How to Keep Up with Food & Beverage Trends Without Overspending

/
How to Keep Up with Food & Beverage Trends Without Overspending

From the menus we create to the price points we offer, we all know that industry trends influence how we do business as caterers. In some cases, they can reduce expenses — like the shift towards plant-based proteins replacing traditional cuts of meat and seafood with cost-effective alternatives like tofu, tempeh, beans, and lentils.

However, trends often have the opposite effect on an event’s budget, driving up costs for high-demand ingredients and high-touch serving styles. As caterers, our goal isn’t solely to provide an excellent dining experience. We must also support our clients’ needs by maximizing their investment and helping them to save wherever possible.

Of course, there are plenty of ways to avoid overspending while still offering the trendiest flavor profiles, presentation styles, and menu options. Here are a few strategies to get the best of both worlds.

Read More

Navigating Engagement Season as a Caterer

/
Navigating Engagement Season as a Caterer

The beginning of the year is always a busy time for businesses that serve the wedding industry. Coming off the holiday season, newly engaged couples start their search for the perfect wedding team to bring their big day to life.

In a year where we’ll see the most weddings since 1984, filling your client base may seem like an easy endeavor — and it can be if approached strategically! But it’s important to recognize that today’s couples bring a different set of values, priorities, and preferences to the table than their pre-pandemic counterparts.

As we head into an unprecedented wedding boom, here’s what couples will look for as they consider whether to book with you.

Read More

Common Money-Saving Mistakes Caterers Make

/

Every business owner should be watchful of their profit margins, but it’s particularly vital for caterers who must balance revenue with significant overhead. A team of experienced chefs and a fully-stocked kitchen don’t come cheap, so it’s wise to employ saving strategies to maximize profits as much as possible.

Yet, saving money can feel challenging in a business with such high liquidity. When the cash flow is always churning, it’s difficult to pinpoint opportunities to cut down on costs and stack savings.

Fortunately, we’ve compiled the five most common mistakes that leave caterers at a loss — and how you can cover up those gaps and grow your bottom line.

Read More

Should You Consider Purchasing New Products in the New Year?

/
Should You Consider Purchasing New Products in the New Year?

Those who work in the food and beverage industry are no strangers to spoilage, and we’re quick to discard any ingredients that are past their prime. All you have to do is take a look (or a whiff) to know whether something is still viable. Keep it or toss it — it’s a simple choice in most cases.

On the other hand, with physical and non-perishable assets, it can be trickier to determine when it’s time to trade up for a new model. Think about equipment and technology — your refrigerators, stovetops, company cars, cell phones, and computers. It’s not as simple as giving it a sniff test; instead, you have to be mindful of a product’s depreciating value and how its performance measures up to industry standards.

Read More

Easy Menu Fixes to Help Cut Down Costs

/
Easy Menu Fixes to Help Cut Down Costs

As we begin planning our approach for 2022, there are likely some exciting plans that lie ahead. To support such big goals, most caterers are considering methods to save more on overhead and cost of goods. Extra funds can support all types of growth, whether you’re considering hiring more staff, opening up a new storefront, or launching a new service line.

While certain expenses are set in stone—like insurance, rent, and taxes—others can be adjusted to scale down on costs so you can scale up in business.

Turn your attention to your menu and consider making these tweaks to cut down on costs.

Read More