Your Pre-Catersource Homework

Q1 is an exciting time for goal-setting, strategizing, and preparing for the year ahead. As you ease into the new year, there’s no better way to kickstart inspiration than by attending the Catersource conference and tradeshow! 

Every year, Catersource sets up catering and event professionals for success just in time for the start of peak season. If you’re headed to Austin for Catersource 2024, you’re in for a treat. But if you want the experience to produce yearlong results, you need to approach it strategically to get the most from your time onsite.

Here are four things you can do right now to ensure your trip is a success.

Create your game plan

Between educational sessions, tradeshow booths, and special events, there’s so much to do and see at Catersource — you simply can’t do everything. You’re only there for three to four days, so make the most of your time by arriving with a plan.

Review the schedule for educational sessions, tradeshow floorplan, and networking events to identify the opportunities you don’t want to miss. Look for topics, speakers, and brands that catch your attention, and pencil them into your conference agenda. When you arrive onsite, you’ll know exactly where to go and who to see instead of trying to figure out how you want to spend your time each day.

Pack your business cards

Outside of premier industry education, networking is one of the most advantageous parts of attending a conference — especially one like Catersource, which attracts thousands of industry professionals. So, as you’re planning your trip, don’t forget to pack your business cards and get ready to put yourself out there! If you need to restock, place your orders ASAP so they’ll arrive in time for your travels.

Expect to wear your networking hat at all times while at the conference, but be mindful of your energy levels. If you feel your social meter draining, take a break to grab a coffee or freshen up in your hotel room. You’re better off decompressing and returning with restored stamina than burning yourself out on day one! 

Honor your out-of-office

Your out-of-office responder notifies others you’re away from the office, so they don’t expect a prompt reply while you’re at the conference. But treat your OOO as a gentle reminder that you’re attending Catersource to learn and network! If you spend the whole time working and responding to emails, you may as well have done so from your office.

It’s understandable if you can’t go a few days without checking in. Try to allot an hour in the mornings or evenings to catch up with your team or complete a few tasks. That way, you can remain focused during conference hours and maximize your time onsite. Of course, emergencies happen; if an urgent situation arises, do what you need to do!

Map out your return home

Don’t let yourself go home and dive right back into work! While your inbox might tempt you, you need at least a day or two to reflect on conference takeaways and follow up with new connections. As you’re blocking off travel dates on your calendar and setting up an auto-responder, add a buffer to avoid feeling pressured when you get home. 

You can even create a list of action tasks in advance so you know exactly what you need to do upon your return. Here are a few to-do’s to consider adding to the list:

• Review your notes and pick 2-3 ideas to implement. Then, make a plan.

• Write to your favorite speakers.

• Send follow-up emails to potential clients or partners.

• Sort through business cards and follow contacts on social media.

• Post about your experience on social media or your blog.

• Unpack your suitcase, catch up on laundry, and get some rest!

Whether you’re a first-timer to Catersource or a seasoned attendee, it’s worth dedicating time now to set yourself up for a rewarding experience that produces results for the year ahead. And if you happen to see us onsite, please stop by and say hello!

Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.

Kicking it into High Gear for 2024: Auditing Your Catering Goals

With a new year on the horizon, we’re in the season of reflection, optimization, and goal-setting. During these quieter months, it’s natural to look back on what you’ve achieved this year, explore where you fell short (and why), and consider how you’ll define success in 2024. 

Whether you aim to open a new brick-and-mortar location, introduce a new service offering in your catering business, or pursue any other growth opportunity, now is the time to get clear on your goals and create a plan to see them through to the finish line.

No matter where you are in your future-planning process, use these three steps to audit your 2024 goals and set yourself up for streamlined success.

Revisit (or determine) your KPIs

Before setting sights on the future, you must first review your progress and setbacks for the year. If you’ve been tracking data on your key performance indicators (KPIs), you’re already a few steps ahead! Sit down with the numbers, taking note of high-performing and low-performing periods. Consider any factors that contributed to your business’s ebbs and flows, like a slow month due to short-staffing or weather conditions.

