Merton to Procure New School Meals Catering Contract

Merton Council has approved a new school meals catering contract to provide nutritious and balanced meals to pupils in primary, secondary, and special schools.

The decision was made at the Cabinet meeting on Monday 20 October 2025, detailed in the School Meals Catering Contract Report. Councillors approved the procurement of a central school meals catering contract for an initial three-year term, starting 1 August 2026, with the option to extend for up to two additional years. The estimated value of the new contract is approximately £7.14m (including VAT) annually, totaling up to £36m over the full term. This is compared to the current contract's cost of approximately £6.45m (including VAT) for the 2025/26 academic year, totaling approximately £27.1m over the full term.

The Executive Director for Children Lifelong Learning and Families, in consultation with the Lead Member for Jobs, Skills & Education, will be responsible for awarding the contract and exercising any extension options.

The new contract ensures that all catering staff working in the schools served are paid the London Living Wage. This commitment aligns with the council's broader efforts to promote fair employment practices and support the local economy.

While governing bodies typically hold the responsibility for providing catering services to schools, Merton Council has chosen to maintain a central contract to support schools in delivering cost-effective services and ensuring high standards for school food. All but eight of the borough's primary schools and all its special schools currently utilize the council's contracted service.

Looking ahead, the council aims to enhance the nutritional and environmental aspects of school meals. The new contract will seek to increase the options of plant-based dishes to support reduced meat consumption, with benefits for healthy eating and environmental impact. Additionally, the council will work with the chosen contractor to create employment opportunities for local residents, collaborating with the council's Towards Employment service.