A recent survey by Technomic found that nearly 70% of college students prefer meal plans that allow them to choose when and where to eat, reflecting a shift away from rigid dining hall schedules. Students expect more from their dining experience than ever before. Convenience, customization, and flexibility have been essential for some time now. Simultaneously, demand for grab-and-go and late-night options has surged, underscoring the need for adaptable solutions that align with students’ busy routines.
Moreover, campus dining facilities play a significant role in students' college selection process. A 2022 survey by Inside Higher Ed and College Pulse revealed that about two-thirds of students consider campus facilities, including dining options, at least somewhat influential in their decision to enroll.
Beyond flexibility, students are also seeking transparency and control. They want to know how their meal plan dollars are being spent and how to make the most of them. According to the National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS), most students now expect real-time tracking of their account balances and the freedom to spend them at various campus locations, from full-service dining halls to retail cafes and micro markets. This data suggests a clear trend: students want meal plans that fit seamlessly into their lives.
Campus dining operators are rethinking how they manage meal plans so they can meet student expectations. This means adopting technologies that enable personalized and on-demand dining experiences. To improve satisfaction and reduce confusion, campuses are moving towards tools that allow students to view their balances, understand where they can eat, and track their spending. Dining services that prioritize this level of transparency and customization are more likely to build loyalty and engagement.
FullCount Education’s flexible meal plan management tools give operators the power to meet these demands head-on. With built-in features that support customized plans, real-time tracking, and seamless transactions across campus dining and retail venues, we help campuses offer exactly what students are looking for: meal plans that adapt to them. By leveraging these capabilities, operators can turn meal plans from a rigid requirement into a valued service that enhances the student experience.
Fill out the form below to discover how FullCount Education can improve student satisfaction on your campus!
