Atrium Boosts Dining Sustainability with Seamless OZZI Integration

Atrium Enhances Dining Sustainability with Seamless OZZI Integration

In a bid to minimize or eliminate single-use containers from campus dining operations, Atrium has forged an alliance with the OZZI reusable container program. This strategic integration streamlines processes for both students and dining services, enhancing the user experience and promoting environmental sustainability.

A Closer Look at the Integrated Process

For years, Atrium clients have utilized OZZI's container solution; however, the two systems operated independently. Manual or dedicated app-based processes were employed for container check-out, check-in, lost container payments, and other administrative tasks.

"The game-changer is managing the program directly through the Atrium system," remarks David McQuillin, Vice President of Sales and Atrium Co-Founder. "Students can now return containers to designated kiosks effortlessly, without the need for app interaction or cashier assistance."

At the core of the container solution is an activity account based on an integer token system. When a student retrieves a container, their account reflects an increment of one. Upon returning the container, the account reverts to zero, effectively debiting and crediting their account within the Atrium system. Token or dollar value mechanisms can be utilized.

Butler University will be the inaugural client to implement the integrated solution, with the implementation process currently underway.

Student Experience with Reusable Containers

Students acquire tokens or designate a dollar amount for participation in the container program. When selecting meals or picking up items in dining halls, the token or dollar amount is deducted from their Atrium account.

To return a container, students tap or swipe their ID cards at the OZZI kiosk and insert the container into the designated slot. The token or dollar amount is then credited back to their Atrium account.

Atrium's platform encompasses three account types: meal accounts, declining balance accounts, and activity accounts. The latter is specifically designed for activities such as event management and item tracking.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

While the environmental advantages of reusable containers are well-established, the economic implications are equally compelling. "We all recognize the positive environmental impact, but when you delve into the financial aspect, the return on investment is undeniable," observes McQuillin. "It prompted me to exclaim, 'This should be a standard practice for everyone.'"

For institutions interested in transitioning away from single-use containers, Atrium supports a range of solutions. In addition to OZZI, the company collaborates with container solution providers Usefull and Reusables. "This collaborative approach is integral to our success," says McQuillin. "We provide a comprehensive array of options to meet diverse campus needs."

Related Success Stories

• Towson University inaugurates an unmanned 24x7 convenience store powered by Atrium.
• Cal Poly pilots reusable dining containers to significantly reduce waste.
• Vanderbilt University introduces reusable to-go containers across campus dining facilities.
• University of Houston implements a new transaction system leveraging Atrium and Agilysys.