The Grubhub Approach: Are Employees Feeling Isolated?

With the arrival of Gourmet Dining as a new food service provider, Marist College has undergone major modifications to campus food services. The most notable of these changes comes from the Grubhub takeover. 

Although Grubhub was utilized before when Sodexo was the main dining company, students could still opt for an in-person ordering experience. But now, cashiers and menu boards are no longer present at most retail dining locations. 

Instead, all food items available can only be viewed and ordered on the GrubHub app or tablet kiosks on location. While the new process is more streamlined and convenient, it raises a valid concern: how does it affect the interpersonal relationships between employees and the student body?

Staff members were anonymously interviewed to understand the impacts, and the responses differed from person to person.

“I don’t necessarily think that the new setup has taken away my interactions with students. Everyone still has to check in with me to get in the dining hall regardless, so I still get to talk to everyone,” said one employee. 

The new system also hinders employees’ ability to engage with students. Previously, at the Cabaret, students could walk in, browse and purchase various drinks, snacks and frozen meal options. 

But what used to mimic a food-based convenience store has been replaced with a wall of lockers, where students type in a code or scan a personalized QR code to pick up their orders. The same exists at Marketplace, where the lockers create a literal barricade between the students and the staff.

“We have a history with the kids here and have built connections with some of them over the semesters,” said one employee. “[The new systems] have created a barrier between us and the students; it makes it very difficult and confusing for me.”  

Students also now have the option of entering the main dining hall using mobile check-in, and concerns have been brought to the surface regarding the tedious process. Long lines and waiting times are frustrating, particularly for those rushing before class. Before an employee can swipe a student’s card, there is a three-step process followed by an additional two-step process after the card is swiped before a student can enter the hall.

Furthermore, employees were asked if these recent changes have made their jobs less enjoyable. Several concurred, emphasizing the stress that comes with learning the new technology.

Positive social interactions play a crucial role in a healthy college environment. And that includes expressing appreciation and support for the food service workers who feed the campus community. In an increasingly digital world, the benefits that come with socialization are mutually beneficial for both students and the employees who serve them.