Catering is an extremely competitive industry, and many companies struggle to define what makes their brand unique. Any catering company can offer an attractive menu and exceptional customer service, but what will really set your company apart comes down to the details. Here are a few ideas on how to build a catering business that stands out from your competitors:
Find Your Niche
It’s tempting to try to appeal to all types of clients, however, establishing a niche for your catering company can help attract stronger leads. Weddings are a popular specialty, but there are plenty of other industries you can serve with less competition. Do some research to try to identify the underserved industries in your service area. Large office buildings, financial institutions, family reunions and wellness retreats are good markets to start exploring. Specialized menu offerings are another good way your catering company can be competitive. Offering organic, vegan or even culturally-specific menu items could help your company stand out.
Form Strategic Partnerships
No matter what type of food you serve, it’s imperative that you strive to source the highest quality ingredients. Aligning your company with trustworthy suppliers can make or break your business. Sourcing your food, linens, and equipment from the right providers can help build your company’s reputation for quality and consistency. Unfortunately, vendor management can often be a daunting task for catering companies. Joining a buying group is an excellent way to make your purchasing systems run more efficiently with the added benefit of cutting down on overhead.
Shine on Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool when it comes to creating a name for yourself online. Prospective customers will often look to your social media channels to get a sense of what your company has to offer prior to ever reaching out for a quote. You only get one chance at a first impression, so it’s important that your social media profiles reflect your company and what makes it unique. The content you share on these channels should tell a story about the care that goes into every event you cater. Of course, you’ll want to share photos of your beautifully designed spreads and expertly plated meals, but you should also consider sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the prep that goes into an event. Learning how to get catering clients is essential and giving prospective customers the opportunity to peek behind the curtain will help them feel more connected to your brand, which could ultimately lead to more bookings.
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