London 2012: The Ultimate Test for Outside Catering in the Capital

May 20
12:27

2024

Sara Allom

Sara Allom

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The 2012 London Olympics represented a monumental challenge for corporate hospitality and catering services. As the world's eyes turned to London, the demand for exceptional outside catering reached unprecedented levels. This article delves into the intricacies of catering for such a colossal event, highlighting the efforts and expertise required to meet the high expectations of global dignitaries, corporate giants, and sports enthusiasts.

The Magnitude of London 2012

The London 2012 Olympics was not just another sporting event; it was the largest the UK had ever hosted. With over 10,500 athletes from 204 countries competing in 26 sports,London 2012: The Ultimate Test for Outside Catering in the Capital Articles the logistical demands were immense (Olympic.org). The event attracted millions of spectators and involved significant investments from global businesses, making corporate hospitality a critical component.

Corporate Hospitality: A High-Stakes Game

Corporate hospitality during the Olympics was not limited to ticket distribution for high-profile events like the 100m final or beach volleyball. It encompassed a wide range of services, including pre-event canapés, champagne receptions, post-event gatherings with athletes, and elaborate gala dinners. The stakes were high, with companies vying to impress their most important clients and partners.

The Role of Outside Catering

Outside catering was pivotal in delivering the Olympic hospitality experience. Catering companies had to be innovative, offering creative menus and impeccable service. Many of these companies were booked well in advance, with their Olympic menus and uniforms meticulously planned.

The Expertise Behind the Scenes

Leading catering companies like Create, Alison Price, and "rhubarb" brought their extensive experience to the table. These companies employed full-time teams of menu designers, front-of-house managers, sommeliers, cocktail bartenders, canapé chefs, and interior design managers. Their expertise was crucial in ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for guests.

Notable Catering Companies

  • Create: Known for their bespoke event planning and high-profile client list.
  • Alison Price: Renowned for their creative menus and exceptional service.
  • "rhubarb": With Olympic consultants who had experience from previous games and Rugby World Cups.
  • Urban Caprice: Leveraged their restaurant experience to excel in outside catering.

The Scale of the Challenge

Despite their experience, catering companies faced an unprecedented challenge with London 2012. The scale of the event required meticulous planning and flawless execution. From multi-floor marquee installations to dining villages and football pitch-sized bars, the logistics were staggering.

Interesting Stats

  • The London 2012 Olympics generated approximately £2.1 billion in economic impact for the UK (BBC).
  • Over 14 million meals were served during the games, highlighting the massive scale of catering operations (The Guardian).

The Verdict

Ultimately, the success of outside catering at London 2012 could only be judged once the games were underway. The opening ceremony marked the beginning of a high-pressure period for catering companies, who had to deliver on their promises and exceed expectations.

Conclusion

London 2012 was a defining moment for outside catering in the UK. The event showcased the industry's ability to handle large-scale, high-stakes events with creativity and precision. As the world watched, catering companies rose to the occasion, setting new standards for corporate hospitality.

This article highlights the immense efforts and expertise required to cater for the London 2012 Olympics, emphasizing the critical role of outside catering in delivering a world-class hospitality experience.