Around 9,500 meals will be served to schoolchildren across 34 primary schools and three special needs schools in Merton, totalling 1.8m meals every year.
The London Borough says the new contract will be awarded in spring 2026 and will continue to ensure that pupils enjoy nutritious meals that support their wellbeing and ability to learn. All catering staff employed under the contract will be paid the London Living Wage or higher.
Merton Council says the new caterer will place a strong focus on sustainability, with locally sourced ingredients to reduce food miles and more environmentally responsible packaging and waste management.
Councillor Sally Kenny, cabinet member for education and lifelong learning, said: “Healthy, nutritious food plays a vital role in helping children learn, grow and achieve their full potential.
“This new contract award will ensure that thousands of Merton’s pupils enjoy high-quality meals every day, while also making real progress on sustainability and fair pay. I’m proud that we’re continuing to invest in our children and young people, and in the dedicated staff who support them.”