Lauren Matheu - Region 11

The Sodexo Dietetic Internship
Calling all future RDNs! My name is Lauren Matheu and I am a Sodexo dietetic intern! The Sodexo Dietetic Internship has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career so far. Not only has it deepened my understanding of nutrition, but it’s also allowed me to explore the diverse opportunities within the field of dietetics. One of the highlights of this internship has been the foodservice rotation, where I had the chance to work on a dynamic retail marketing project. This project didn’t just teach me about foodservice operations; it gave me the chance to combine my skills in nutrition with creativity and data-driven strategies.
 
A Unique Challenge
During my foodservice rotation, I worked on a project aimed at increasing customer engagement and boosting purchases through a café app. The app is a key tool for customers to view menus, place orders, and interact with their dining experience. However, despite its functionality, customer engagement and purchase rate were lower than expected.
 
The task was clear: find a way to make the app more engaging and increase the number of customers using it to make purchases. This was a challenge I was excited to take on, as it provided an opportunity to blend marketing, technology, and customer behavior into a strategic plan.
 
The Strategy: Personalization and User Experience
To tackle this challenge, I worked closely with the retail team to analyze user data and identify key areas for improvement. We realized not many people knew the café had an app to order ahead. We implemented a targeted promotion/raffle enticing individuals to download and make a purchase through the app. I created flyers with a QR code that directed the user to the app in the App Store. If they were able to download and make a purchase, they earned a ticket and were entered into the raffle. The grand prize was a free Starbucks coffee of their choice!
 
The Results: A Success
The impact of these changes was phenomenal. Over the course of 2 weeks, we saw a 150% increase in customer engagement! More users began to regularly interact with the app, taking advantage of personalized offers and enjoying a more streamlined user experience. The app became a huge part of the dining routine, and they were more likely to return. Even more impressive was the 120% increase in product purchases. With a more engaged customer base and an easier purchasing process, customers began making more frequent and larger orders. The results not only exceed expectations but also demonstrated the power of combining user-centered design with effective marketing.
 
Reflecting on the Experience
Looking back, this project was one of the most valuable learning experiences of my internship. It reinforced the idea that dietitians can have impact beyond just clinical nutrition. By understanding customer behavior and leveraging technology, we can influence food choices in meaningful ways. The Sodexo Dietetic Internship gave me the platform to explore nutrition and marketing, and I am excited to carry these skills forward in my career. This internship has been a great experience so far, and I am grateful for the chance to grow professionally and personally. If you are considering a dietetic internship, I highly recommend the Sodexo program. It is a unique opportunity to work in a diverse range of settings, push your boundaries, and make a real impact!

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