LEXINGTON, Ky. — University of Kentucky students will see a 5% reduction in meal plan costs starting next academic year, marking a major shift in campus dining services under a new partnership with Compass Group.

The reduced rates represent a significant concession from pricing presented to the university's Board of Trustees in December 2025, according to an announcement Friday from the University of Kentucky. The new dining rates will be formally presented to the UK Board at its June 29-30 meetings.

UK President Eli Capilouto said the decision puts students first while maintaining quality. "We have heard clearly from our students that affordability matters," Capilouto said in a statement. "This measure allows us to lower costs while maintaining the quality and reliability our campus expects."

Compass Group, a global food service and hospitality company, is scheduled to begin dining and concessions operations on July 1, 2026, replacing current partner Aramark. The company plans to modernize dining locations, expand chef-inspired menu options and introduce new service models across campus.

The partnership also includes plans to incorporate new technology making it easier for students to purchase meals at any dining location on campus throughout the day. The broader enterprise services agreement eventually will include maintenance, grounds, custodial, in-patient transport and in-patient sitters services across UK, UK HealthCare, UK King's Daughters and UK St. Claire.

Jaya Ong, a UK sophomore, welcomed the changes. "Having more dining options at a lower cost is a huge win for students," Ong said. "It makes it easier to find food that fits our schedules and our health goals."

All current UK employees will keep their jobs, pay and benefits throughout the transition. The partnership also will expand training and career development opportunities, with Compass Group offering hands-on roles in areas such as operations, nutrition, sustainability, marketing and finance.

UK Board of Trustees Chair Britt Brockman said the partnership represents an opportunity to reduce costs while maintaining dining quality. "We have an opportunity to reduce costs while maintaining a strong dining experience and expanding opportunities for UK students beyond the classroom," Brockman said.