If you haven’t set KPIs for your business goals, make sure to do so before heading into the new year. As you collect data, you can identify trends and adjust strategies accordingly. Consider the most important numbers in your success, like gross revenue, net profit, cost of goods sold, booking rate, employee retention rate, or social media engagement rate. Then, create a simple system for storing and analyzing data throughout the year.

Brush up on market news

Even seemingly attainable goals can feel hard to reach when the market is working against your favor, so it helps to have a finger on the pulse of the industry when planning for the future. What factors could hold you back from reaching your goals? Better yet, how can you capitalize on the state of the market to go above and beyond your goals? 

External factors like inflation, global conflict, industry regulations, technological advancements, and natural disasters can all influence your business’s performance, so do some proactive research to prepare as best as possible. Keep an eye on international business news, follow key thought leaders, and read trade journals and other industry publications. The more informed you are, the better your chance of meeting your goals.

Establish significant milestones

While setting annual goals is best practice, you must also designate key milestones to preserve motivation and hold yourself accountable. Otherwise, the year might go by in the blink of an eye with little to no progress on those big-picture goals! 

Realistic benchmarks help you stay on course, even when bogged down with admin tasks, client work, personnel management, and other essential duties. They also provide occasions to celebrate your wins, which is a great way to sustain momentum.

So, for example, if your annual goal is to enter a new market and end the year with it accounting for 25% in sales, your milestones may include:

• Create a new brand platform to expand reach

• Develop or update a marketing strategy for the new audience

• Launch a new product or service to attract different customers

• Establish one partnership with an influential brand that has a high market share

Whether your goals are a continuation of this year’s or you’re planning a major shift in your business, strategic planning is the key to success in 2024. By assessing past performance, staying up-to-date on market trends, and laying out the steps to your big-picture goals, you’ll have a roadmap guiding you all the way to victory.

Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.

Why You Need to Join a GPO in the Off-Season

In the bustling world of weddings and events, staying ahead of the curve is key to success. As an industry pro, you're no stranger to the constant whirlwind of events, clients, and intricate details that make each celebration unique.

But what about those quiet off-season months when the wedding bells aren't ringing as often, and you have a bit more breathing room? For event professionals, the “off-season” typically runs from December to April. Of course, this varies by region. In warmer climates, like Florida, off-season may fall in the summer as temperatures rise too high for comfort. But for most of the country, winter takes the cake in terms of downtime.

Though the off-season is the busiest time for planning, it’s also when you’ll attend fewer events—making it the perfect time to join a group purchasing organization (GPO). Below, we delve into why joining a GPO during the off-season is a savvy move that can transform your business in more ways than one. Keep reading to elevate your organization at a time when the pace temporarily slows down.

What is a GPO?

A GPO is a dynamic and innovative resource with immense potential for professionals in the catering industry. At its core, a GPO is a collective purchasing entity that brings together multiple businesses with similar purchasing needs, allowing them to leverage their combined buying power to secure exclusive discounts.

Essentially, it's like joining forces with fellow industry experts to achieve cost savings and streamline the procurement process. For caterers, a food-purchasing GPO serves as your strategic ally, offering a range of benefits that can transform your operations.

From cost-effective sourcing to valuable networking opportunities, a GPO empowers you to navigate the off-season challenges, emerging stronger and more prepared for the bustling seasons ahead.

Benefits of a GPO

Strategic planning

Strategic planning takes center stage during the off-season for caterers. This quieter period offers a unique opportunity for professionals to step back, assess their workflows, and set a clear course for the future. Strategic planning is not just about surviving the downtime but thriving in the busy season that inevitably follows.

Joining a GPO during this phase can be a pivotal component of your strategic plan. It positions you to make informed decisions that will impact your business positively when the peak season returns.

Cost savings

One of the most compelling reasons catering pros should consider joining a GPO during the off-season is its significant cost-saving potential. GPOs have the collective buying power to negotiate bulk discounts and favorable terms with suppliers and vendors, translating into substantial savings for members.

