by Chef G. Garvin, a well-known TV host, author, and NAACP Image Award winner, will also be offered. Students will be able to order takeout and made-to-order foods via a mobile app. There will be specialized food options for those who have allergies and vegetarians as well.
The project is based on a 12-month research effort conducted by the university. The research found that about 70% of respondents are interested in new major brand food options and wanted to increase food variety. More than half of the respondents also suggested increasing dining service hours and stated that they are participating in a specialized diet. The university chose SodexoMAGIC out of several dining service providers who proposed to provide their needs.
"We are proud to partner with the Grambling State community and excited about investing in the students," Johnson said in a statement. "My team is committed to providing excellent service that the Grambling students, staff, and community deserve so they can continue leading efforts to change the world in sports, technology, and in business."
The 5-year partnership between SodexoMAGIC and the university is reportedly expected to generate a $51 million return on investment. It includes an option to renew the contract after 5 years.
About SodexoMAGIC
Launched in 2006, SodexoMAGIC is a joint venture between Magic Food Provisions, owned by NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Sodexo, one of the nation's largest food service and facilities management companies. SodexoMAGIC aims to empower communities as they provide innovation in food and facilities management to hospitals, schools, universities, etc.
For more information about SodexoMAGIC, visit http://sodexomagic.com