by Tom Chambers
Staff Writer
For students bogged down by finals, The Spot will be delivering pizza and Red Bull on campus during finals week.
“The idea has a good buzz around it. I think students are excited,” said Keith Friend, director of dining services.
There will be two specials during finals week. The first is a free two-liter bottle of soda with a delivery order. The second is a pizza at half price. Both specials require coupons. On campus residents can pick them up from their resident assistant. Commuters can pick up them up in their students mailboxes.
By design this is the first advertising blitz that The Spot has done this year. Friend wanted to hold off until he felt the staff was completely ready to handle the promotion professionally.
Last year Davenport accommodated students during finals week by expanding its hours, offering coffee and snacks. The idea was not profitable and Aramark lost money.
This year a new approach is being tested. The popular drink will be delivered by electric cart to campus residents. Red Bull is a new energy drink from Austria. It is said to “sharpen body and mind.” A slogan The Spot is counting on to up sales in weary college students studying for finals.
Aramark received a good deal from Red Bull because they bought in bulk. The Spot already sells Red Bull and left over product will just be sold as it already is. The cost is $2 per can and has a varied effect on students.
“The first time I tried Red Bull it was really strong. I felt a big rush of adrenaline,” said junior Nate Michael.
The Spot has its own pizza line to take orders, helping efficiency. The extension is 4663, an acronym for “good.” The prices for a large Leo’s pizza are $13.99 for a specialty, $10.99 for a pepperoni and veggie, and $9.99 for a cheese. Delivery will be available Monday-Thursday, 5-8:30 p.m.and Friday 5-8 p.m.
Friend insists this is the first of many promotions he will be running for the students. Internal promotions have already run this year through school resident assistants and specific departments, ordering pizza and other foods.
Friend said he tries to change things up to keep students happy with the service and atmosphere. He acknowledges that food services get a lot of attention on campus, but welcomes the press.
