Aramark announces layoffs after losing key contract

O'Brien Tingling, regional executive chef at Aramark Sports & Entertainment, talks about the food during the Aramark preview event of Super Bowl LI food and merchandise shown at George R. Brown Convention Center Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017, in Houston. ( Melissa Phillip / Houston Chronicle ) less O'Brien Tingling, regional executive chef at Aramark Sports & Entertainment, talks about the food during the Aramark preview event of Super Bowl LI food and merchandise shown at George R. Brown Convention ... more Photo: Melissa Phillip, Staff Photo: Melissa Phillip, Staff Image 1 of / 44 Caption Close Aramark announces layoffs after losing key contract 1 / 44 Back to Gallery

Aramark plans to lay off up to 175 workers after losing a key contract with Houston First to operate concessions at George R. Brown Convention Center and other city-owned venues.

Affected employees likely will be offered positions with the yet-to-be named successor or at other venues where Aramark operates, officials said Monday.

"Our contract to provide catering services at George R. Brown Convention Center and the Theatre District will conclude on Sept. 30," said David Freireich, a spokesman for Aramark.

Philadelphia-based Aramark recently notified the Texas Workforce Commission of its layoff plans, which include a few positions at Miller Outdoor Theatre and Wortham Theater, by the end of September. Two layoffs at Jones Hall were effective July 30, according to the WARN, or Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification, notice.

"Typically, in these situations, the successor company will hire the employees, provided they meet the requirements of the new company," Freireich said.

"We will also help identify opportunities for employees to find positions elsewhere with our company."

Houston First, which oversees the city-owned convention center and arts venues, has not yet completed a contract with a new provider. The company has been evaluating contractors to secure the best deal, a customary practice when a contract is set to expire.

"We are still negotiations with a vendor," said Carolyn Campbell, director of corporate communications for Houston First. "They have not signed on the dotted line."

Levy Premium Food Service was selected as a front-runner at a recent Houston First board meeting.

Aramark provides food and beverage services to NRG Park and Minute Maid Park, in addition to hospitality services to health care facilities and corporate clients in the area.