Compass Group to Run Café Metso at Main Library Despite 7,000-Signature Petition

Tampere will not reverse the procurement decision that awards the Metso main library's café contract to Compass Group Finland, saying petitions and public pressure cannot change the outcome if the procurement was conducted correctly. The decision stands.

The café concession was run a second time, and Compass Group was selected after a quality tie with the current operator, Vinedu, was broken by price.

Niina Salmenkangas, director of library services, praised Vinedu for building a warm, much-loved meeting place for visitors and staff. She said the contract had to be put out to tender once option years and procurement thresholds were exceeded.

Residents gathered more than 7,000 signatures to keep Café Metso, but officials said procurement rules require fair treatment of all bidders.

According to Aamulehti, a reader opinion by Raisa Taurinka argues that Tampere’s broader planned procurement package for 2026 – around €642 million, described as almost half of the city budget – means procurement choices also function as economic policy for local small and medium-sized enterprises. Aamulehti adds that Taurinka points out the Metso café tender’s weighting, with price accounting for 60% and quality 40%, and that the city held a market dialogue with two participants and three final bidders.

Aamulehti also notes that Taurinka lists roles with Pirkanmaa Entrepreneurs and Etelä-Tampereen Yrittäjät.

Tampere will monitor the new provider's performance, including service quality, atmosphere, menu variety, special-diet options, sustainability and pricing. Café Metso will continue operating until the decision is legally binding and the new contract begins. The local paper Tamperelainen reported the outcome.