conclusion of catering business plan

How To Write A Winning Catering Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for catering businesses that want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding. This begs a question: what elements appropriately belong in your catering business plan.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every catering business owner should include in his or her business plan.

Download the Ultimate Catering Business Plan Template

What is a Catering Business Plan?

A catering business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write a Catering Business Plan?

A catering business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Catering Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful catering business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a catering business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan. Follow these tips:

• Start with a one-line description of your catering company
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.
• Form a line-up of evaluators to whom you will give your catering business plan and have them be heartless in their criticism.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your catering business, you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your catering firm, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen catering business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of a catering business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer in the catering business plan  include:

• What part of the catering industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, a catering business’ customers may include:

• Wedding receptions
• Corporate luncheons and events
• Private parties
• Cocktail parties

This information will help you determine your marketing strategy later on. It is important to remember that your target market may not always be the same as your actual customer base. In other words, you may have to market to a different audience in your catering business plan than the one you eventually want to sell your services to.

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or catering services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing strategy. Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, launch a direct mail campaign. Or you may promote your catering business via word-of-mouth.

Operations Plan

This part of your catering business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next three-to-five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for a catering business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include:

Hiring a certain number of new employees

Opening a second location

Rolling out a new product or service line

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific catering industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Catering Business

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Catering Business

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup catering business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Catering Business

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your catering company. It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

A well-written business plan is critical for any catering business looking to start or grow. In addition, be sure to include a detailed financial plan and supporting documentation in your appendix. This will give investors and lenders the confidence they need to believe in your company’s long-term success.  

Finish Your Catering Business Plan in 1 Day!

Other helpful articles.

Free Catering Invoice Template and FAQs

How to write a business plan for a catering company?

Are you a startup catering business looking to see if your idea is viable and raise financing?

Or an existing catering company looking for ways to grow, expand or improve profitability? 

If so, this guide will provide the tools and insights you need to write a comprehensive business plan for your catering company.

This in-depth guide covers why you should write a business plan for your catering company; what information is necessary; what such plans typically include; and the best tools available for creating them. 

With these resources, you'll be well on your way toward success as an established or aspiring caterer!

On the menu:

Why write a business plan for a catering company?

• Information needed to create a business plan for a catering company
• What is the financial forecast for a catering company?
• The written part of a catering business plan
• What tool should I use to write my catering business plan?

Creating a business plan for a catering company is an essential step in the success of any food service venture. Even if you already have an established catering business, you should regularly revise and update your plan.

A business plan is essential because:

• It forces you to think about how you will grow your business
• It’s what financiers will look at if your goal is to get funding
• It helps you keep track of your progress

Business planning and your catering business growth

Having a clear vision for where you want your business to go will help guide your decisions on how to get there.

Writing a business plan will force you to anticipate every aspect of your business - from pricing, marketing and staffing to forecasting, and financial planning - and act as your roadmap for the years to come.

Obtaining funding for your catering business

A well-crafted catering business plan is a mandatory tool when looking for funding.

The business plan details your company's aims and objectives and gives crucial information to potential lenders to make informed judgments about your catering business’ borrowing capacity. 

Similarly, every Investor wants to see healthy growth, profitability, and cash generation to make sure their investment in your catering company will generate a good return on investment. 

Your catering business plan will provide this detailed financial information through the income statements (P&L), balance sheets, and cash flow statements, enabling investors to make an informed decision. 

Keeping track of your catering business’s progress

A business plan is essential if you want to track the progress of your catering business. 

It’s easy to set ambitious goals, but delivering on them is what really matters. Having a business plan in place, and regularly comparing your results to what was planned, keeps you honest about your capacity to execute.

Tracking your financial performance against your forecasts is especially key as it enables you to quickly identify if you are on track or not, and when needed to adjust your forecast in order to maintain visibility on your future cash flows. 

Now that you understand the importance of writing a business plan for a catering company, it's time to look at what information is needed to create one. 

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

What information is needed to create a business plan for a catering company?

Carrying out market research for a catering company.

Market research (a look into consumer behaviour and economic trends) is essential before writing a business plan for a catering company. 

Market research provides valuable insight into the industry and can help you to identify potential customer needs, competition, and trends in the market. 

When performing market research for your catering business you could look at answering questions like:

• Is the sector growing?
• What are the most attractive customer segments (corporate, weddings, or social events)?
• Who is the competition? Is the target market saturated?
• What types of cuisine (Mexican, Italian, vegetarian, fast food, traditional, etc.) are more profitable?
• What are the upcoming trends in customer habits in the catering business?
• What are sales like during weekdays and weekends? Is there a high level of seasonality?
• What is pricing like? And how have profit margins evolved in recent years?

With this information, you can more accurately forecast revenues (sales) and create an effective marketing strategy to give your catering company the best chance of success. 

Also, it gives investors confidence in your understanding of the industry and provides evidence that you are taking steps to ensure long-term sustainability. 

Developing the marketing plan for a catering company

You will also need to think about your go to market strategy - i.e. what actions will be put in place to acquire and retain customers. 

Having a clear sales & marketing strategy in place will help you ensure you have the right level of staff, and budget for sales and marketing costs, to hit the sales targets set in your business plan. 

The staffing and equipment needs of a catering company

Before developing your catering business plan, you should evaluate the recruitment strategy and the investments required. 

Knowing how much money is needed for staffing is key to accurately anticipating the funding requirements and cost structure in the forecast of your catering company.

For example, you could consider how much it will cost you to hire:

• A manager (event planner)
• A supervisor
• Dishwashers

Similarly, you should also factor in the money you will spend on equipment that is needed to start or expand your business.

Once you have collected all the necessary information to create a business plan for your catering company, the next step is to develop a financial forecast. 

What goes in the financial forecast of a catering company?

The financial forecast for a catering company contains the profit and loss (P&L) or income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement which we will present in more detail below

These financial tables enable the readers of your plan to assess the financial potential of your catering business, in particular its viability, borrowing capacity and potential return on investment.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for a catering company is a financial statement that shows how much money your company is expected to make (profit) and how much it is anticipated to grow over time.

The projected balance sheet of your catering company

The balance sheet is an essential financial statement used to assess your catering company's financial position at a given time. It is a snapshot of the company’s assets, liabilities, and net worth (owner’s money left in the business after deducting liabilities from assets). 

Equipment, inventory, accounts receivable (a record of sales made on credit), investments, and cash are samples of assets a firm may own. Loans, accounts payable (purchases the business made on credit), taxes, and wages are examples of liabilities. 

Lenders, investors or business owners can get an insight into a business’s financial condition when they compare what your business owes versus what it owns. 

Also, a catering company's balance sheet will show whether it is solvent (the ability of the business to pay its long-term debt) or liquid (the business's ability to pay its short-term debt). This helps assess your catering business' funding requirements and borrowing capacity.

The projected cash flow statement

The cash flow forecast of your catering business helps you understand how much money is coming in and going out. 

This will assist you in making informed decisions about how to expand your business and plan for the future. 

Knowing your cash flow can also help you determine whether you have enough money to keep the business running or if you need additional capital.

The initial financing plan

An initial financing plan shows how much money you need at the start of your catering company business plan, where it will come from, and what it will be used for.

Now that you know what you should include in your catering company's financial forecast, it's time to look at the written portion of your business plan which provides the context needed to evaluate the relevance of your financial forecast.

The written presentation of a catering company business plan

The written presentation is composed of 7 main sections:

The executive summary

• The description of the business

The products and services section

The market analysis.

• The strategy 
• The operations
• The financial plan

The executive summary of the business plan of your catering company should enable readers to quickly and easily understand who you are, what you do, and the objectives of your business plan. 

The summary should include your mission and vision statement, a comprehensive overview of the catering business, its market, key financials, an overview of your plans and goals, your business strategy, your funding requirements, and the administrative structure of your business.

Presentation of the company

When preparing the description of your catering business, it is essential to consider the different parts that make up the business. First, you should explore the structure and ownership of your enterprise. 

This includes information on who owns the business, how many shareholders there are, and what type of legal entity (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and so on) your business operates as.

The second part to consider is the location of your business. It is crucial to explain why you have chosen a particular area or city for your catering venture, and how the local market may benefit from having your services.

Finally, you should describe the management team. Include an outline of each member’s experience and certifications, and how their jobs will contribute to the catering company's success. 

A good leadership team is vital for every business plan since it increases investor trust. As a result, ensuring that they are adequately highlighted can make all the difference.

When you are writing the products and services of the business plan for a catering business, it is important to include detailed descriptions of each product or service.

For example, in this portion of the business plan, you could state that you cater to private events, weddings, corporate groups, and so on. 

Your plan's reader should have a sense of how many guests can be served for each type of event, what types of menus are available, and if any specific dietary needs can be met, as well as other significant facts.

The goal here is to ensure you adequately present all your products and services.

This information should be clear, concise and comprehensive so that potential investors or banks can get a good understanding of what exactly your catering company offers.

When presenting the conclusion of your market analysis in your catering business plan, you should include information about demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and regulation. 

This will help lenders and investors understand who the company is targeting with its services, and help inform their opinion of your commercial potential.

In addition to demographic information, it's also important to provide an overview of your competition in order to show potential investors why your service stands out from others in the local market.

You should also explain any relevant regulations you must adhere to when operating.

By providing such details you will give potential lenders and investors a clear understanding of how well-positioned you are for success in this competitive industry landscape.

The strategy section

When writing the strategy section of your business plan for a catering company, you should detail your competitive advantage, pricing strategy, marketing plan, milestones and risks and mitigants (how to counter the risks). 

The competitive advantage should highlight how your services are unique from other competitors in the area. This could include special cuisine options or services, such as delivery or event planning. 

In addition, a pricing strategy is essential to ensure that customers are getting value for money while still making sure that profits are maximized. Pricing should be competitive yet profitable for the business, considering market trends and the customer's willingness to pay. 

Moreover, a detailed marketing plan must be included which outlines how the company plans to promote its services and reach potential customers. 

Plus, you should set milestones to measure the success of your business plan, and risks and mitigants identified to prepare for any potential issues that may arise. 

With these elements included, your strategy section will ensure that your catering company stands out from the competition.

The operations section

This section should provide an overview of how your business is organized to achieve success and must be convincing enough to investors and banks.

The operations section of your catering business plan, you should include detailed information about your staffing team, roles and responsibilities of staff members, recruitment plans, operating hours, key assets and intellectual property needed to operate the business, and suppliers. 

In terms of staffing, your business plan should detail who will be responsible for each job role, what qualifications and experience are required for each position, and how many people will fill that role. 

The financial plan section

The financial plan section of the guide is where you talk about the financial forecast we talked about earlier in this guide. 

By now, you should have a comprehensive understanding of the information that belongs in your catering business plan. It's time to begin assembling all the parts. 

What tool should I use to write my catering company's business plan?

In this section, we’ll be reviewing three solutions for creating a business plan for your catering company: using Word and Excel, hiring a consultant, or using online business plan software.

Create your catering company's business plan using Word or Excel

Using Word and Excel sounds attractive because they are cheap, but these tools are often not the best solution for you due to their limitations.

Do you have the skills to create a forecast in Excel? This is the first issue if you are going fully manual with Excel: you need to understand what you are doing, meaning that you need to have a solid background in accounting and finance to avoid making mistakes.

The second issue is trust. Even if you avoid making mistakes, will investors and lenders think you did? 

Now when it comes to writing the actual business plan, Word is great but you start from a blank page, without instructions, and have to do all the formatting which takes forever.

Hire a consultant to write your catering company's business plan

Outsourcing the writing of your catering business plan to an accountant or consultant may be a viable option for you if you don’t have time. 

The main advantage of this approach is that consultants and accountants are used to writing business plans and financial forecasts, and thus there is less risk of errors. 

