UK Fans Will See Game Day Upgrades Through Enterprise Services Partnership
LEXINGTON, Ky. — When UK fans fill Kroger Field this football season, they can expect multiple new game day experiences highlighted by new concessions options.
Through UK’s 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.
“Game day is about bringing people together,” said UK President Eli Capilouto. “Through our proposed partnership with Compass Group, we are focused on making that experience more accessible, more enjoyable and more reflective of the spirit of Kentucky.”
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.
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.
“Having grown up going to games in then-Commonwealth Stadium, I’m excited about the ways the University’s partnership with Compass Group will make the game day experience at Kroger Field even better,” said UK Football Head Coach Will Stein. “Being able to enjoy more affordable concessions — high-quality food and drink options — 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.”
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.
Big Blue Nation can also expect an elevated food and beverage experience, with improvements in quality, taste and variety across concessions.
“Game day at Kentucky is about tradition, energy and bringing people together,” said Vallen Emery, executive vice president for UK enterprise success, Compass Group. “Our 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’re creating more reasons for fans to make game day memories together.”
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.
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.
“Our new, affordable concessions are another positive improvement to the match-day experience BBN can enjoy when we play in Historic Memorial Coliseum,” said UK Volleyball Head Coach Craig Skinner. “Creating 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.”
“This is about more than concessions,” said Eric Monday, executive vice president for finance and administration. “It’s about building an experience that feels local, authentic and welcoming for every fan who comes to UK Athletics events.”
More details about game day enhancements will be shared ahead of the start of the 2026 football season.
This partnership is also committed to lowering student meal plan prices by 5% this upcoming academic year. Read UK’s update for students about that plan.
UK’s Enterprise Services Partnership builds on the critical work employees are doing each day to support the enterprise — UK, UK HealthCare, UK King’s 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’s update to employees about the Enterprise Services Partnership.
Learn more about the partnership online at https://evpfa.uky.edu/enterprise-services-partnership.
