Annual Food and Beverage Services for the RP Funding Center

The purpose of the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, FL (RPFC) issuing an RFP for F&B Services is to establish a contract with a qualified Premium Food and Beverage Sales, Concessions Services and Catering Services to provide quality management of catering services (Foodservice) to patrons attending conventions, trade shows, banquets, family entertainment events, sporting events, etc. at the RPFC. The current Agreement is with Levy Restaurant and conclude on January 31, 2027.

RPFC issued the last RFP in February 2020 shortly after the pandemic. RPFC and the City of Lakeland are seeking a competitive process for 2026 which will deliver the best services and value to RPFC.

At the conclusion of the RFP process and upon execution of an Agreement, the successful Proposer will be responsible for the comprehensive management and operation of the Foodservice at the RPFC. The successful Proposer shall be an independent contractor and shall furnish all management, supervision, labor, and any or all other services, as required by the City, consistent with generally accepted operations of a first-class public assembly facility. It is the desired goal of the City to have an executed Agreement with the successful Proposer no later October 1, 2026.

RPFC has a storied history of conventions, meetings, concerts, professional and amateur athletics and competitions, tradeshows, fundraisers and social events. RPFC promotes and maintains an active and diverse schedule of events, as well as providing first-class catering and meeting spaces available throughout the year. The successful bidders will understand the opportunities that RPFC provides to maximize its revenues and the return to the center. Today, technology and attendee preferences are changing which RPFC and its Food and Beverage Manager must embrace and evolve to set the standard for quality, service and variety in Central Florida public facilities and gathering places.

RFPC has provided a creative opportunity by allowing flexibility for an Agreement term longer than five years, expecting the potential for higher revenues and returns on capital improvements. A longer term may also provide for a stronger catering and special event presence, as well as potential collaborative arrangements with local events and caterers.

The City and RPFC view the RFP process as a civic opportunity to comprehensively explore, grow and expand RPFC business and relationships, as well as maintaining a strong return for the facilities.