Growing Local, Supporting Communities: Sodexo’s Northeast Impact
In New England, food is more than just sustenance; it’s a way to support communities, preserve the land, and strengthen local economies. Through its Northeast Network, Sodexo is making a tangible difference by prioritizing locally grown food across schools, college campuses, and healthcare facilities throughout the region.
A Commitment to Sustainability
The Northeast Network is part of Sodexo’s Better Tomorrow initiative and was launched to make local food sourcing a priority in seven states: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. Since its inception, the program has grown into a cross-divisional effort that unites Sodexo-managed businesses, with each state developing its own hyper-focused sustainability initiatives.
The journey began in 2014 at the University of Vermont (UVM) with Vermont First, an innovative program designed to support local agriculture and stimulate job growth. Building on its success, Sodexo teams in other states followed suit with programs like The Maine Course, Mass Impact, and New York Roots. Today, the Northeast Network has grown into a comprehensive effort to increase local purchasing, reduce waste, and build stronger community connections.
Supporting Local Economies
One of the key goals of the Northeast Network is to invest in local food systems that benefit both producers and consumers. By sourcing from local farms, producers, and business owners, Sodexo supports jobs, fosters economic growth, and promotes environmental sustainability. Since the program’s unification in 2019, the Northeast Network has collectively increased local sourcing, reducing food miles and carbon emissions.
Between 2019 and 2022, these combined initiatives have invested approximately 11.2 million dollars in local food, sourcing fresh produce, dairy, proteins, and locally made products from the region. This commitment not only strengthens local economies but also ensures that the food served is fresh, nutritious, and produced sustainably.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Farmers and small-scale food producers from across New England have praised the initiative for its positive impact on their businesses.
Sodexo is an important factor in the growth of our farms. Increasing winter sales with Sodexo allowed us to provide year-round employment.
These stories underscore the vital role that local purchasing plays in keeping family farms viable and thriving.
Community Events and Initiatives
To amplify its impact, the Northeast Network also hosts and participates in community events designed to celebrate local food. Initiatives like “Eat Like a Local,” during which Sodexo spent upwards of $675,000 on local items across 114 accounts, highlight the company’s commitment to regional agriculture. Additionally, Sustainable Seafood Day and Earth Week engage communities while promoting responsible food practices.
By fostering connections between institutions and local producers, Sodexo’s Northeast Network proves that sustainable dining is not just an aspiration but a daily reality. As the program continues to evolve, it remains a powerful example of how food can bring communities together while protecting the planet.
Would you like to learn more about Sodexo’s Northeast Network or connect with one of our local food champions? Reach out today!