Chartwells Higher Education Announces Ten-Year Partnership with the California State University System
The first-of-its-kind agreement gives all 23 California State University campuses access to Chartwells’ dining services
read moreResearch from Chartwells Higher Education Unveils Smoothies as the Top-Requested Food Among College Students
New offerings meet growing demand for healthy, convenient options stemming from the company’s Campus Dining Index
Today, Chartwells Higher Education, a recognized leader in contract foodservice management, announced it is offering expanded smoothie options with its new ‘Blends and Bowls’ retail brand. This comes in direct response to student feedback–26% of students said smoothies are their most desired cuisine, making it the number one food students want more of, according to Chartwells Higher Education’s 2025 Campus Dining Index.
This data highlights a growing trend for quick, healthy, and functional meals and snacks that fit fast-paced student lifestyles. With packed academic and social schedules, students are looking for foods that provide sustained energy and nutritional value.
“Student feedback is the cornerstone of our culinary innovation, and we’ve seen a significant shift toward students wanting practical, tasty foods that fuel their everyday academic or athletic pursuits,” said Joe Labombarda, Senior Vice President of Culinary at Chartwells Higher Education. “The popularity of smoothies is a clear signal of this trend, and with the launch of Blends and Bowls, we can provide students with the convenient, healthy options they’re craving, made with fresh ingredients that can be customized to their taste.”
The new Blends and Bowls brand will offer an array of customizable smoothies and bowl options designed to provide easy, nutrient-dense food options. Students can choose from a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, juices, yogurt, and proteins to create personalized blends that fuel their days. Signature drinks include the Protein Cold Brew Coffee, Tropical Greens, Vegan Avocado Coconut, and Tropical Sunrise. Students can also opt for acai bowls, such as the Coconut Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl, which incorporates Greek yogurt, strawberries, dragon fruit, and agave, topped with coconut and fresh berries. With high-quality, fresh produce, Blends and Bowls allows guests to prioritize health on the go.
Blends and Bowls has begun rolling out at campuses across the country, including Texas State University, where the concept originally started as a pop-up. The concept’s success led to a national rollout, and also helped Texas State University win the National Retail Account of the Year Award, presented by Chartwells.
“We’re incredibly proud to have helped pioneer Blends and Bowls, which has become a tried and true campus favorite for students,” said Dr. Bill Mattera, Associate Vice President for Student Success and Chief of Staff at Texas State University. “The success of this concept not only brings additional healthy and convenient options to campuses, but also serves as a testament to listening to and incorporating student feedback into our creative offerings.”
Chartwells Higher Education continues to expand its dining options based on student feedback and desires.
