The catering industry has been growing steadily over the past five years, fuelled by events like weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. As hosts become busier, the demand for full service caterers continues rising. Starting a catering company allows you to capitalize on this growth while pursuing your passion for food and event planning.  

When launching a catering business, you’ll need to develop your concept, create tantalizing menus, establish processes for executing events, market your services, and manage finances and operations. It requires an initial investment as well as dedication through long hours. However, the ability to fully control your work and see your artistic visions come to life make it a rewarding endeavour.

Every new catering company needs a business plan to determine viability and guide decision making. Outline your core offerings based on a combination of your culinary skills and cuisine types that are popular in your area. Research competitor caterers to identify unmet needs in the local market. For example, few caterers in your area may offer organic menus.  

Estimate costs for ingredients, kitchen rental, equipment, payroll, insurance, marketing etc. Then, project revenues based on the typical client size and price point you plan to target. This will help you calculate start-up and working capital requirements. Finally, establish milestones for the first 1-3 years in business.

Most caterers choose a limited liability company (LLC) structure to separate their business and personal assets. Additionally, you’ll need various permits and licenses such as a food handler’s permit, liquor license if serving alcohol, and certificate from the health department for any prepared foods. Ensure your commercial kitchen has adequate space and equipment for preparing your menus. Also, determine if you’ll need a licensed, insured vehicle for delivering food.   

Develop diverse menus that align with your catering specialty, whether it’s barbecue spreads, sophisticated hor d’oeuvres, or authentic ethnic food. Offer packages for standard events like weddings, corporate lunches, and cocktail parties. However, also provide customized menus at different price points to appeal to individual tastes and budgets. This flexibility will attract more clients. Experiment with unique combinations and seasonal ingredients to stand out from competitors.

Create a website highlighting menus, photos, testimonials plus contact information and online inquiries. Promote your catering on wedding sites, local magazines, community bulletins both online and offline. Attend networking events to connect with corporate clients and wedding planners who can recommend you to their clients.

Consider partnering with venues in your area. Offer them a percentage of sales for allowing you exclusive catering rights at their locations. This provides guaranteed bookings. Also, stay active on social media by posting images of your recent events and engaging followers. Offer discounts or free tastings to convert sales leads.

Maintain strong relationships with food distributors allowing you to source quality ingredients at wholesale rates. Develop systems to manage inventory and place orders ahead of large events. For staffing, hire talented chefs and cooks skilled in executing your specific menus. Servers should have customer service experience and the flexibility to work irregular hours.

To deliver seamless events, create detailed timelines mapping out each preparation task leading up to service. Conduct briefings before events to give staff assignments and expectations. Have policies in place for site setup, breakdown procedures, dietary restrictions etc.

The above may you a comprehensive overview on key steps for starting a successful and sustainable catering company.