Provider sets June 30 shutdown, leaving Luther College dining in transition.
Sodexo, the longstanding food service provider for Luther College, will shut down its Decorah operations on June 30. The closure, revealed through an Iowa Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice, will affect 130 employees who currently support multiple dining venues on campus, including the cafeteria, Marty’s, Oneota Market, and Sunnyside Café.
While the official announcement came as a surprise for some, Luther College indicated on April 2 that it has been reviewing campus food service contracts through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The college expects to share more details soon, but many in the community are wondering what will happen to Sodexo team members and how future dining services will look.
Discover how this closure could impact local dining services and employees in Decorah
Despite the uncertainty, Sodexo has hinted that new vendors often retain existing staff. However, until Luther College confirms its final decision, many workers remain in limbo. Are you concerned about how this shift might affect the wider community? In fact, local businesses might see a ripple effect as those who once relied on Sodexo’s catering services seek alternatives. Below is a quick overview of what we know so far:
| Key Detail | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Closure Date | June 30 |
| Employees Affected | 130 |
| Notice Type | Iowa WARN |
| Possible New Vendor | Not yet announced |
| Impact on Campus Dining | Pending RFP finalization |
As you can see, most information remains tentative until the college and Sodexo finalize next steps. Nevertheless, those working at the campus dining halls or affiliated events are strongly encouraged to keep an eye on official updates.
Learn the essential steps to prepare for upcoming workforce transitions in Decorah
Navigating a sudden employment change can be challenging. First, employees should review their options for unemployment benefits or alternative roles at local businesses that may be hiring in the summer. Second, it’s wise to gather all relevant documentation—pay stubs, work contracts, and any notices related to job status—in case they are needed for state or federal assistance programs. If you or someone you know is affected, consider these steps:
- Contact Iowa Workforce Development for information on job placement services.
- Update your résumé and digital profiles to reflect your latest skills.
- Network with local groups and career centers to find openings.
Above all, the community is encouraged to stay informed by following Luther College announcements, which will clarify whether a new vendor is set to take over campus dining after Sodexo’s departure.
This story highlights the importance of advanced notice and transparent communication. While change can be unsettling, early preparation and active engagement with available resources are key to navigating this period.