Corporate Catering in The Events Industry & Why it Matters

The Evolution of Corporate Catering

The 1980s: The Birth of Corporate Catering

Corporate catering began to take shape in the 1980s, primarily focusing on office and boardroom settings. During this period, caterers were hired to provide delicious lunches and dinners for a company's key clients and board directors. The typical menu included buffets with an array of salads, cold meats, and delectable desserts. However, large-scale corporate parties were not yet a significant part of the corporate budget.

The 1990s: A New Era of Corporate Entertainment

The 1990s marked a turning point for corporate catering. As banks and IT companies realized the importance of client satisfaction for their bottom lines, they began allocating more funds for corporate events. This shift led to the formation of dedicated corporate events teams responsible for planning and executing events throughout the year.

The Role of Corporate Catering Today

Comprehensive Event Planning

In today's corporate landscape, large global organizations have specialized events teams. These teams are tasked with organizing a variety of events, including:

• Annual staff parties
• Departmental trips abroad
• Client entertainment at music or sporting events
• Team-building activities
• Glitzy champagne receptions

The Importance of Catering Services

Catering services are a cornerstone of these events. The quality of food and beverages can significantly impact the overall experience. For instance, a day at the races to impress a new client would fall flat if the catering is subpar. Corporate catering companies are essential for creating a positive image and ensuring a memorable experience.

Creativity and Customization

Creativity in catering is crucial for making each event unique and memorable. Whether it's breathtaking canapés, the finest wines and champagnes, or elaborate seafood bars, the caterer's creativity can make a significant difference. This creativity often makes a business stand out more than the business pitch itself.

Leading Corporate Catering Companies

Top UK Catering Companies

The UK boasts several top-tier corporate catering companies, many of which are based in London. These companies cater to prestigious clients and offer a wide range of services. Some of the leading names include:

• Alison Price
• "rhubarb"
• Rocket
• Urban Caprice

These companies serve high-profile clients such as Barclays, Deutsche Bank, and Channel 4. They offer comprehensive services, from cloakroom staff to goody bag packers, ensuring every detail is meticulously planned.

Interesting Statistics

The Corporate Catering Market

• The global corporate catering market was valued at approximately $15.3 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2021 to 2028 (Grand View Research).
• In the UK, the corporate catering industry is a significant contributor to the economy, with London being a major hub for high-end corporate events.

Client Satisfaction

• According to a survey by EventMB, 78% of corporate event planners believe that catering quality is a critical factor in client satisfaction.
• A study by Cvent found that 65% of attendees consider food and beverage options as a top priority when evaluating an event.

Conclusion

Corporate catering has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the 1980s. Today, it plays a vital role in the success of corporate events, contributing to client satisfaction and business growth. With the industry's continuous evolution, creativity and attention to detail remain paramount, ensuring that each event is a memorable experience.

By understanding the history and importance of corporate catering, businesses can better appreciate its value and invest in high-quality services to enhance their corporate events.