As a caterer looking to secure top-quality ingredients, being part of a GPO means accessing goods and services at prices you couldn't achieve on your own. These savings not only contribute to your bottom line but also enable you to allocate resources to other critical aspects of your business, making your services even more competitive.

Endless options

The world of catering and events is full of diverse needs and demands, and as professionals, we understand that no two celebrations are alike. This is where the true beauty of joining a GPO during the off-season comes to light. GPOs offer endless options that cater to a wide array of niches within the industry.

Unique decor, gourmet ingredients, state-of-the-art equipment, or even specialized sourcing services are all things that GPOs can provide. This diversity ensures you have abundant choices at your fingertips, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your specific event requirements.

More time in your schedule

There’s no denying that our work is fast-paced. And because of our busy schedules, time is an invaluable resource. Joining a GPO during the off-season can be an excellent move that injects more time into your schedule. GPOs streamline the procurement process by simplifying supplier relationships, negotiation, and purchasing tasks.

With a GPO handling the complexities of sourcing, contract management, and cost negotiations, you gain precious hours and peace of mind. These extra moments can be channeled into other essential aspects of your business, such as client consultations, marketing, or honing your creative skills.

How to join a GPO

Joining a GPO is a smart step to amplify your business's success. The process is typically straightforward and begins with research. Start by identifying a GPO that meets your needs, ideally one that works with a reputable supplier. For example, we are proud to work with US Foods to ensure our members get high-quality products in a timely manner.

Next, you simply need to request a quote to learn more about how you can leverage your membership. Once you join, you'll gain access to a network of suppliers and vendors, negotiated discounts, and a wealth of resources!

By considering the advantages of joining a GPO, you're not only safeguarding your business against the challenges of downtime but actively propelling it towards a brighter future. So, as you reflect on your business strategies this off-season, remember that a GPO can be the partner you need to thrive, innovate, and continue delivering magical moments to your clients!

Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.

How to Prep Your Staff for the Busy Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and indulgence. But for food service professionals, it's also a time of heightened demand and long hours. As the calendar inches closer to those festive months, one crucial element can make or break your business's success during this hectic period: your staff.

In the world of food service, your team is the backbone of your operation. They are the ones who transform culinary dreams into reality, ensuring that every dish is a masterpiece and every guest leaves with a smile. To navigate the whirlwind of the holiday season successfully, preparing your staff for the challenges and opportunities it presents is essential.

Below, we delve into the art of prepping your staff for the bustling holiday season. Whether you're a seasoned catering veteran or just getting started in the industry, these strategies will help you optimize your team's performance, enhance customer satisfaction, and ensure your business thrives amid the festivities.

Find your staffing sweet spot

Balancing your event staffing is a delicate art, where both understaffing and overstaffing can lead to costly problems. Insufficient staff can result in chaotic situations, while excess personnel can incur unnecessary costs and shrink your profit margins.

To strike the right balance, analyze your staff requirements for each type of event. Consider all factors, such as guest count, the complexity of courses, service style, bar options, and venue size, as they directly impact the level of staffing required. While adaptability remains essential, establishing baseline expectations will empower you to create realistic pay and time budgets for a successful holiday season.

Leave some wiggle room

When defining your staff requirements, remember to factor in flexibility to accommodate unforeseen circumstances. COVID-19 served as a reminder to anticipate last-minute absences and scheduling adjustments, particularly if an employee or their family falls ill.

As we approach this holiday season, maintaining adaptability is paramount, given the fast-paced nature of the end of the year. Similarly, client events may face delays or cancellations due to illness, weather, or lack of staff, potentially creating gaps in your workflow. While these situations can pose challenges, your ability to remain adaptable and go with the flow will see you through any hurdles that come your way.

Adjust your pricing

If you want to offer increased compensation to your team during the holiday season, aligning your pricing structure accordingly is vital. When you factor in higher labor costs, you can adequately reward your staff, ultimately boosting morale and enhancing their performance.

