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<\/p>\nLEXINGTON, Ky. \u2014 When UK fans fill Kroger Field this football season, they can expect multiple new game day experiences highlighted by new concessions options.<\/p>\n
Through UK\u2019s Enterprise Services Partnership with preferred partner Compass Group, fans will see more affordable pricing, an enhanced selection of restaurant-quality food, and local favorites, beginning with football games at Kroger Field.<\/p>\n
\u201cGame day is about bringing people together,\u201d said\u00a0UK\u00a0President Eli Capilouto. \u201cThrough our proposed partnership with Compass Group, we are focused on making that experience more accessible, more enjoyable and more reflective of\u00a0the spirit of Kentucky.\u201d<\/p>\n
As part of a phased approach, Compass Group is scheduled to begin overseeing food, beverage and hospitality at on-campus athletics venues beginning July 1, 2026.<\/p>\n
Leading into the 2026-27 season, Compass Group will work closely with UK to transform the food and beverage experience at Kroger Field, Historic Memorial Coliseum, Kentucky Proud Park and other venues on campus. <\/p>\n
\u201cHaving grown up going to games in then-Commonwealth Stadium, I\u2019m excited about the ways the University\u2019s partnership with Compass Group will make the game day experience at Kroger Field even better,\u201d said UK Football Head Coach Will Stein. \u201cBeing able to enjoy more affordable concessions \u2014 high-quality food and drink options \u2014 is another reason for Big Blue Nation to come out to games this fall and help create the kind of atmosphere we want on game day. When the stadium is energized and engaged, it impacts our team in a positive way.\u201d<\/p>\n
While details are still being finalized regarding the overall agreement, UK is prioritizing pricing that makes core concession items more affordable for families and fans. This includes items $5 or less such as hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, nachos, 20 oz. beverages and 12 oz. Bud Light. \u00a0<\/p>\n
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Big Blue Nation can also expect an elevated food and beverage experience, with improvements in quality, taste and variety across concessions. <\/p>\n
\u201cGame day at Kentucky is about tradition, energy and bringing people together,\u201d said Vallen Emery, executive vice president for UK enterprise success, Compass Group. \u201cOur focus is on delivering great food, strong value and welcoming hospitality while introducing new offerings that reflect the flavors and traditions of Kentucky. From affordable fan favorites to local restaurant partnerships and signature menu items, we\u2019re creating more reasons for fans to make game day memories together.\u201d <\/p>\n
Enhancements will include updated menus with new signature dishes, elevated presentations and the introduction of collectible offerings such as souvenir cups to make game day memorable.<\/p>\n
The partnership will also create opportunities to bring local restaurants and flavors into Kroger Field and other UK Athletics facilities, showcasing Kentucky-based businesses and giving fans a chance to enjoy familiar favorites alongside traditional stadium offerings.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur new, affordable concessions are another positive improvement to the match-day experience BBN can enjoy when we play in Historic Memorial Coliseum,\u201d said UK Volleyball Head Coach Craig Skinner. \u201cCreating more accessible and affordable options enhances the overall fan experience and helps build an even stronger match environment. Our players feed off that energy, and this is another step toward making it one of the best atmospheres in college volleyball.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThis\u00a0is about\u00a0more than concessions,\u201d\u00a0said Eric Monday, executive vice president for finance and administration. \u201cIt\u2019s about building an experience that feels local, authentic and welcoming for every fan who comes to UK Athletics events.\u201d<\/p>\n
More details about game day enhancements will be shared ahead of the start of the 2026 football season.<\/p>\n
This partnership is also committed to lowering student meal plan prices by 5% this upcoming academic year. Read UK\u2019s update for students about that plan<\/a>.<\/p>\n UK\u2019s Enterprise Services Partnership builds on the critical work employees are doing each day to support the enterprise \u2014 UK, UK HealthCare, UK King\u2019s Daughters and UK St. Claire. All UK employees remain UK employees, with no changes to their pay or benefits. As the partnership moves forward, employees will have access to new training, career development and apprenticeship opportunities that support long-term growth. Read UK\u2019s update to employees about the Enterprise Services Partnership<\/a>.<\/p>\n