However, this method also has its drawbacks:

• It’s expensive: it costs a minimum of $2,000 (or £1,500) to get a business plan from a consultant.
• Revisions required after the first version of the plan are often not included in the price.
• Unless the consultant knows your industry by heart, they are unlikely to be able to challenge your assumptions, and to be able to sell your positioning compellingly.
• Accountants won't touch any part of the presentation (they only help with the forecast).

Using an online business plan software

Another alternative is to use online business plan software . There are several advantages to using specialized software:

• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can be inspired by already written business plan templates
• You can easily make your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
• You get a professional document, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank
• The software will enable you to easily track your actual financial performance against your forecast and update your forecast as time goes by

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try our software for free by signing up here .

We hope that this article has helped you to better understand how to write the business plan for a catering company. If you still have questions, do not hesitate to contact us.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How to write a successful business plan for a pizzeria
• Coffee shop business plan template
• Business model canvas vs business plan
• Business plans vs internal plans
• How long should your business plan be?

Know someone in the catering industry? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

Create a convincing business plan

Assess the profitability of your business idea and create a persuasive business plan to pitch to investors

500,000+ entrepreneurs have already tried our solution - why not join them?

Not ready to try our on-line tool? Learn more about our solution here

Need some inspiration for your business plan?

Subscribe to The Business Plan Shop and gain access to our business plan template library.

Need a professional business plan? Discover our solution

Write your business plan with ease!

It's easy to create a professional business plan with The Business Plan Shop

Want to find out more before you try? Learn more about our solution here

• MARKETPLACE
• DOWNLOAD BUSINESS KIT

How To Write a Catering Business Plan w/ Templates (PDF, Word Doc)

Whether you’re starting a catering business full-time or planning to operate out of your house initially , writing a business plan is essential to getting clear on the type of catering business you want to open. After all there’s some pretty important stuff covered inside of what can seem like a stuffy document.

For the purposes of starting a catering company, think about the business plan as the one place you put your operation details. Things like the cooking equipment you need to purchase and the total cost, tentative catering menu, food costs, and who your target customer is. These are all super important details you need to understand before opening! This document provides a place for you to organize everything.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to draft your plan and start on that first catering gig you’ve been planning to open. We also provide templates you can use in PDF and Word Doc you can download and edit. Let’s get started.

Executive Summary

Catering spread for a Mexican food concept.

Start your business plan with an executive summary. This is a way to introduce your catering business so whoever is reading your business plan will know what to expect. This will include a brief introduction of your catering business, a description of your company, the services your catering business will be providing, and the customer focus.

Introduction

A quick introduction helps the reader get a bird’s eye view of your catering business. Here you’ll be talking about what to expect and what you can offer as part of your catering service.

This section isn’t considered lengthy. This usually has two to three sentences. What you need to focus on when writing this down is by the end of it, your reader will more or less understand what your catering business is all about.

Here’s an example introduction you can use as a guide:

The Big Spoon is a small catering business headed by Lydia Smith. She specializes in Italian cuisine but can cater to American, Mexican, and Asian dishes as well. The Big Spoon can accommodate an intimate dinner for 2 up to a large party of 50 accompanied with table settings and chafing dishes to complete that delicious home-cooked meal experience.

Just by the introduction, the reader will know how big your catering business is, what cuisine they can expect to order, and how many people the business can cater for. It also gives them an introductory glance about your catering style wherein you already provide more than just food but also a table setting so they don’t have to look for a supplier for this separately.

Keep your introduction informative but also short enough. You will be able to add in more to the details later on.

Company Description

Some food trailers make more than 50% of their annual revenue from catering gigs.

A little background on your catering business is needed in the company description part of the business plan. Here, you can describe the meaning behind the name for your catering business, who the owners are, and what their roles are going to be. Who will be in charge of cooking? Who will be in charge of accounts and marketing?

This may just be brief but this is a way for you to introduce what’s going to happen behind the scenes of your catering business.

Catering works great for food trucks and restaurants.

Although your catering business may sound self-explanatory, it would still be of great help to you if you mentioned the services you’ll be offering.

For example, The Big Spoon already mentioned in their introduction that they’ll be catering food and offering table settings. They could also add that they will be offering an ice cream station and even a cocktail bar.

You will describe more of this in detail later on but you can summarize it and mention it here already.

Customer Focus

For a catering business to flourish, you must know your target market early on. And though a thorough explanation of that can be found in the Market Analysis section, you can briefly state them in this portion as well.

Also, remember that your customer focus would also have to coincide with your skills. You can’t be targeting customers who are vegans if your culinary skills and knowledge do not include cooking vegan food. This is why it’s important to write this early on so you can narrow down the customers you are planning to cater to.

Mission Statement

What’s your mission statement?

Businesses with clear goals stated from the start lead to a successful operation. Why? Because every decision you make revolves around these goals which will lead you closer to success.

Here’s a sample mission statement to picture it out clearly:

The Big Spoon aims to cater delicious home-cooked meals to its customers. Every dish that is served will contain natural and fresh ingredients. We see to it that the service we provide is top-notch so that our customers will feel as if they are being served in a fine restaurant in the comforts of their own home or wherever they choose to have us cater them.

By writing this down in your business plan, you and your staff will have to stand by the standards you’ve set for yourselves. For instance, as stated in The Big Spoon’s mission statement, no fast food will be served and no artificial ingredients will be used so you and your staff will always remember this by heart.

By following this and revolving your decisions around your mission statement, you will be able to keep such standards which will lead to pleased and returning customers.

Company Concept

This is the section of the business plan where you can finally put in detail the concept you’ve been planning for your catering business. Remember the things you’ve been holding back in saying in the introduction? This is the time to write them all down now.

Related Reading: 7 Powerful Ways I Promote and Market My Catering Business

You can start by answering the following questions:

• What cuisine will you be offering?
• How many people can you cater to?
• Will you be offering healthy options such as vegan, keto, or paleo meals?

You may also add in other concept ideas that are not mentioned above. Just make sure to cover everything so you can have a basis for your product line and services to be tackled later on.

Market Analysis

A compelling catering business logo.

Planning to put your business out there means you also have to know the industry you’ll be diving into. This is to help you analyze your potential customers, the growth of the catering business in your area, and the competition.

Target Market

As mentioned above in the customer focus, your skills will have to match your target market. You’ve already written a brief introduction about it so in this section, all you have to do is to explain it in detail.

Industry Analysis

The catering business has been going on for a long while now so it’s important to gather in as much information as you can regarding this industry. This is to help you figure out if there is a potential market for your business and how to put your plans into action.

Another helpful guide is to look into the type of cuisine most people in your area look for. You can then incorporate it into your business and offer it as part of your menu.

The bottom line is that analyzing the industry around you helps you plan better for the future of your catering business.

Competitive Analysis

You will not be the only catering business in your area. You’ll have to consider restaurants as your competition too. Check their prices and set menus. Do a competition check by tasting their food once in a while. Knowing who the players are in this competitive business game gives you the upper hand because you’ll be aware of their strengths and weaknesses and how to deal with them on the field.

Management Structure

Determine the key players in your business.

A catering service is run by a few people. In this section of the business plan, you’ll list down everyone who is working on this business alongside you as well as the roles they possess in your business. This includes:

• Business Partners
• Accountants
• Co-chefs (If you’re not the only one doing the cooking)

Why is this so important, you might ask? Stating clear business roles and laying out the management structure keeps everyone in check and helps avoid any misunderstandings. Most businesses that don’t define this early on end up having a messy workflow. So make sure to state each duty clearly for everyone to follow.

Product Line and Services

Burgers are a proven catering option.

This section of the business plan goes hand in hand with your company concept. Here you can present your different sample menus for all the cuisine you wish to cater to. Be sure to include the prices for the set menus per head.

You can also write down the services you plan to offer. Here are some you can consider for your catering business:

• Out of town catering
• Cocktail station
• Set up style (buffet or plated)
• Table setting (formal or casual, rustic or summer feel)
• Wait staff or food display only

Writing them all down in this section will keep your business more organized which is very important when you start on your catering business.

Sales and Marketing

Grilled chicken is another popular option for caterers.

How are you going to market your catering business? Do you plan to have an ad out in your local newspaper and on social media? Both strategies are fine but you need to find more ways to get your catering business out there.

One way to market yourself is to partner up with rental spaces such as function halls that do not provide food. Give them a proposal that when there are inquiries regarding the rental of their halls, they would present your set menus to the guests as well so they don’t need to trouble over finding a caterer.

Related Reading: How I Started a Legit Catering Business Out of My House

Partnering with several event coordinators is also a way to get your business known. People these days hire event coordinators to do all the planning for them. They expect these coordinators to answer all their questions from food, music, and decorations. By partnering up with an event coordinator, they’ll be the ones to pitch in your catering business to their customers.

Remember to uphold your mission statement as well. By providing good food and high-class standards during your catering event, you’re already marketing your products and services to the number of people you’re catering to. So always make an exceptional first impression because that will stay with the guests long enough for them to remember hiring you on their next and succeeding events.

Financial Plan

Plan your financial future.

Knowing where you’re going to get the funds to start your catering business is a must. This is how you’ll know if your plans are going to be achievable or not. Besides, having a solid financial plan will also allow you to go through with your ideas without any interruptions.

In this section, break down your financial plan into two categories which are your plans to request for funding and your financial forecast.

Funding Request

Some business owners are ready to put up their catering business due to having saved enough money through the years. But what if you lack the funds to do it? Don’t fret. You can still loan from the bank and invite investors.

Whatever your plan is that deals with requesting for funding, include it here so you can document it.

Financial Forecast

Make conservative and best case scenario financial forecasts.

Reaching break-even is the ultimate goal when you’re putting up a business. You can compute how long it will take you to reach it early on in the planning stage.

You can also list down all your proposed expenses here which include the following:

• Pots, pans, and other large kitchen appliances and tools for cooking
• Chafing dishes
• Dessert displays and trays
• Table cloths, plates, glasses, and utensils
• Uniforms for you and the staff
• Storage boxes and food warmers

You may also add in tables and chairs if you do not want to keep on renting these. But sometimes, the venue where you’ll be catering can provide these as well.

Download Now: Bakery Business Plan Templates for 2021

Be sure to include your staff’s payroll expenses. Since catering events are not done daily (unless you’ve already made a name for yourself and you’re booked every day), you can just have your wait staff be on call and pay them per catering event rather than a daily wage.

By computing these, you’ll know just how much you should allot for your startup capital and how much should your goals be to reach during every catering gig in order to profit off of it.

Operational Plan

What’s your operation plan?

Put your plan into action by making a timeline of your operations. Here is an example:

Date Plan [Insert Date Here] – Finalize the business documents you need such as permits and registrations for your catering business.[Insert Date Here] – Start marketing your business on social media and the local news. Send out proposals for partnerships with event coordinators and function halls.[Insert Date Here] – Hire and train staff.[Insert Date Here] – Start catering when booked.[Insert Date Here] – Achieve goals and reach break-even.

The appendix section of the business plan is where you can put all your documentation. This includes photos of your food and table setting and your copies of the permits and registration for your catering business.

Download Templates

Here are the catering business plan samples in PowerPoint, Word Doc, Google Doc, and PDF. These are ideal for commercial or home-based catering businesses.

• Catering business plan template Google Doc
• PDF catering business plan sample
• Catering PowerPoint template
• Catering businesses are ideal because there is no space for you to rent which is considered one of the main expenses that can be quite heavy on the pockets. You will be cooking in the comfort of your own home. Just make sure your place can handle heavy cooking and there is enough space for you and your staff to move about.
• It would be nice to learn more about the different cuisines as you go along so you can cater to a wide variety of audiences.
• Include a checklist of all the equipment you need to operate at the start. These equipment requirements make up the bulk of your startup costs. You can download a checklist of frequently used catering equipment here .

