Sodexo teams up with Virtual Dining Concepts to bring AC Barbecue to Jackson State University

Sodexo and Sodexo Magic have partnered with Virtual Dining Concepts to open AC Barbecue at Jackson State University in Jackson, Miss.

Billing itself as a “BBQ lifestyle brand,” AC Barbecue was founded by comedians Anthony Anderson and Cedric The Entertainer.   

As part of the partnership, JSU students will be able to use the Sodexo Everyday app to order from the virtual concept. It will be available to students beginning this semester.

“Students want fun, convenient, and unique food offers that enhance their feeling of belonging on campus. With that in mind, our partnership with Virtual Dining Concepts has allowed us to bring AC Barbeque to the Jackson State University campus,” Raz Barnwell, vice president of digital innovation at Sodexo, said in a statement. “This community-focused brand is an ideal fit for the campus and is an elevated dining experience made possible through our innovative partnerships.”

Anthony Anderson and Cedric The Entertainer. Photo courtesy of Sodexo. 

This is not the first time Sodexo has worked with Virtual Dining Concepts to open ghost kitchens on campus. In 2022, the two partnered to bring MrBeast Burger, Mariah’s Cookies and Buddy V’s Cake Slice to select schools.

Virtual dining continues to be popular in the higher education segment. Fellow foodservice provider, Aramark, debuted its own virtual dining concept, The Drop, earlier this school year at around 20 schools.

Chartwells Higher Ed has also leaned into the trend and has opening virtual concepts at the University of Texas at Dallas, Seattle University and others.