Catersource State of the Industry 2024
buds but to capture attention on social media,” says Meg Grasso (Constellation Culinary Group). “These visually striking setups serve as both décor and conversation starters, encouraging guests to snap and share photos. As a result, food presentation has become an integral part of creating a memorable and Instagram-worthy event experience.” “One of the biggest trends we saw in 2024 was the return to fine dining at weddings,” adds Altendorf. “From restaurant-like atmospheres with cozy banquettes and table lamps, to multiple courses at the table with perfectly paired wines—intuitive table service fueled by warm hospitality took center stage.” It’s no longer about traditional buffets and sit-down meals. Interactive dining experiences are on the rise, with options such as live cooking stations, grazing tables (see the fall issue of Special Events magazine for a deeper look at grazing tables), smoke and fire, food bars, and tasting events becoming popular. These setups not only engage guests but also create memorable moments, allowing them
to connect with the food and the chef. “Today’s clients are looking for experiences, not just events,” says Sanchez. “Caterers are creating immersive moments where food and drink become interactive parts of the event.” Modernizing menus The wellness trend continued to gain traction on menus, with consumers becoming more health-conscious about their food choices. Caterers adapted by offering nutritious menu options, highlighting superfoods, and providing transparency regarding ingredient sourcing. These health- conscious options reflect a growing desire for holistic, mind-body connection. In the coming years, health and wellness will likely become even more central to catering services. Expect to see a rise in functional foods—those that offer additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition—as well as increased demand for transparency around ingredient sourcing and nutritional content. Additionally, the integration of personalized nutrition advice into catering services could become a standard offering. Beverage programs are also evolving beyond the standard fare. Clients now want immersive beverage experiences—from build-your- own cocktail stations to mobile mixologists and curated pairing experiences. There’s also been a rise in zero-proof cocktails and non-alcoholic pairings, as wellness trends drive inclusivity for those who prefer not to drink alcohol. “Mocktails” are gaining recognition for their complexity and craftsmanship, right alongside their alcoholic counterparts. Menus are also responding to seasonality and supply chain changes. Caterers are designing
menus in real time, creating seasonal cocktails and limited-time food stations based on ingredient availability. “Menus not only help keep guests energized and engaged,” says Altendorf, “but also act as a community building opportunity.” Technology means streamlining Another theme of the year has been technology and the best ways to implement it within catering operations (34% of survey respondents said technology will be a focus in 2025). The integration of technology is weaving its way into the fabric of catering services, revolutionizing how caterers and clients interact. “Tech is non-negotiable and AI and automation are becoming essential tools for planning, executing, and managing real-time client interactions,” says Sanchez. “From dietary preferences to guest experience tracking, technology is now deeply embedded in the event process.” Caterers are leveraging digital tools for everything from booking and payment processing to menu customization and event planning. Online ordering systems, interactive apps, and virtual tastings are streamlining the catering process, making it easier for clients to plan their events. Technology has proven time and again its ability to improve efficiency and customer experience (turn to page 28 in the adjoining Special Events magazine for a deeper look at the technology trends that shaped 2024). One tool that has taken the catering and events industry by storm in 2024 is the continued rise of artificial intelligence (see the fall issue of Special Events magazine for a crash course on everything AI).
Hear more from these industry experts during Catersource + The Special Event, February 24–27, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
• Dana Buchanan • Sebastien Centner • Betty Kalin • Anthony Lambatos • Michael Stavros
WINTER 2024 ■ CATERSOURCE
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