Throughout this entire guide, we have been referring to your readers as one of the main reasons why you should make your catering business plan easy to understand. But in truth, making this business plan is for you as well. You will need this plan when you’re requesting for financial assistance in banks and this would also serve as your work guide. So remember to keep it detailed and easy to comprehend because you will be using this on the road to putting up your business.

While opening a catering business can be extraordinarily rewarding there are a few factors you should consider before deciding to push ahead. Creating a business plan lets you understand what the factors are, what’s going to make this business become a success, and how you can profit from the venture.

If you’re serious about starting a catering business, don’t forget to sign up for our Food Business Startup Kit . This free community will give you access to exclusive interviews with catering professionals you can use to help grow your own business.

Want to start your own food business?

Hey! 👋I’m Brett Lindenberg, the founder of Food Truck Empire.

We interview successful founders and share the stories behind their food trucks, restaurants, food and beverage brands. By sharing these stories, I want to help others get started.

If you liked this story, sign up for our newsletter that includes our food business startup kit and most popular interviews sent straight to your inbox.

Know someone interesting that should be interviewed on the website? Tell us about them here. 

About the Author: Brett Lindenberg

Related Posts

175+ Brilliant Food Tasting Event Names For Your Consideration

(My Tips) 13 Smartest Ways to Save Money on Wedding Catering

Corporate Catering Business: How to Find and Close More Leads

Wedding receptions: how to pull-off an unforgettable catering service guide.

How to Create a Catering Business Plan (Plus Free Template)

Elizabeth started her career at a small local restaurant close to her home. She had big dreams of owning a large catering business. 

Three years later, she learned the ropes, worked hard enough to save money and was ready to launch Chefdini Catering.

Hers is a tale of overcoming all odds.

Within five years, Elizabeth expanded her operations. She employed some staff and was raking in around $5 million in revenue annually.

In an era where 20% of new businesses fail within the first two years, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, how did Elizabeth pull this off?

Well, it may have taken five years, but one thing that helped her navigate her journey smoothly was: 

…a Catering Business Plan.

And she’s not alone. About 70% of new businesses that manage to survive for five years follow a strategic business plan in the US.

So while several factors contribute to businesses failing within the first couple of years, there’s no doubt lack of a business plan is a major reason.

And this isn’t far-fetched.

Imagine building a house without floor plans. How long do you think it’s going to stand? Not long enough.

That’s precisely what happens when you operate your drop-off catering business without a solid plan. And this has nothing to do with how passionate you are.

Think of a business plan as a roadmap or a guide that outlines your goals and details how you intend to achieve them. It’s central to how you start and grow your business. Also, it turns your visions into a concrete action plan for success.

Having a plan is essential for drop-off caterers hoping to thrive in the current, highly competitive catering industry. 

As you read this, over 12,000 establishments are vying for the same customer as you. So running a catering business without a solid plan will only give an opening for your competitors to be many steps ahead of you.

Take Abbey Duke, CEO of SugarSnap Catering, for instance.

From the get-go, part of her strategy was to always stay competitive by serving her customers how they prefer. 

So when the pandemic hit and online ordering became the norm, she quickly leaned on HoneyCart’s order automation software to give customers the convenience they desired. And at the same time, to ensure she wasn’t losing sales to her competitors.

In her words:

“But I knew if we didn’t offer online ordering, we’d be losing sales to companies like Panera that make it easy to order. Busy customers expect convenience and will often choose it over quality.”

Making this kind of game-changing decision at a moment’s notice is one of the perks of having a solid business plan.

Now, you may be wondering:

“How do I create an effective catering business plan?” One that gives you an edge over your competitors and sets you on the path to success like Elizabeth.

Well, I got you covered.

We’ve developed a free catering business plan template you can customize to your specific needs. I know, creating a business plan, even with a free template, is still a daunting task for drop-off caterers. 

Don’t worry.

As we progress through this article, I’ll guide you on how to create one step-by-step. 

Download the free template to follow along with me:

Before we dive in, let’s take a look at some reasons why you must have a catering business plan.

Five Reasons Why You Need a Catering Business Plan

1. it shows you mean business.

Today, technology has made it easy for anyone to start a catering business. Even amateurs can create an Instagram account, post some mouthwatering dishes and wait for orders to flood in.

But is this strategy going to cut it in the long run? 

Absolutely not!

If you intend to scale your business, then it starts with a foolproof business plan. One that gives you insight into where your business is headed in the next five to ten years.

Having a business plan also emphasizes the commitment of you and everyone involved. It guides you in making smart decisions that will help scale your operations.

However, a catering business plan isn’t set in stone. This means you can change the plan as you progress. But the overall goals remain the same.

2. It Increases Your Chances of Securing Investments

Take Elizabeth, the fictional character I used at the start of this article. 

One reason she could expand her business within five years is that she secured investment and raised funds.

And what’s one crucial thing potential investors will ask before giving you funds? 

Yep, that’s right – a well-detailed business plan.

Imagine she didn’t have one. She wouldn’t have been able to raise the funds needed to expand her operations.

Here’s why:

Investors like to see your plans for scaling the business, its financial projections, industry analysis, level of risk involved, and so on.

Not having a business plan shows you are not intentional about scaling. And this significantly reduces the chances of securing funds needed to expand.

To drive home my point, Tim Berry, founder of Palo Alto Software , did a survey asking his customers questions about their businesses, goals, and business planning.

The result?

From the above report, you’ll see that those who had business plans were almost twice more likely to grow their businesses by securing capital than those who didn’t write a plan.

This emphasizes the importance of having a business plan.

3. It Helps You Understand Your Competitors

A business plan isn’t complete without researching and analyzing your competitors.

Because it helps you understand what they are doing, their offerings, pricing, and how you can improve on them.

Michele Levy , an independent brand strategy consultant agrees:

“Keeping track of who your competitors are, what people are saying about them, and what they are saying themselves can help you differentiate your business and stay ahead of trends that could impact your business.” 

Furthermore, it’s a way to:

• Learn more about the latest market trends
• Recognize opportunities your competitors don’t offer
• Get an idea of your ideal customer persona
• Threats to your business
• Understand the catering industry better.

As a result, you can create a strategic plan that will improve your business.

4. Discover New Opportunities

Another benefit of creating a catering business plan is discovering new opportunities to boost your business in ways you never imagined.

Through research and competitive analysis, you may realize there are one or more niches that are underserved in your area.

So, instead of doing what every other drop-off caterer does, you can carve out a niche for yourself by doing something different.

For example, during the global pandemic that crippled catering activities, Chef Jolie of Low Country Quisine needed another source of revenue.

So she went back to the drawing board. 

The result? She launched a Gourmet Takeaway Service.

By making it a habit to spot opportunities in market trends, she realized the need for an online ordering platform.

According to her:

“We needed to find new ways to generate revenue during the pandemic. We launched our Gourmet Takeaway Service and needed an online platform for customers to order.”

And if she didn’t do this, here’s what would have happened:

“We would not have been able to reach as many customers without the ability to accept orders and payments online.”

5. Measure the Success of Your Business

One of the goals of running a business is to hit milestones and achieve major goals.

And the only way to measure your success is to compare results with the actual plan. This way, you can see whether you’ve achieved your operational and financial goals within a specific timeframe.

For example, you set a goal of getting at least 150 customers within six months, expanding to at least four locations within 12 months, or like Elizabeth, hit $5 million annually.

By documenting these goals, not only does it make you committed to achieving them, but it also ensures you have something to measure your success against. 

And it will give you a sense of fulfillment when you finally accomplish your goals. Without a doubt, a well-documented business plan fast-tracks achieving your goals.

Now that you know the importance of a catering business plan, let’s look at the essential elements of an ideal business plan.

Essential Elements of a Catering Business Plan

Creating a catering business plan may sound like a daunting task. But in reality, it isn’t. It’s not much different from the usual business plan. 

However, it focuses on elements specific to the food and catering industry.

So what are these elements?

• Confidentiality Agreement
• Executive Summary
• Business Focus
• Market Research
• Marketing Plan
• Financial Plan

Let’s take a brief look at what each of these elements should contain.

Want to create yours as you go through this guide? 

Don’t forget to download (and make a copy) of the template here . 

1. Confidentiality Agreement

How do you ensure anyone reading your business plan doesn’t disclose the content to other people? 

That’s where a confidentiality agreement comes in.

It’s an agreement between you and anyone reading your business plan not to reveal the content to any other person without your permission. 

And to be on the safe side, you should have a proper legal counsel review any agreement you use in your business.

So if they do reveal the content, you will have the right protections in place.

Here’s an example of a confidentiality agreement:

The undersigned reader of [Company’s Name] Business Plan acknowledges that the information provided is completely confidential. Therefore, the reader agrees not to disclose anything found in the business plan without the express written consent of [Business Owner’s Name].

It is also acknowledged by the reader that the information to be furnished in this business plan is in all aspects confidential in nature, other than information that is in the public domain through other means, and that any disclosure or use of the same by the reader may cause serious harm and or damage to [Company Name].

Upon request, this business plan document will be immediately returned to [Business Owner’s Name].

This is a business plan. It does not imply an offer of any securities.

Applicable Law

This contract shall be governed by the laws of the County of ________ in the State of _______ and any applicable Federal law.

________________________________

Printed Name

2. Executive Summary

They say you only get one chance at a first impression. An executive summary is an opportunity to show anyone reading it what your catering business is about.

Chances are, if it lacks specific information or doesn’t capture the reader’s attention, they may not read further.

The executive summary should include a brief introduction to your catering business, your services, and who you cater to.

Here’s an example of an executive summary of Elizabeth’s fictional catering business.

Chefdini is a small catering business located in Georgia. It was founded by Elizabeth White six years ago. We specialize in Asian cuisine but also cater to Mexican and Italian dishes. Chefdini operates off-premise and on-premise catering with a focus on events, retreats, and social gatherings. 

At a glance, this brief introduction shows what Chefdini is about, the kind of cuisines they specialize in, and who their audience is. Anyone who reads it can immediately get an idea of what to expect.

3. Business Focus

The business focus details how you’ll run your business, so anyone reading it will have a clear understanding of plans, goals, and priorities.

Information to include in your business focus are:

• Mission statement: an action-based statement that declares the purpose of your business, what you want to achieve, and how you intend to do it.
• Business details: a summary of your business, the founders, business location, services, and ethos. 
• Professional support: details of any professional help you have received from an individual, an organization, or the government.
• Founders: history and background of anyone involved in starting the business
• Team members: details of those involved in the operations of the business and their roles.
• Aims & Objectives: as the name implies, here you include the details of what you hope to achieve with your business and the steps you’ll take to achieve it. Your aims and objectives can be short, medium, or long-term.

4. Market Research

Dan Zarrella , an analytical marketing leader and author of four books on marketing once said:

“Marketing without data is like driving with your eyes closed.”

And how do you get this data? Through Market Research.

Market research is the process of gathering information to understand your target market better. As such, it’s a fundamental part of a business plan.

Under market research, you’ll find:

Client Research

Your clients are the set of people who need your catering services and are most likely to pay for them. 

To have any chance of making sales, you need to understand your ideal customers, their pain points, challenges, and how you can take them from point A to their desired point B.

So, any information related to the ideal clients like age, location, gender, income, interests, pain points, or goals would add value here.

The goal is to ensure you are not targeting the wrong audience, which would result in wasted efforts.

But when you narrow down your target audience, you will be better placed to tailor your offerings to fulfill their needs.

Competitor Profiling

As I mentioned earlier, competition in the catering industry gets tougher each day, with more caterers and restaurants springing up. But this doesn’t mean there isn’t enough space in the sky for birds to fly.

However, it’s important to know how to stand out. 

And one way to do this is to research your competitors to learn more about their strengths and weaknesses. This way, you’ll discover things that will give you an edge over them.

In addition, well-detailed research about the competition will help you make a realistic assessment of your chances of success in the industry.

