Aramark
Overview
Aramark is a leading global provider of food service, facilities, and uniform services to education, healthcare, business and industry, and sports, leisure, and corrections clients. The company operates in 19 countries and employs over 200,000 people. Aramark's primary services include food and beverage, custodial, maintenance and repair, groundskeeping, energy management, capital project management, supply chain management, and clinical equipment maintenance.
History
Aramark was founded in 1936 as Davidson Brothers by Davre and Henry Davidson. The company initially provided vending services. In 1959, the company changed its name to Automatic Retailers of America (ARA). The company went public in 1960 and in 1961, ARA provided support services for the first U.S. astronaut, Alan Shepard. In 1968, ARA became a provider of food services for the Mexico City Olympic Games.
In 1974, ARA changed its name to ARA Services to reflect its growing range of services. In 1983, ARA Services was renamed Aramark. The company was taken private in 1984 and went public again in 2001. In 2006, Aramark was taken private for the second time in a $6.3 billion buyout. The company went public for the third time in 2013.
Services
Aramark's services are divided into three segments: Food and Support Services United States (FSS United States), Food and Support Services International (FSS International), and Uniform and Career Apparel.
Food and Support Services United States
The FSS United States segment provides food, refreshment, specialized dietary and support services, including facility maintenance and housekeeping, to business and industry, healthcare, and educational institutions in the United States.
Food and Support Services International
The FSS International segment offers food, refreshment, specialized dietary and support services, including facility maintenance and housekeeping, to business and industry, healthcare, and educational institutions in 19 countries outside of the United States.
Uniform and Career Apparel
The Uniform and Career Apparel segment provides rental, sale, cleaning, maintenance, and delivery of personalized uniforms and other textile items to clients in a variety of industries in the United States, Puerto Rico, Japan, and Canada. This segment also provides restroom supplies and other products.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Aramark is committed to corporate social responsibility and has implemented initiatives focused on responsible sourcing, waste minimization, energy and water conservation, and community involvement. The company's Green Thread environmental sustainability platform includes efforts to reduce food waste, source responsibly, and operate efficiently.
Controversies
Aramark has faced several controversies over the years, including allegations of poor food quality and safety, labor disputes, and ethical concerns. The company has taken steps to address these issues, including implementing new food safety protocols and engaging in dialogue with labor unions.