Sodexo has entered a partnership with the Indian arm of technology accelerator Zone Startups to drive its growth in the country.
As part of a one-year programme, both companies will collaborate to identify, assess, test and validate local startups, as well as train them to run pilots by integrating Sodexo’s local food offers.
Sodexo’s chief digital and innovation officer Belen Moscoso Del Prado said: “We are deploying local initiatives under a global strategy of moving closer to our consumers through strategic partnerships, focusing on leading-edge technologies and emerging business models.
“The partnership with Zone Startups will bring value to Sodexo’s business in India, and drive innovation across other markets.”
According to Zone Startups’ India managing director Ajay Ramasubramaniam, the one-year programme offers collaborative avenues for startups working in emerging food services.
In another development, Sodexo has partnered with US-based fast-casual restaurant chain Firehouse Subs to open restaurants across university locations during the 2019-2020 academic year.
Firehouse Subs offers a range of cold and hot speciality sandwiches such as Hook & Ladder Sub and Smokehouse Beef & Cheddar Brisket. It also offers various catering options such as sandwiches, dessert platters, salads and snacks.
Sodexo’s external partnerships senior director Don Wood said: “Firehouse Subs not only has a passion for delicious, high-quality food and heartfelt service, but their mission to serve the community by giving back to first responders makes this brand a perfect partner for Sodexo.”