Some of the things to add under competitor profiling are:

• Competitor’s Name
• Products/services offered
• Target audience

SWOT Analysis

The word SWOT is an acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

A SWOT analysis is used to evaluate your business’s chances of success and develop a strategic plan. Here you analyze internal and external factors that may help scale your business or throw a wrench in your growth.

5. Marketing Plan

A comprehensive catering marketing strategy will be crucial to your success. After all, people will only patronize you if they know your business exists. 

How do you plan to market your business? Where are you going to get catering clients from? Which channels do you plan to reach them? What’s your marketing budget?

All these are questions that need answers. So you must include your plans for marketing in your catering business plan. A solid marketing plan should contain:

• Unique Selling Point
• Pricing Policy
• Sales & marketing strategy

Don’t forget we have sections in our free template to fill all essential marketing points listed above. Download it here if you haven’t. 

6. Financial Plan

Without a doubt, you need money to finance your catering business. But if you don’t have adequate financing, your business will struggle. 

Because you’ll need to pay for space, pay your staff, pay for equipment and so on. All these require a sufficient amount of funds.

And if you plan to take online orders, investing in online ordering software is a no-brainer. This will help you:

• Process orders faster
• Make it convenient for your customers to order
• Save more time
• Streamline operations without the need for hiring additional staff, thereby saving cost
• And generate more revenue for your business.

So if you want to finance your catering business yourself, a financial plan helps you understand how much funds you need, where to cut expenses and what you need to do to become financially sustainable.

And if you plan to source funds through investors, it will provide them with enough information to determine whether they’ll get their return on investment.

Some of the things you need to include in your financial plan are:

• Startup costs
• Sales forecasts
• Cash Flow forecasts
• Other financials 

Want to know what to fill in these sections? We’ve got you covered. Simply download and make a copy of our free template to fill all essential financial plans listed above.

7. Appendix

This is where you add additional information that is referenced in the business plan. 

It can include things like:

• Financial charts / graphics
• CV’s / Resumes
• Images of work
• Partnership Agreements

Conclusion: Scale Your Catering Business with an Actionable Business Plan

As you’ve seen, creating a business plan is not as difficult as it sounds.

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve started your business or you are just about to start. A catering business plan is crucial to the success of your business.

It helps you understand your business, your customers, and your competitors. Also, it gives you more insight into the catering industry, market trends, threats, and opportunities.

Another advantage of a business plan is the opportunity to set a budget aside for investing in important things that will contribute to your company’s growth. 

For example, investing in commission-free catering software like HoneyCart helps you manage your catering operations without hiring more staff.

This levels the playing field for small business caterers, helps you save cost, and generate more revenue. Just as Abbey Duke, founder of SugarSnap Catering, realized when she switched to HoneyCart. 

It automates mundane tasks to allow us to use our time as efficiently as possible. HoneyCart truly enables small caterers to compete with larger companies by having a really professional and easy-to-use online ordering system.

Want to see how it works?

Start your 14-day free trial right away.

Submit your response Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Email address

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Catering Business Plan: 10 Elements of a Complete Plan

A catering business plan will take your catering business from a great idea to a profitable business. Writing a catering business plan is similar to writing a restaurant business plan . It’s a combination of what you need, what you have, and what you plan to do. 

Of course, the specifics are more in-depth when you consider your catering business ideas . In this BinWise blog post, we walk you through those specifics. 

We cover your executive summary, your need for a comprehensive equipment list for types of catering events , and your budget and financial plans. A catering business plan is your starting point for how to start a catering business . 

How to Write a Catering Business Plan

The process of how to write a catering business plan includes general business plan needs like the executive summary, market analysis, and financial projections. It also includes catering-specific sections like the equipment list and liability insurance. It might even have a type of restaurant risk assessment.

These 10 elements of a complete catering business plan will give you the structure to craft a well-rounded plan. They’ll also give you a jumping-off point once you take your business from a plan into the actionable stages.

10. Executive Summary

Your executive summary is the part of your business plan that grabs your reader and gets them invested. The summary includes a brief overview of your business plan, the problem you're solving, your target audience, and the key financial information. In other words, the executive summary includes the highlights of the rest of your business plan.

9. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your catering business plan is an in-depth analysis of the market of the catering industry. It needs to be thorough for your sake and investors or business advisors.

 A thorough analysis tells you where your business will fit, and how much market room there is. It should include buying patterns, market dynamics, and your competition.

8. Service Specifics

The service specifics for your business plan are all about the unique structure of your catering business. This is where you dive into the particulars of whether you operate on-site, off-site, or a mix of both. 

It’s also the place to define what your business can do. Will you teach cooking classes? Do you host tastings? This is the place to make those decisions in your plan.

7. Actionable Steps

The Actionable steps, or next steps, are the concrete steps you will take in the time following the writing and refining of your business plan. These may include buying the right equipment or starting up your marketing campaign. These are the tangible business plans that will get you started. 

6. Equipment List

The equipment list on your catering business plan can be as extensive or as minimal as you like. It’s okay if it’s a general list of tools and equipment you should have. 

This is also a good place to make a fully fleshed-out list. That list includes specific restaurant equipment , kitchen gadgets, and even things like wait staff uniforms . 

5. Management and Investors

It’s possible that you’ll share your business plan with investors and potential managers. This section may look different depending on who you have already brought on board.

It can be a place where you outline who will be in management and who has already invested. If, however, you’re currently recruiting and searching, it’s a place to show the financial and business information those people would be interested in.

4. Budget and Finances

The budget and finances section of your business plan are crucial. This is where you lay out your existing finances, what you need, and where your money will be spent. It’s also the place to include what kind of profit you need to make in order to have a successful business. 

3. Marketing Plans

The marketing plans in your catering business plan are more fun to write, but equally important. In your marketing plan, start with an overview of your chosen marketing tactics– email marketing , content marketing , business branding , or small business marketing . Then, dive into your first few marketing campaigns to show how your marketing initiatives will work. 

2. Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is important for any business that is selling food. Problems can arise from allergic reactions to food spoilage in the kitchen. Liability insurance helps you rest assured that you won’t be held solely responsible. It can help to be a backup to keep your business running even when issues show up.

1. Permits and Licensing

Permits and licensing for a catering business are of the utmost importance. As a business owner , you’ll need everything from a food handler’s permit to a liquor license . You’ll also need to work these permits and licenses into your budget and keep them up to date. An expired permit is a liability.

"Key Takeaway: The process of how to write a catering business plan includes general business plan needs like the executive summary, market analysis, and financial projections. It also includes catering-specific sections like the equipment list and liability insurance."

Frequently Asked Questions About Catering Business Plans

A catering business plan is a crucial part of building a successful catering business. If you’re nervous about starting a catering business , our answers to these frequently asked questions will help you craft your business plan and prepare to open for business. 

How Do You Write a Catering Business Plan?

To write a catering business plan you start with the 10 elements of a catering business plan outlined in this blog post . For your plan, in particular, you’ll need to consider your business structure, menu types , staffing–including wait staff , and available services. There are so many moving parts of a catering business, and your plan needs to account for all of them.

How Do I Start a Successful Catering Business?

When it comes to starting a successful catering business, there are several steps you can take to set your business up for success. Those steps are:

• Making delicious and unique food
• Putting customer service first in your business
• Practicing your organizational skills to keep events running smoothly
• Having business attire guidelines, to keep you and your staff looking uniform
• Putting health and cleanliness at the top of your priority list–with the best cleaning supplies
• Balancing your budget for high profits with great service

All that said, there is no guarantee that a business will be successful. We put this disclaimer here to remind you that you can do everything right and still run into roadblocks. However, even with that possibility, you should still plan for success, believing it is a large part of the battle.

What Is the Weakness of Catering?

The main weakness of catering is the need for restaurant-quality equipment in small and often off-site spaces. Even if your business structure involves preparing food and transporting it to the events, you’ll still have some prep to do at the event. 

There’s no guarantee that you’ll have the best equipment at an event, and this can lead to mishaps if you aren’t prepared for it. The best way to prepare is to have as much portable kitchen equipment as possible. That way you can bring what you need. 

How Do I Attract Catering Customers?

There are several ways you can attract catering customers, including:

• Creative marketing practices and initiatives
• Tasting events to draw people in
• Top quality service to build trust
• Menu and pricing flexibility
• Referral rewards

A catering business is based on tasty food, but your clients need to meet you in order to enjoy the culinary experience. Having a creative marketing plan, being dependable, and working with customers to ensure satisfaction will help you build your client base.

Catering Business Plans: Plan Ahead, Cater Later

Writing your catering business plan will get you started on a solid foundation for your business. When you have a clear plan of what you want, what you need, and what you already have, you’re well set up for success. Come back to BinWise once your plan is actionable. BinWise Pro and the BinScan mobile app can help you manage your inventory program .

How to Build a Top-Tier Catering Business Plan

Starting a catering business is one of the best ways to create your own hospitality venture. If you’re going to do this properly, you’ll need to create a solid catering business plan.

Your catering business plan needs to include all the details about your business. This is necessary for getting your business idea off the ground, and ensuring your business operates smoothly and profitably.

To help you put this together, here are some of the most important steps and elements your catering business plan should include.

Catering Business Plan: How to Build a Great Plan

Choose a catering service type.

The first essential step in creating a catering business plan is establishing what type of catering services you will over. In the broadest sense, this can be broken down into on-site or off-site catering services.

On-site catering businesses prepare food at the location and travel with their inventory and equipment. This includes catering for things like weddings, venues, or special events. Off-site catering is when you bring the prepared food to the venue. This is often done by corporate catering companies (like business lunch caterers), or caterers that do private parties.

Refine Your Catering Offering

Once you know what pillar of catering you will focus on, the next step is refining this more specifically.

Will your catering business focus on casual or high-end events? What type of volume can your business handle? What specialties will you focus on?

For example, you could choose to focus on weddings, private parties, canape functions, grazing boards, or more. The more specific you can be about the type of food you will make and the types of events you will cater, the easier it will be to reach the right clients.

Understand the Laws and Regulations

When creating your catering business plan, you need to have a clear idea of any laws or regulations that exist around catering businesses.

Make sure your city, county, or state allows for catering businesses to be run from the location you plan. Ensure your kitchen meets all of the correct health and safety guidelines, and that you apply for any relevant licenses.

The last thing you want is to plan a new catering business, only to realize that you can’t operate in your location.

Research the Market

One of the most important steps in developing a solid catering business plan is performing in-depth market research.

You need to have a strong understanding of the market you plan to operate in if your business is going to be a success. This involves understanding who your target audience is and who your competitors are.

The main reason for performing in-depth market research is to understand how effectively your catering business can enter the market. A successful catering business needs to develop a unique selling proposition (USP), which is what sets the business apart from the competition. This is what will help you attract customers and enhance your marketing efforts.

So, understand what catering business operations exist in your space, understand the demand for your catering services, and establish how your catering business plan will find a space in the market to target.

Establish Your Finances

Starting a catering company can require quite a significant financial investment. Of course, this depends on the type of catering services you offer and the scale at which you plan to operate.

When creating your catering business plan, you’ll need to have a clear understanding of your financial requirements. This involves establishing realistic financial projections for the business.

Understand how much capital the catering business will require to get off the ground. This should include all of your equipment and inventory costs, staffing costs, marketing costs, and any other costs related to getting the business set up.

Then try to establish accurate financial projections. Based on the demand in your market, establish how much revenue you predict to bring in over the first couple of years of operation. Compare this to your operating expenses and overhead costs to establish how profitable you expect the business to be.

Getting this right is essential for understanding how your catering business will manage cash flow and how viable the business plan is.

Determine Your Business Structure

Another crucial part of any catering business plan is figuring out what type of business structure your catering company will take. You could operate as a sole trader, or register as a limited liability company.

