Cabinet considered a report seeking approval for the procurement of the next 5 year contract for Meals on Wheels food with Apetito, our incumbent supplier.
The Council had two contracts with Apetito relating to the supply of Meals on Wheels; the contract for the supply of ready-made and cooked meals to clients expired on 31 July 2018, whilst the lease for vehicles used to deliver the food was due to end on 14 January 2019.
Historically these contracts had not run concurrently but aligning them by extending the contract for the supply of meals to terminate at the same time as the vehicle leasing arrangements, would make contract and supplier management more straightforward.
Alternative options considered and rejected by the Cabinet:
· Not to renew the contract and cease to provide Meals on Wheels for clients;
· Source the meals and vehicles from separate suppliers;
· Cook all meals fresh from scratch at the Fordbridge Community Centre
Resolved to:
1. approve the award of a new contract to Apetito for the supply of meals; and
2. approve final costs of the five year lease hire of 4 bespoke vans fitted with ‘cook on board’ oven facilities, of £126,134.
Reasons for decision
Apetito, the Council’s incumbent supplier for the past 10 years plus, are able to supply a wide range of meals to suit the client group as well as the option to cook the meals in the ovens fitted in the delivery vehicles.
A market options review concluded that taking into account resources, quality of service and cost implications, best value for money would be achieved through continuing with the current arrangement.
Cabinet agreed delegated authority to proceed with the direct award for the lease of vehicles to Apetito, at its meeting on 18 July. The food and vehicle contracts will run concurrently.