Catersource State of the Industry 2024
“The catering industry in 2024 was hopeful. With the pandemic wreaking havoc on hospitality that had long-lasting ramifications, 2024 was a year where many organizations were able to settle into what felt something like a new normal. With that normalcy on our side, hope for more stability in the future was able to grow.” —Christie Altendorf
What catering styles or requests were highly requested throughout 2024? Buffet
What key steps are you taking in 2025 to improve your business? Focusing on more profitable business, moving away from less profitable business Marketing more aggressively 60% How does the 2024 projected profit compare to 2023? More than in 2023 About the same as in 2023 Less than in 2023 43% 32% 25%
61% 52%
Grazing and other charcuterie-style boards & tables Action stations Bar service Plated meals Butler passed Compostable or recyclable products only Family style & shared plates Individually packaged to-go items or boxes Immersive/interactive catered experiences Farm-to-table Food trucks Zero waste events Pairing menus Open-fire cooking Increased interest in unique or
52% 46% 46% 42% 32%
31% 23%
52% 49% 46%
Broadening my client base Seeking more work from my existing client base Increasing staff training Creating events for smaller budgets Forming partnerships with other event professionals Adding new staff Adding new technology capabilities Demonstrating the value/ROI for my events Adding services Other
23%
41% 39%
21% 19% 15% 13% 12% 10%
36%
34% 34%
mismatched vessels Synchronized service Vertical food stations
33%
10% 8%
27% 5%
CATERSOURCE ■ WINTER 2024
21
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