Registering the company separates your business entity from yourself as an individual, which adds personal protection in case anything goes wrong with the business. It’s also important to understand the tax and operating implications of different business structures. Choose a structure that makes the most sense for your catering company and operations.

Craft Your Menu

This is one of the most fun and exciting parts of developing your catering business plan.

Once all of the paperwork and legal stuff is out of the way, it’s time to work on what matters most - your food.

This is your product, so it’s essential to have well-planned menus in place. Of course, your menu will likely change with each event based on the function and the client. However, it’s always a good idea to have a few standard menus established that you can show to clients.

Som,e caterers create custom menus for each event while others only work from a pre-set menu they have already established. Some caterers take a combined approach.

When creating your menu, you’ll need to understand the costs and profits involved with each menu item. This is why having the right menu design software in place is so important. Inventory management and recipe costing software can completely transform the way you run your catering business.  

Ensure your menu aligns with what kitchen space and catering equipment you have available. Your menu will also need to make sense for the style of catering you plan to do.

Determine Your Equipment Needs

Once your menu is established, you can establish exactly what catering equipment you will need to make it happen.

This is an important consideration, as your catering equipment needs can vastly impact the startup capital required for your business. Some caterers can operate with basic household kitchen equipment, while either require large-scale industrial kitchens.

Once you’ve figured out what type of equipment you will need, you also need to establish where you will store this all. You may also need to invest in a van or del;ivery vehicle for your catering business.

Establish Your Catering Team

When writing a catering business plan, you’ll need to provide an overview of the people behind the business.

Establish what team members your catering operation will require. This should include an overview of the business’s management team and different roles.

You could start a small-scale catering business as a solopreneur . However, it’s always a good idea to have a plan in place for when your business grows. Eventually, you’ll need some help somewhere down the line.

So, be prepared by planning for the different team members and roles your catering business will require.

Build Relationships With Vendors

As with any kind of food business, your suppliers will play a major role in the quality of your product.

Start to develop relationships with wholesalers and suppliers when planning your catering business. This will help you determine what kind of ingredients are available. It will also help you establish an exact pricing strategy for your menu.

Set up business meetings with various suppliers and ask them for their price lists. Compare different vendors to understand which ones make the most sense for your catering business.

Establish a Marketing Strategy

How will you attract customers to your catering business? Even if you serve the most delicious food, you’ll still need to reach potential customers. Having a great marketing plan is key to achieving this.

Make sure you know who your target market is and why they would choose your catering business over the competition. Come up with a strategic plan to reach these potential customers. This includes knowing what marketing channels you will be active on, what marketing software you will need, and how you will make your catering business visible from day one.

Follow a Catering Business Plan Template

These are some of the most essential steps in creating a catering business plan. However, it’s always a good idea to draft this out professionally with a business plan template.

The template should include sections like an executive summary, a company overview, financial information, and more. Creating this is necessary if you’re going to pitch the business idea to potential investors. It will also give you a more organized framework to follow when putting your catering business together.  

Cover all of these areas, and your catering business plan should include everything you need to effectively develop your business. The more detailed this business plan is, the better, as it will help you overcome challenges and understand every requirement needed for getting your business idea launched.

So, if you want your catering business to be as successful as possible, it all starts with a strong business plan.

Investing in the right catering event management software is also a key consideration. This will help you manage every business process a lot more easily. Try Perfect Venue for free to see how the platform can help you manage top-tier events.

Have thoughts on the article? Feel free to email us at [email protected] - we'd love to hear it!

Learning center series

How to create a profitable catering business plan

• Published on February 8, 2024
• by Patricia Fernandes
• Last updated: 1 month ago

What is a Catering Business Plan?

A catering business plan is a strategic document that outlines the goals, objectives, and strategies of a catering business. It provides a roadmap for success and helps caterers navigate the challenges and opportunities in the industry. Learn how developing a plan for your catering business from the outset can aid in overcoming industry hurdles and driving the company towards sustained success and financial wellbeing.

Importance of a Catering Business Plan

A catering business plan is crucial for profitability due to the following reasons: Explore how templates for catering business plans can be the foundational guide to initiating and expanding a profitable catering venture.

Guides caterers in identifying their target market

Helps analyze the competition

Sets realistic financial goals

Develops effective marketing strategies

Assists in securing funding and attracting investors

Facilitates informed decision-making for increased profits

Benefits of a Catering Business Plan

A well-crafted catering business plan offers several benefits for profitability:

Provides a clear roadmap for success

Helps caterers stay focused on their goals and objectives

Identifies potential challenges and opportunities

Allows for strategic adjustments and adaptations

Enhances financial planning and budgeting

Improves marketing efforts and customer targeting

Increases the likelihood of securing funding and attracting investors

Enables data-driven decision-making for higher profits

Whether you are an aspiring caterer or an established one looking to boost your profits, a well-designed catering business plan is essential. It provides a framework for success, helps in making informed decisions, and increases the chances of profitability in the competitive world of catering. Here you gonna learn how to create a profitable catering business plan. Understand the importance of a strategic plan for your catering enterprise, ensuring that an effectively tailored catering business strategy from the outset can lead to long-term success and financial gains.

Market Research and Analysis for a Successful Catering Business

Market research and analysis play a crucial role in the success of any business, including a catering business. By conducting market research, you can:

Identify your target audience and understand their needs and preferences.

Tailor your services and offerings to meet their demands effectively.

Analyze your competitors and identify your unique selling points.

This information is vital for positioning your catering business in the market and standing out from the competition.

The Importance of Staying Updated on Industry Trends

In the case of Metrobi, market research and analysis can be used to:

Identify potential growth and trends in the catering industry.

Adapt services and offerings to cater to the changing needs of the target audience.

For example, if there is a growing demand for sustainable and ethical food options, incorporating these values into the catering business and marketing them can attract environmentally-conscious customers.

Identifying Untapped Opportunities

Market research can help assess potential market growth and identify untapped opportunities. For instance:

If there is a high demand for catering services in a specific area or for a particular type of event, focusing marketing efforts and resources in that direction can increase chances of success and profitability.

This targeted approach can help businesses make informed strategic choices.

Overall, market research and analysis provide valuable insights that guide the decision-making process and help make informed strategic choices for a catering business. By understanding the target audience, analyzing competitors, and staying updated on industry trends, businesses can position themselves for success in a competitive market. Learn how to adapt and refine your catering business plan to ensure it remains relevant and effective, positioning your company for enduring success in a dynamic market.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

When starting a catering business, it’s crucial to understand the necessary licenses, permits, and certifications required to operate legally. Each city and state may have specific requirements, so it’s essential to research and comply with all local regulations. By obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, you can ensure that your business is operating within the law and avoid any potential fines or penalties. Before diving into the catering industry, ensure your success by crafting a detailed plan for your catering business , focusing on legal compliance, operational strategies, and avoiding common oversight.

In addition to licenses and permits, complying with health and safety regulations is essential in the catering industry. This includes proper food handling and preparation guidelines to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the safety of your customers. Implementing strict hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, maintaining clean and sanitized workspaces, and proper food storage, is crucial to maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.

Adhering to food handling and preparation guidelines not only ensures the health and safety of your customers but also helps build trust and credibility for your business. Customers are more likely to choose a catering service that prioritizes safety and follows industry standards. By investing time and effort into understanding and implementing these guidelines, you can differentiate your business and provide peace of mind to your customers.

Overall, legal and regulatory considerations are vital for the success and sustainability of a catering business. By understanding and complying with the necessary licenses, permits, and certifications, as well as health and safety regulations, you can establish a solid foundation for your business. This will not only ensure that you are operating legally but also help build trust and credibility with your customers.

Developing a Strong Brand Identity and Reputation

Developing a strong brand identity and reputation is crucial for any business, and the catering industry is no exception. In order to stand out in a competitive market, caterers need to establish a unique brand identity and position themselves as experts in their field. This can be achieved through consistent messaging, visually appealing branding, and a strong online presence.

Delivering High-Quality Food and Service

One way to build a strong brand identity is by consistently delivering high-quality food and service. This means ensuring that every order is prepared with care and attention to detail, and that it arrives at the customer’s location on time and in perfect condition. By consistently providing exceptional service, caterers can establish a positive reputation among their customers and earn their trust and loyalty.

Leveraging Customer Testimonials and Reviews

Another effective way to build a strong brand and reputation is by leveraging customer testimonials and reviews. Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers can serve as powerful social proof and help attract new customers. Caterers can encourage their customers to leave reviews and testimonials by offering incentives or simply by providing exceptional service that exceeds their customers’ expectations.

Partnering with Metrobi

Metrobi, with its focus on efficiency and dependability, can be a valuable partner in helping caterers build their brand and reputation. With a large pool of highly rated local delivery drivers, Metrobi can ensure that food is delivered promptly and in the best condition. Additionally, Metrobi offers a free delivery management software with features like route optimization and real-time tracking, which can further enhance a caterer’s reputation for efficiency and reliability.

Differentiating from Competitors

By developing a strong brand identity, establishing a positive reputation, and leveraging customer testimonials and reviews, caterers can differentiate themselves from their competitors and attract new customers. Partnering with Metrobi can provide caterers with the tools and resources they need to succeed in the catering industry and build a strong and reputable brand.

Financial Projections and Cost Management

Estimating startup costs and ongoing expenses is a crucial step in creating a profitable catering business plan. It’s important to have a clear understanding of the financial resources required to get your business up and running, as well as the costs you’ll incur on a regular basis. This includes everything from purchasing kitchen equipment and supplies to hiring staff and marketing your services. Before diving into the catering industry, ensure your catering service business plan thoroughly covers startup and operational costs to set a strong foundation for success.

Creating realistic revenue projections is another key aspect of financial planning. By carefully analyzing market trends and competition, you can estimate how much revenue your catering business is likely to generate. It’s important to be conservative in your projections and take into account factors like seasonality and economic fluctuations.

Implementing cost-saving measures and efficient financial management is essential for the long-term success of your catering business. This can include strategies such as negotiating favorable contracts with suppliers, optimizing delivery routes to minimize fuel costs, and implementing effective inventory management systems. By monitoring your expenses closely and making smart financial decisions, you can maximize your profit margins and ensure the financial sustainability of your business.

Metrobi’s range of products and services can greatly support your financial projections and cost management efforts. With their local delivery driver network, you can rely on experienced drivers to handle your catering deliveries efficiently and cost-effectively. Additionally, Metrobi’s free delivery management software provides valuable features such as route optimization and real-time tracking, which can help you streamline your operations and reduce costs.

In summary, estimating startup costs, creating realistic revenue projections, and implementing cost-saving measures are essential components of a successful catering business plan. By carefully planning your finances and leveraging the tools and services offered by Metrobi, you can set your catering business up for long-term profitability and growth. Learn how adapting and evolving your catering business plan can position your company for strategic development, efficient cost management, and enduring success.

Marketing and Promotion Strategies

In order to succeed in the competitive catering industry, it is crucial for businesses to have effective marketing and promotion strategies in place. One of the first steps in creating a marketing plan is to identify and reach the target customers. This involves understanding the needs and preferences of the target market and tailoring marketing messages and promotions to appeal to them.

By knowing the target customers, businesses can focus their marketing efforts on the channels and tactics that are most likely to reach and resonate with their audience.

Utilizing Various Marketing Channels and Tactics

Utilizing various marketing channels and tactics is essential for reaching a wide range of potential customers. This can include:

Traditional channels such as print advertisements, radio spots, and direct mail

Digital channels like email marketing, social media, and online advertising

By diversifying their marketing efforts, businesses can increase their reach and visibility among different segments of the market.

Additionally, leveraging social media and online platforms for promotion can be highly effective in reaching and engaging with customers. Social media platforms like Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter provide opportunities for businesses to share enticing photos and videos of their catering offerings, as well as interact with customers through comments and messages. Online platforms like Yelp and Google My Business allow customers to leave reviews and ratings, which can greatly influence the reputation and credibility of a catering business.

