Grand Valley State University’s Laker Food Co. has updated and expanded their dining options for the fall semester.

The Blue Connection saw significant changes, with a renovated “Anchor Market,” formerly South P.O.D., and the addition of a Mediterranean restaurant, Feta. An upgraded Allendale Starbucks and new “333 Cafe” on the Grand Rapids Health Campus also opened Monday for the start of classes.

Laker Food Co. revealed the updates in a series of Instagram posts over the last month. To those working in Anchor Market, which sells convenience store items and coffee, the changes were greatly needed.

“Things were leaking all the time and freezer doors had to be held shut,” said Hannah Walter, Head Student Manager at The Blue Connection.

Walter also explained that the store’s old quesadilla grills would often burn food. She said they anticipate much less waste with Anchor Market’s new grills.

In addition to new grills and freezers, Walter and her coworkers have new coffee makers, countertops and a fresh coat of paint. Overall, she believes these changes will make her job easier, while enhancing the experience for both employees and customers.

The store has also done away with their bakery counter, but has added some interesting new inventory. Students will now be able to purchase Bath & Body Works products from the marketplace. They will also find Orange Crush and Schweppes Ginger Ale in the soda fountains. 

The name change from South P.O.D. to Anchor Market was done to better reflect the University’s branding, according to Laker Food Co. leadership.

“As part of the scheduled improvements, it made sense to localize the name and connect it to campus,” said Laker Food Co. Marketing Director Deb Rambadt. “Anchor Market reflects GVSU pride.”

Feta, which is next to the Anchor Market inside The Blue Connection, will serve Mediterranean and Halal options. It will be open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Students will be able to purchase pita wraps and bowls using dining dollars, meal swipes or their debit and credit cards.  

Feta won’t be replacing any of the current dining options in The Blue Connection, but rather serves as an addition. In response to students concerned about Feta taking another station’s spot, Laker Food Co. clarified on Instagram that Feta will operate next to the sandwich station. 

On the City Campus, 333 Cafe will serve coffee, breakfast, sandwiches and soup 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays. It is located inside the Daniel and Pamella DeVos Center for Interprofessional Health. 

Starting September 15th, students will also be able to use Grubhub to order from Starbucks and Anchor Market, as well as Panda Express, Qdoba and the Devos Center Einstein Bros. Bagels.