From multi day conferences to weekday lunches, catering meals in a corporate setting comes with a unique set of challenges and opportunities that other social engagements may not.
Operating within a business setting frequently entails:
Constrained deadlines.
Suboptimal kitchen facilities.
Elevated expectations, particularly when catering to significant clients or essential team members.
Nevertheless, none of these factors preclude the possibility of delivering exceptional food and service that surpass expectations.
When working with business clients, punctuality is paramount.
There may only be half an hour to grab lunch between meetings, and it is important that your meal is ready to meet that tight turnaround.
With that in mind, your meal should include items that are easy to take quickly, and a set up to match.
We recommend avoiding something like a build it yourself bar in favor of fully composed dishes that are one grab away. Additionally, always plan to have food set 10 minutes before the set meal time, to reduce the chance of a last minute scramble eating up valuable meal time.
As important as punctuality, is flexibility when it comes to timelines. In a business environment things are always on the move. Meetings start late and end early, a last minute call can pull someone away at an important moment, etc.
As much as we may plan, mealtimes can become a moving target.
Actions we take to guarantee an outstanding corporate catering experience for our clients:
Anticipate flexibility by preparing ahead of schedule, ensuring readiness well in advance of the required time.
Include menu items that can be swiftly finalized and maintain their quality over extended periods.
Maintain contingency plans for holding dishes, whether through chafing dishes, hot boxes, or refrigeration, ensuring readiness regardless of unexpected circumstances.
Lastly,
Remember, in a corporate setting, your meal may cater to a diverse audience with varying dietary needs. Ensure inclusivity by offering a wide array of accommodating options on your menu, allowing everyone to enjoy a satisfying meal, regardless of undisclosed restrictions. Include grab-and-go selections like sandwiches, granola bowls, and fruit cups for those with limited time between meetings.
In the business realm, catering should not only provide sustenance, convenience, and adaptability but also elevate the occasion beyond standard break room fare. With meticulous planning, any work function can become the highlight of a team member's week or leave a lasting impression on an important client.
We're eager to assist you in planning your next corporate event. Click the link below to connect with our sales team!