Building a Strong Brand Presence

By implementing a well-rounded marketing and promotion strategy, catering businesses can increase their visibility, attract new customers, and build a strong brand presence. It is important for businesses to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of their marketing efforts and make adjustments as needed to ensure they are reaching their target customers and achieving their marketing goals.

With the right marketing and promotion strategies in place, catering businesses can position themselves for success in a competitive market.

Risk Assessment and Mitigation

The catering industry, like any other business, is not without its risks and challenges. It is essential for catering businesses to identify and assess potential risks in order to develop effective strategies for mitigation.

One of the key risks in the catering industry is the possibility of unforeseen circumstances, such as equipment failure, staff shortages, or even natural disasters, that can disrupt operations and impact customer satisfaction.

Contingency Planning

To mitigate these risks, catering businesses should develop contingency plans that outline specific steps to take in the event of different scenarios. Some strategies include:

Backup equipment: Having backup equipment readily available can help mitigate the risk of equipment failure.

Alternative suppliers: Establishing relationships with alternative suppliers can help mitigate the risk of supply chain disruptions.

Cross-training staff: Cross-training staff members and maintaining a pool of reliable temporary staff can help mitigate the risk of staff shortages.

Business Continuity

Implementing strategies to minimize risks and ensure business continuity is another important aspect of risk assessment and mitigation in the catering industry. Some strategies include:

Food safety protocols: Implementing robust food safety protocols can minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Equipment maintenance: Investing in regular equipment maintenance can reduce the risk of breakdowns.

Insurance coverage: Securing appropriate insurance coverage can protect against financial losses in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

By proactively identifying potential risks and developing effective contingency plans, catering businesses can minimize the impact of unforeseen events and ensure the smooth operation of their business. This not only helps protect the reputation and profitability of the business but also ensures that customers continue to receive high-quality catering services, even in challenging circumstances.

Efficient Operations with Metrobi

Efficient operations are crucial for any business, including the catering industry. With the fast-paced nature of catering, streamlining operations is essential for increasing efficiency and ensuring smooth service. Metrobi understands this need and offers a comprehensive solution for catering delivery logistics.

By entrusting delivery logistics to Metrobi’s local courier service, caterers can focus more on crafting unique culinary experiences and growing their business. Metrobi’s delivery management software provides features such as route optimization, live tracking, and proof of delivery, enabling caterers to optimize their inventory management process. This ensures that caterers can monitor their deliveries in real-time and provide precise status updates to their clients.

Effective Inventory Management

Implementing effective inventory management systems is another key aspect of efficient operations. With Metrobi’s delivery management software, caterers can optimize their inventory management process. The software offers features such as route optimization, live tracking, and proof of delivery. This ensures that caterers can monitor their deliveries in real-time and provide precise status updates to their clients. By having better control over their inventory and deliveries, caterers can minimize waste, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.

Exceptional Customer Service

Exceptional customer service is the cornerstone of any successful catering business. Metrobi understands the importance of providing outstanding service to retain clients and generate referrals. With their large pool of local delivery drivers, Metrobi ensures prompt and reliable delivery. Clients can also benefit from Metrobi’s free delivery management software, which includes delivery notifications and a driver mobile app . This enables clients to stay informed about their deliveries and ensures a smooth and transparent delivery experience. By prioritizing customer service, Metrobi helps caterers build strong relationships with their clients and establish a reputation for excellence.

In Conclusion

Efficient operations, effective inventory management, and exceptional customer service are vital for success in the catering industry. Metrobi’s comprehensive solution for catering delivery logistics provides caterers with the tools they need to streamline their operations, optimize inventory management, and provide exceptional service to their clients. By partnering with Metrobi, caterers can focus on what they do best – creating memorable culinary experiences – while leaving the logistics to the experts.

Building a Strong Network

Building a strong network of industry contacts and partnerships is crucial for the success of a catering business. By establishing connections with other professionals in the industry, caterers can tap into a wide range of resources, including potential clients, suppliers, and even mentorship opportunities.

Metrobi, with its extensive network of local delivery drivers and partnerships, can be a valuable asset in building these connections.

Nurturing Client Relationships

Nurturing client relationships is another key aspect of running a profitable catering business. Repeat business is often the lifeblood of the industry, and by providing exceptional service and maintaining open lines of communication with clients, caterers can increase customer loyalty and generate a steady stream of revenue.

Metrobi’s focus on efficiency and dependability in their delivery services can help caterers ensure prompt and accurate deliveries, leading to satisfied clients and positive reviews.

Integrating Online Delivery Platforms

Integrating online delivery platforms is becoming increasingly important for catering businesses looking to expand their revenue streams. By leveraging technology, caterers can offer additional delivery options to customers and reach a wider audience.

Metrobi’s free delivery management software, which includes features like route optimization and delivery notifications, can seamlessly integrate with online platforms like Shopify, enabling caterers to efficiently manage their deliveries and provide a seamless customer experience.

In summary, networking, client relationships, and online delivery integration are all critical factors in the success of a catering business. By leveraging Metrobi’s extensive network and services, caterers can streamline their operations, attract and retain clients, and ultimately grow their business.

Sustainability Practices for Long-term Profitability

Incorporating sustainable practices in food sourcing and waste management is becoming increasingly important for businesses in the catering industry. By sourcing local, organic ingredients, caterers can not only support local farmers but also reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing transportation. Additionally, implementing effective waste management strategies such as composting and recycling can significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. This not only benefits the environment but also provides cost savings by reducing waste disposal fees.

Another sustainability practice that can contribute to long-term profitability is embracing eco-friendly packaging and energy-efficient operations. Using biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials not only reduces the environmental impact but also sends a positive message to environmentally conscious clients. Energy-efficient operations, such as using energy-saving appliances and implementing smart lighting systems, can lead to significant cost savings in the long run. Moreover, by showcasing these practices to clients, caterers can attract environmentally conscious customers who value sustainability.

Communicating sustainability initiatives is crucial for attracting environmentally conscious clients. Many consumers today actively seek out businesses that align with their values and prioritize sustainability. By effectively communicating sustainability initiatives through marketing materials, websites, and social media, caterers can showcase their commitment to the environment and attract clients who share the same values. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

In conclusion , incorporating sustainable practices in food sourcing and waste management, embracing eco-friendly packaging and energy-efficient operations, and effectively communicating sustainability initiatives are essential for long-term profitability in the catering industry. By adopting these practices, caterers can not only reduce their environmental impact but also attract environmentally conscious clients who value sustainability. This can result in increased customer loyalty, positive word-of-mouth referrals, and ultimately, long-term profitability.

Additional Information

Metrobi offers a range of additional benefits and services that make it an attractive option for local businesses. One of the key advantages is its large pool of local delivery drivers, all of whom are rated by other local businesses. With an average driver rating of 4.97/5 , businesses can have confidence in the professionalism and reliability of Metrobi’s drivers.

In addition to the quality of its drivers, Metrobi also offers some enticing incentives for new customers. The first delivery is completely free, allowing local businesses to try out the service without any strings attached. This is a great opportunity for businesses to experience the convenience and efficiency of Metrobi’s delivery service firsthand.

To further support businesses in their delivery needs, Metrobi provides a free delivery management software. This software offers a range of features including:

Route optimization

Delivery notifications

Proof of delivery

Driver mobile app

These tools help businesses streamline their delivery operations, ensuring that deliveries are made efficiently and accurately. With route optimization, businesses can minimize travel time and reduce fuel costs. Delivery notifications keep customers informed and engaged throughout the delivery process, while proof of delivery provides accountability and peace of mind. The driver mobile app eliminates the need for pen and paper, making it easier for drivers to navigate their routes and complete deliveries.

Overall, Metrobi’s additional services and benefits make it a valuable partner for local businesses. From its highly rated delivery drivers to the free delivery management software, Metrobi offers the tools and support businesses need to optimize their delivery operations and provide exceptional service to their customers.

A Comprehensive Solution for Catering Businesses

A profitable catering business requires efficient logistics and reliable delivery services. Metrobi offers a comprehensive solution for catering businesses, taking care of all the delivery needs. Their local delivery service ensures prompt and dependable delivery, saving costs on maintaining a delivery fleet. With a large pool of highly rated drivers and temperature-controlled vehicles, Metrobi ensures that food arrives in the best condition.

Efficient Delivery Management Software

Metrobi’s delivery management software further enhances efficiency with features like route optimization, live tracking, and proof of delivery. This software integrates seamlessly with platforms like Shopify, allowing businesses to manage their deliveries and access on-demand drivers. The software also provides real-time delivery notifications, keeping customers informed and engaged throughout the process.

Explore Metrobi’s Range of Products and Services

To explore Metrobi’s range of products and services for food producers and to gain further insights into building a profitable catering business plan, visit Metrobi’s website and blog. Metrobi offers innovative solutions and consulting services that can help enhance your catering business and drive profitability. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to streamline your delivery logistics and focus on what you do best – crafting unique culinary experiences.

“Efficiency and dependability are key in the fast-paced world of catering, and a local delivery service can provide that.” – Metrobi

Visit Metrobi’s Website and Blog for more information.

Why you must have a solid catering business plan

How will your catering business plan evolve as you grow your catering business

10 free catering business plan templates and examples

‟Thanks to Metrobi we powered our consumer deliveries and started wholesale deliveries”

Dorchester Brewing Company

‟If I did not have a reliable delivery service, my business would not be able to continue.”

Fleurs to You

‟I am able to do twice as many orders because I don't spend time delivering”

‟It was just invaluable for us to be able to just hand off the delivery process”

Smart Lunches

Success Stories

Anna’s Taqueria

Wicked Bagel

Flamingo Estate

Diamond Bakery

LuNo Culinary

DELIVER WITH METROBI

Grow with confidence

• 55 Court St floor 2, Boston, MA 02108
• [email protected]
• Team Metrobi
• Privacy policy
• Terms of service
• Write for us

Refer us to a company, you earn $250 and they earn $250. Learn more

• Shopify Delivery Planner App
• Delivery Management Software
• Atlanta courier service
• Boston courier service
• Chicago courier service
• Denver courier service
• Miami courier service
• New York City courier service
• Los Angeles courier service
• Philadelphia courier service
• San Francisco courier service
• Washington DC courier service
• See all locations
• Bulk Order Delivery Service
• Express Urgent Delivery Service
• Fixed Route Delivery Service
• On Demand Delivery Service
• Overnight Delivery Service
• Same Day Delivery Service
• Scheduled Delivery Service
• Wholesale Delivery Service
• See all delivery services
• Metrobi vs. Onfleet
• Metrobi vs. Roadie
• Metrobi vs. Roadie Support
• Artisan Food
• Food Producers

Want to access our large pool of drivers?

We started Metrobi to take operations off your plate. We provide drivers (rated 4.97/5), dedicated operation managers (70% cheaper), and routing software with a receiver notification system.

Opportunity

Integrations

Request a Demo

Revolution Demo Request

Catering Business Plan: How to Make a Catering Business Plan

Starting a catering business can be an incredibly rewarding venture, but it also requires careful planning and organization to ensure success. The key to a thriving catering company is a well-constructed catering business plan, outlining everything from your financial goals to your unique selling points. This comprehensive document serves as a roadmap to guide you through the process of starting and running your catering business, providing clarity and direction every step of the way.

In this blog post, we will walk you through the essential steps for creating a catering business plan, ensuring you have a solid foundation for your catering enterprise. From developing a menu that sets you apart from the competition to crafting a marketing strategy that gets your name in front of the right audience, our guide will help you turn your passion for food and service into a successful catering business. So, let's dive in and start building the blueprint for your catering success!

