Operations Management of Canteen Among Higher Education Institutions in Rinconada

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the extent of implementation of operations management practices of canteen among Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Rinconada. Specifically, it sought answers to the following questions: 1. What is the business profile of canteen owners in terms of years of operation, working capital, number of workers, days of operation, average daily customers served, and facilities and equipment? 2. What is the extent of implementation of key operational practices along food safety and sanitation, customer service relations, procurement and inventory management, financial management, facilities and equipment, and compliance with government rules and regulations? 3. Is there a significant relationship between the extent of implementation of canteen business operations management practices when grouped according to profile? 4. What operations management guide can be formulated based on the findings of the study? A descriptive research method was employed, using survey questionnaires and interviews with fifteen (15) canteen owners. Statistical tools such as percentage, weighted mean, and chi-square test were utilized. The findings revealed that all six (6) key operational functions are being practiced to some extent, the areas of financial management and food safety and sanitation are the most consistently and effectively applied. On the other hand, the procurement, customer service relations, facilities and equipment, and government rules and regulations indicate areas where investment, or oversight further enhance overall operational efficiency. These results the importance of a balanced focus across all management areas to ensure the continued success and compliance of canteen operations. Based on the findings of this study, “Efficient Canteen Management: An Operations Guide for School Canteen” was developed. This serves not only as a reference but also as a strategic tool to help canteen maintain its consistency in service quality regardless of their profile or available resources.