Worried about what clients might think? Don't avoid addressing their potential concerns; instead, educate them about the intricacies of creating their ideal event and how your company can deliver on that promise. Once they understand the level of service you bring to the table, they’ll be much more likely to move forward.

Manage stress and burnout

Managing stress and preventing burnout among your catering staff during the holiday season is not just a smart business move but a compassionate one. The relentless pace, long hours, and high-pressure environments can take a toll on your team. To foster their well-being, consider implementing strategies that promote a healthy work-life balance.

Encourage employees to take breaks, prioritize self-care, and maintain open lines of communication for any concerns. Offer support, recognition, and incentives for their hard work to boost confidence. Teamwork is key, so promote collaboration and mutual support among your team members.

By addressing stress and burnout head-on and prioritizing your team's well-being, you'll ensure a smoother holiday season and cultivate a dedicated and motivated workforce ready to tackle any challenge.

Streamline operations

Streamlining your operations is the backbone of success during the frantic holiday season in food service. To ensure your business runs like a well-oiled machine, start by fine-tuning your event planning and coordination processes. Map out detailed timelines and checklists for each event, leaving no room for confusion.

In the kitchen, optimize workflows to handle increased volume and closely monitor inventory to prevent last-minute shortages. Embrace technology that can simplify tasks like order management and communication with your team.

Honing these operational aspects will help you meet the demands of the holiday rush and provide a seamless experience for your clients, leaving them with lasting memories of impeccable service.

Remember: The holiday season isn't just about meeting client expectations; it's about exceeding them. As you gear up for the joyful and hectic months ahead, keep in mind that your team's dedication and preparedness will be the key to creating unforgettable moments for your clients and ensuring the continued success of your food service business.

So embrace the holiday spirit, empower your staff, and embark on a season filled with memorable events that leave a lasting mark on your clients and your bottom line!

Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.

Case Study: Queen City Catering

Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, Queen City Catering is a renowned catering company that serves all types of celebrations with its detail-oriented approach to culinary excellence. Our friend, Andrew Matroni, founded Queen City Catering in 2010 and has since grown it into a well-known brand with 40+ full-time employees and a custom-built catering headquarters that covers 10,000 sq. ft. (just about a quarter acre).

Upon meeting, it was clear that Andrew had big goals set for QC Catering, and he had the motivation and creativity to achieve them. We became fast friends, but Andrew still had his hesitations about becoming a member of SB Value. He didn’t have any experience with a group purchasing organization (GPO), and he understandably wanted to ask us questions. 

Andrew is analytical by nature, asking all of the right questions as we talked about the program and how it could support QC Catering’s goals. Before long, he started to see how our model would save him money. It stands to reason that a large-scale organization with 28,000 clients and $7 billion in leverage could get better prices than any individual business. It makes sense.

But what really hit home for Andrew was the direct connection and support from US Foods. Price savings are essential for increasing your bottom line, but if you truly want to achieve sustainable growth, you also have to optimize the processes in the kitchen. And while Andrew is brilliant at what he does, he recognized that while he sees one kitchen every day, US Foods gets to see thousands of kitchens operating in different ways.

Six years later, Andrew is one of our best clients and continues to get the most out of his membership with SB Value. It’s not because he places more orders but because he asks a lot of open-ended questions. He’s always looking to learn better ways to run his kitchen. He’s constantly asking what we could do better and how US Foods can help him. 

That pursuit of “better” is why he maximizes the value of his membership, and it’s why his catering business continues to thrive. We didn’t make him a better caterer — he was already a pro by the time we met him. However, we did provide him with the resources he needed to become more efficient and profitable as a company.

That’s really the crux of a GPO’s value. Saving on food cuts down expenses, which attracts catering professionals who want to pad their profit margins. And if that’s all you’re looking for, we can definitely help you with that.

But if you want to transform how you do business on top of saving on each order, that’s where the magic happens — and we’re here to be your partners on this growth journey. Start by getting a quote today.