Catering Business Plan

A catering business plan is a comprehensive document that outlines an upcoming catering venture's operational, financial, and marketing goals. It includes detailed plans for managing sales and expenses, a marketing strategy, customer service policies, and other important business components. The plan serves as a roadmap for starting and running a successful catering business.

How to Make a Catering Business Plan

A catering business plan should be comprehensive and cover all the key aspects of your business, from your target market and competition to your financial projections and marketing strategy. Here are the steps to help you create a catering business plan:

1. Write an Executive Summary

The executive summary should be a brief introduction to your catering business plan. It should summarize your company's goals, target market, financial projections, and unique selling points of your services. Keep it concise and compelling, as this section is often the first part investors or lenders will read.

2. Create a Company Overview

In the company overview section, describe your catering business in detail. Include your company name, restaurant mission statement , business structure, legal status, and ownership. This section should also provide a high-level view of your catering services and target market.

3. Develop Services and Menu Offerings

Provide a detailed description of the services you offer, including catering for weddings, corporate events, or private parties. Outline the types of cuisine you specialize in and provide a sample menu. Include any additional services your business provides, such as event planning, restaurant equipment rental, or wait staff . Discuss your pricing strategy and outline any special packages offered.

4. Design Branded Graphics

Create a consistent and professional visual identity for your catering business by designing branded graphics tailored for restaurant branding . This includes designing a logo, choosing color schemes, and selecting typography that reflects your brand's personality. These visual elements will be used on your website, social media, promotional materials, and other marketing channels to create a cohesive brand image specifically designed for the restaurant catering industry.

5. Conduct an Industry Analysis

Research the catering industry and identify trends, challenges, and opportunities. Analyze your target market and industry competition to understand your business's unique value proposition for restaurants . This analysis should also help you determine the most profitable catering services and event types.

6. Conduct a Customer Analysis

Understand your target customer base, including their demographics, preferences, and needs. This information will help you tailor your catering services and marketing strategy to effectively meet your customers' needs.

7. Analyze Your Competition

Identify your direct and indirect competitors and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Analyze how your business can differentiate itself and establish a competitive advantage in the market.

8. Develop a Marketing Plan

Outline your marketing strategy, including advertising, social media, website, public relations, and partnerships. Describe your target audience, key messages, and tactics you will use to reach your customers and achieve your business objectives.

9. Create a Business Operations/Operations Plan

Outline how you will manage your catering business's day-to-day operations. Include information on your equipment, kitchen facilities, staff, inventory management , and food safety practices.

10. Build Your Team and Management Structure

Introduce your management team, their roles, and their relevant experience. Include any advisory board members or mentors. Describe your company's organizational structure and how it supports the execution of your business plan.

11. Forecast Your Sales and Operating Expenses

Provide sales projections for your catering business, including a breakdown of revenue streams and potential growth areas. Estimate your operating expenses , such as rent, utilities, labor, marketing, and supplies.

12. Create a Financial Plan

Include financial statements such as profit and loss, cash flow, and balance sheets. Develop a break even analysis to show when your business is expected to become profitable. Include any funding requirements and a plan for how you will secure capital.

13. Prepare an Appendix

Include any relevant supporting documents or additional information, such as licenses, permits, contracts, or legal documents that may be helpful to readers. Use this section to offer context and support for the data and claims presented in your business plan.

By following these steps, you can create a comprehensive and effective catering business plan that sets you up for success. Remember to review and update your plan regularly to adapt to changes in the market and your business's growth.

Catering Business Plan Example

Here is an example of how a catering business plan might look like:

I. Executive Summary

Our catering business, 123xyz Catering, aims to provide exceptional culinary experiences for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large corporate functions. With our talented culinary team, diverse menu offerings, and focus on local and sustainable ingredients, we will quickly establish ourselves as a premier catering service in the industry. Our comprehensive business plan outlines our goals and strategies for success, highlighting our dedication to quality, customer satisfaction , and sustainability.

II. Company Overview

123xyz Catering is a full-service catering company based in [City, State]. Our mission is to create unforgettable events by exceeding our client’s expectations with innovative cuisine, exceptional service, and creative presentation. Our team of experienced chefs, event planners, and service staff work together to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for our clients and their guests.

III. Services and Menu

Our services include event planning, custom menu creation, and on-site food preparation and service for various events, such as weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. We offer diverse menu options, including appetizers, entrées, desserts , and beverages. Our cuisine ranges from traditional to exotic, focusing on incorporating fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. We also accommodate special dietary needs and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

IV. Branded Graphics

Our branding strategy emphasizes clean, modern design elements that convey our commitment to quality and innovation. We will invest in professional graphic design services to create a logo, website, and marketing materials that reflect our brand's values and style. Our visual identity will be consistent across all platforms, reinforcing our reputation as a reliable and sophisticated catering service.

V. Industry Analysis

The catering industry is expected to grow steadily, driven by increasing demand for high-quality food services at events and a growing emphasis on unique, memorable experiences. Our market research has identified several trends shaping the industry, such as increasing demand for sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients, as well as a growing interest in diverse and international cuisines. 123xyz Catering is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends and differentiate ourselves from competitors.

VI. Customer Analysis

Our target customers include corporate clients, private individuals, and non-profit organizations hosting events that require catering services. We will focus on serving clients in [City, State] and surrounding areas, with the potential to expand our reach as we grow. We will target customers who value high-quality, unique culinary experiences and are willing to pay a premium for our services.

VII. Competitive Analysis

We have identified several local catering companies as our primary competitors. Through our research, we have determined that we can differentiate ourselves by offering a more diverse and innovative menu, emphasizing sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients, and providing exceptional customer service. Our competitive analysis will guide our marketing strategies and help us position ourselves as a top choice for event catering services.

VIII. Marketing Plan

Our marketing strategy includes online and offline initiatives to generate brand awareness and attract new clients. Key components of our marketing plan include:

• A user-friendly, professionally-designed website that showcases our menu and services
• Active engagement on social media platforms, sharing photos and stories from our events
• Networking within the local event planning community, establishing Attending local food and business expos to showcase our offerings and generate leads
• Offering special promotions and incentives to attract first-time clients and encourage repeat business

IX. Business Operations/Operations Plan

Our operations plan outlines the infrastructure and resources necessary to support our catering services. Key elements of our operations plan include:

• Securing a commercial kitchen space equipped with the necessary tools and equipment
• Developing relationships with local suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of fresh, high-quality ingredients
• Implementing a streamlined booking and event management system to handle client inquiries and scheduling efficiently
• Establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food preparation, presentation, and service to ensure consistency and quality across all events
• Implementing robust food safety and sanitation protocols to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and compliance with local health regulations

X. Team and Management

Our team consists of passionate and experienced professionals, each bringing unique skills and expertise to the company. Key team members include:

• Founder and CEO: A seasoned entrepreneur with extensive experience in the catering and hospitality industry
• Executive Chef : A talented culinary expert with a diverse background in various cuisines and a commitment to innovation and sustainability
• Event Planner: A detail-oriented professional with experience in coordinating and executing events of various sizes and styles
• Service Staff: A team of dedicated servers and bartenders trained in providing exceptional customer service and ensuring a seamless event experience

XI. Sales Forecasts and Operating Expenses

Our sales forecast projects steady revenue growth as we establish our reputation and expand our client base. We expect to reach profitability within the first two years of operation. Operating expenses will include costs for food and beverage supplies, kitchen equipment and maintenance, labor, marketing, and general administrative expenses. We will continually monitor and adjust our financial projections as needed to ensure the business's long-term success.

XII. Financial Plan

Our financial plan outlines the necessary investments and financial management strategies to support our business operations and growth. Key elements of our financial plan include:

• Startup costs, including kitchen equipment, initial inventory, and marketing expenses
• A comprehensive pricing strategy that takes into account food and labor cost s, as well as competitive market rates
• Detailed financial projections, including income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets
• A break-even analysis to determine when our business will become profitable
• Contingency plans for managing potential financial risks and challenges

XIII. Appendix

The appendix contains additional information and resources to support the main sections of our business plan. This may include:

• Resumes and biographies of key team members
• Sample menus and photographs of our culinary creations
• Testimonials and case studies from previous clients
• Copies of relevant licenses, certifications, and insurance policies
• Market research data and industry reports
• Detailed financial projections and assumptions

In conclusion, 123xyz Catering is poised to make a lasting impact in the catering industry. With our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, we will provide an exceptional culinary experience for our clients and their guests, setting the stage for long-term success and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Catering Business Plan

Starting a catering business requires careful planning and preparation. To ensure success, it is important to create a comprehensive business plan that outlines the goals and objectives of your venture, as well as how you intend to reach them. This section will answer frequently asked questions about creating a catering business plan, from what should be included to how profitable the industry can be.

What Is Included In a Catering Business?

A catering business typically includes event planning, menu creation, and food preparation. Depending on the size of the catering service, these services can also include staffing, equipment rental, and event coordination. Some catering businesses may also offer beverage services and party rentals.

How Profitable Is a Catering Business?

A catering business's profitability heavily depends on several factors, including the quality of food, efficient marketing strategies, and operational costs. Catering businesses can enjoy generous profit margins, depending on how well they manage their operations. 

To maximize profits, caterers must ensure that their food is of high quality, that they have an effective marketing strategy to reach potential customers and keep existing customers coming back, and that their operational costs are kept as low as possible. By doing these things, catering businesses can enjoy lucrative profits and remain competitive in the market.

Why Do You Need a Business Plan?

Writing a business plan is essential for any business. It provides direction and clarity, helps to focus resources and efforts, and provides a framework for decision-making. A business plan helps you determine a business idea's viability, set goals and objectives, identify potential risks and opportunities, and manage the resources you have available. It is also essential for securing financing, as it provides potential investors and lenders with an understanding of your business.

Start Your Catering Plan Today

Creating a catering business plan is an essential step towards starting a successful catering business. It is a detailed roadmap that outlines your business objectives, marketing strategies, financial projections, and operational plans.

By following the steps outlined above, you can create a comprehensive and effective plan that sets you up for success. Remember, your catering business plan is a living document that should be reviewed and updated regularly to adapt to changes in the market and your business's growth. Start your catering plan today and take the first step towards making your catering dream a reality.

Item added to your cart

Here is a free business plan sample for a catering company.

Have you been toying with the idea of launching a catering business but feel overwhelmed about where to start?

Look no further, as we're about to guide you through a comprehensive business plan tailored for the catering industry.

Creating a solid business plan is a crucial step for any aspiring entrepreneur. It serves as a roadmap, outlining your vision, objectives, and the strategies you'll employ to turn your catering dreams into a thriving reality.

To streamline your planning process and get you started on the right foot, feel free to utilize our catering business plan template. Our team of professionals is also on standby to provide a free review and fine-tuning of your plan.

How to draft a great business plan for your catering company?

A good business plan for a catering business must be tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of the catering industry.

Initially, it's important to provide a comprehensive overview of the catering market. This should include current statistics and an analysis of emerging trends, similar to what we've outlined in our catering business plan template .

Your business plan should articulate your vision clearly, define your target market (such as weddings, corporate events, private parties), and establish your catering company's distinctive approach (gourmet, budget-friendly, ethnic cuisines, etc.).

Market analysis is a critical component. You'll need to thoroughly research local competitors, understand industry trends, and identify the preferences of potential clients.

For a catering business, it's imperative to detail your menu offerings. Describe your range of cuisines, menu flexibility for dietary restrictions, and how your selections cater to the tastes and needs of your intended clientele.

The operational plan is vital and should cover the logistics of your catering operations. This includes the location of your kitchen, the layout for food preparation and storage, supplier relationships for ingredients, and the logistics of transporting food to event venues.

Quality control is paramount in catering. Your plan should highlight your commitment to food quality, preparation standards, and adherence to health and safety regulations.

Marketing and sales strategies must be addressed. How will you build a client base and foster repeat business? Discuss promotional tactics, networking strategies, and customer service excellence.

Incorporating digital marketing efforts, such as a professional website and active social media engagement, is crucial for modern businesses.

The financial section is a cornerstone of your business plan. It should outline your startup costs, projected revenue, operating expenses, and the point at which you expect to turn a profit.

Catering businesses often deal with fluctuating costs and varying client demands, making financial planning especially important. To assist with this, consider using our financial forecast for a catering business .

Compared to other business plans, a catering business plan must address specific factors such as menu diversity, event-specific logistics, staffing for different types of events, and the scalability of services.

A comprehensive business plan is a tool for clarifying your strategy and attracting investment or loans.

Investors and lenders will look for a thorough market analysis, sound financial projections, and a clear plan for managing the complexities of catering operations.

By presenting a detailed and substantiated business plan, you showcase your professionalism and dedication to the success of your catering enterprise.

To streamline the planning process and ensure you cover all necessary elements, you can start with our catering business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a catering company

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a catering .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market overview and potential.

The catering industry is an essential segment of the food services market, offering vast opportunities for growth and innovation.

As of recent estimates, the global catering market size is valued at several billion dollars, with expectations for continued expansion. This growth is driven by an increase in corporate events, social gatherings, and a general preference for professionally prepared meals for various occasions.

In the United States, the catering industry contributes significantly to the economy, with thousands of catering companies operating across the country, generating substantial revenue annually.

This data underscores the pivotal role that catering services play in the food industry and highlights the potential for new entrants to make their mark.

Industry Trends

The catering industry is experiencing a shift towards more personalized and health-conscious dining experiences.

There is a rising demand for organic, non-GMO, and locally sourced ingredients, as clients are more aware of the health and environmental impacts of their food choices.

Customization is becoming increasingly important, with clients seeking unique and tailored menus to suit dietary restrictions and personal preferences, such as gluten-free, keto, or vegan diets.

Technology is also playing a role in transforming the catering business, with online ordering systems and event management software streamlining operations and enhancing customer engagement.

Sustainability practices are being integrated into catering operations, from reducing food waste to using eco-friendly packaging and utensils.

These trends are shaping the future of catering, as providers adapt to the evolving demands of modern consumers and event planners.

Key Success Factors

Several factors contribute to the success of a catering business.

High-quality food that is both delicious and presented elegantly is fundamental to a caterer's reputation and client satisfaction.

Versatility in menu offerings allows a catering service to accommodate a wide range of events and dietary needs, enhancing its marketability.

Strategic partnerships with event planners, venues, and suppliers can lead to a steady stream of business and opportunities for growth.

Exceptional customer service, including clear communication and the ability to execute events flawlessly, is critical for building trust and repeat business.

Efficient operations, including cost control, inventory management, and staff training, ensure that the business runs smoothly and profitably.

Adapting to industry trends, such as incorporating sustainable practices and leveraging technology, will position a catering company as a forward-thinking and competitive player in the market.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our gluten-free catering service is designed to cater to the increasing number of individuals with gluten sensitivities, celiac disease, or those who prefer a gluten-free lifestyle. Strategically positioned to serve both private events and corporate functions, our catering service will provide a diverse menu of gluten-free options, including appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts, all crafted with premium, certified gluten-free ingredients.

We emphasize the flavor, presentation, and nutritional value of our dishes to ensure a delightful and satisfying dining experience for all our clients.

Our catering business is poised to set the standard for gluten-free dining experiences, enhancing the lives of our clients by accommodating their dietary needs without compromising on taste or quality.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our gluten-free catering service lies in our dedication to delivering a gourmet dining experience tailored to the gluten-free community. We understand the challenges faced by those with dietary restrictions and are committed to providing a diverse menu that is both safe and delectable.

Our pledge to culinary excellence and dietary safety offers peace of mind and enjoyment to our clients, contributing to their health and satisfaction.

We strive to create a welcoming atmosphere for all guests, regardless of their dietary preferences, and are dedicated to educating our clientele about the advantages of gluten-free dining.

As a leader in gluten-free catering, we aim to be a cornerstone in the community, presenting a viable and appetizing alternative to traditional catering options and enhancing the well-being of our clients.

Project Owner

The project owner is a seasoned professional with a passion for catering and a comprehensive understanding of gluten-free dietary requirements.

Armed with experience in event planning and a background in nutrition, the owner is driven to establish a gluten-free catering service that excels in quality, creativity, and customer service.

With a commitment to education and dietary awareness, the owner is dedicated to offering exquisite gluten-free meals that contribute to the health of clients and the success of their events.

Their dedication to culinary artistry and their zeal for exceptional service are the cornerstones of this venture, aiming to enrich the dining experiences of those in need of reliable and delicious gluten-free options.

The Market Study

Market segments.

The market segments for this gluten-free catering service are diverse and multifaceted.

Primary clients include individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease who require strict gluten-free diets for their health and well-being.

Additionally, there is a growing demographic of health-conscious individuals who opt for gluten-free meals as part of a lifestyle choice or dietary preference.

Corporate clients seeking to accommodate the dietary needs of their employees or guests during events also represent a significant market segment.

Lastly, event planners and hosts who aim to provide inclusive menu options for weddings, parties, and other social gatherings are potential customers for our services.

SWOT Analysis

Conducting a SWOT analysis for the gluten-free catering business highlights several factors.

Strengths include specialized knowledge in gluten-free meal preparation, a commitment to high-quality ingredients, and the ability to offer a diverse menu catering to various dietary needs.

Weaknesses may involve the higher costs associated with sourcing premium gluten-free ingredients and the complexity of ensuring cross-contamination is avoided.

Opportunities can be found in the increasing awareness and demand for gluten-free options, as well as the potential to partner with health professionals who can refer clients with dietary restrictions.

Threats include the growing number of competitors in the gluten-free catering space and the volatility of prices for gluten-free ingredients.

Competitor Analysis

An analysis of competitors within the gluten-free catering industry shows a competitive landscape.

Direct competitors include other catering services that offer gluten-free menus and restaurants with gluten-free takeout options.

These businesses compete on the basis of menu diversity, ingredient quality, price points, and service excellence.

Identifying competitive advantages such as unique menu offerings, exceptional customer service, and strong partnerships with suppliers can help in carving out a niche in the market.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these competitors is crucial for developing strategies to differentiate and build customer loyalty.

Competitive Advantages

Our gluten-free catering service's competitive advantages lie in our unwavering dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.

We offer a wide array of appetizing and nutritious gluten-free dishes, crafted to meet the needs of our diverse clientele without compromising on flavor or presentation.

Our commitment to educating our clients and their guests about the benefits of gluten-free dining, along with our transparent ingredient sourcing, helps to establish trust and loyalty within our customer base.

Moreover, our adaptability to cater to various event sizes and settings gives us the flexibility to provide personalized and memorable experiences for every occasion.

You can also read our articles about: - how to start a catering company: a complete guide - the customer segments of a catering company - the competition study for a catering company

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the gluten-free catering service is designed to establish us as a leader in the industry.

In the first year, we aim to build a strong reputation for our unique gluten-free menus and exceptional service, focusing on corporate events, weddings, and private parties.

The second year will be about expanding our reach by partnering with event planners and venues, and offering our services to a wider array of events and clients.

In the third year, we plan to diversify our offerings with seasonal and culturally diverse gluten-free menus, and to start offering cooking classes and workshops to engage with our community.

We will consistently prioritize the quality of our ingredients, customer service excellence, and innovative menu design to cater to the evolving tastes and dietary needs of our clients.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our gluten-free catering service targets individuals and organizations looking for high-quality, gluten-free food options for their events.

Our value proposition is delivering a memorable dining experience with a diverse range of gluten-free dishes that do not compromise on taste or presentation.

We offer our catering services through direct engagement with clients, as well as through our website and social media platforms, utilizing our skilled chefs and event coordinators as key resources.

Key activities include menu development, event planning, and client consultations.

Our revenue streams are generated from catering events, while our costs are associated with high-quality ingredient procurement, labor, and marketing efforts.

Access a detailed and customizable Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is centered on showcasing the quality and creativity of our gluten-free catering menus.

We plan to engage with our target market through food tasting events, partnerships with gluten-free influencers, and by providing educational content on the benefits of gluten-free diets.

Collaborations with nutritionists and dietitians will help validate our offerings and build trust with potential clients.

We will leverage social media platforms and targeted advertising to increase visibility and attract a diverse clientele interested in healthy, gluten-free options for their events.

Risk Policy

Our risk policy for the gluten-free catering service focuses on mitigating risks associated with food preparation, ingredient sourcing, and event execution.

We will adhere to strict gluten-free protocols and cross-contamination prevention measures to ensure the safety of our clients with gluten sensitivities.

Regular staff training and quality control checks will be implemented to maintain high standards. We will also manage costs effectively to ensure financial stability.

Comprehensive liability insurance will be in place to protect against any unforeseen incidents related to our catering services.

Why Our Project is Viable

We are committed to filling a gap in the market with our gluten-free catering service, addressing the needs of a growing demographic that values health and dietary inclusivity.

With our dedication to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction, we believe our business is well-positioned for success in the competitive catering landscape.

We are enthusiastic about the positive impact our service can have on the well-being of our clients and are ready to adapt to the industry's demands to achieve our vision.

We look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead and the chance to become a trusted name in gluten-free catering.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a catering company - the marketing strategy for a catering company

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a catering and our financial plan for a catering .

Initial expenses for our gluten-free catering business include acquiring commercial kitchen equipment designed for gluten-free meal preparation, adapting the kitchen space to comply with food safety regulations, sourcing certified gluten-free ingredients, specialized staff training for proper handling of gluten-free products, as well as costs associated with branding and initiating targeted marketing campaigns to reach our niche market.

Our revenue projections are based on a thorough market analysis of the demand for gluten-free catering services, taking into account the increasing awareness of dietary restrictions and the preference for high-quality, specialized catering options.

We expect a gradual increase in sales, beginning with conservative estimates and expanding as recognition of our gluten-free catering services grows within the community and beyond.

The projected income statement outlines anticipated revenues from our gluten-free catering events, production costs (ingredients, labor, utilities), and operating expenses (facility lease, marketing, staff wages, etc.).

This leads to a forecasted net profit that is essential for assessing the long-term viability of our catering venture.

The projected balance sheet presents assets unique to our business, such as kitchen equipment, ingredient inventories, and liabilities including loans and projected operational costs.

It provides a snapshot of the financial standing of our gluten-free catering service at the conclusion of each fiscal period.

Our projected cash flow statement details the inflows and outflows of cash, enabling us to predict our financial requirements at any point in time. This will be crucial for maintaining financial stability and preventing cash flow issues.

The projected financing strategy identifies the specific sources of funding we intend to utilize to cover our initial costs.

The working capital requirement for our gluten-free catering business will be diligently tracked to ensure we have sufficient liquidity to support our day-to-day operations, which includes ingredient purchases, inventory control, and payroll.

The break-even analysis for our venture will determine the volume of catering events needed to offset all our costs, including the initial investments, and to begin generating profits.

It will signal the point at which our business becomes financially sustainable.

Key performance indicators we will monitor include the profit margin on our gluten-free catering services, the current ratio to evaluate our ability to meet short-term liabilities, and the return on investment to gauge the efficiency of the capital we have deployed into the business.

These metrics will assist us in assessing the financial health and overall success of our gluten-free catering enterprise.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a catering company .

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Sample Catering Business Plan

Writing a business plan is a crucial step in starting a catering business. Not only does it provide structure and guidance for the future, but it also helps to create funding opportunities and attract potential investors. For aspiring catering business owners, having access to a sample catering business plan can be especially helpful in providing direction and gaining insight into how to draft their own catering business plan.

Download our Ultimate Catering Business Plan Template

Having a thorough business plan in place is critical for any successful catering venture. It will serve as the foundation for your operations, setting out the goals and objectives that will help guide your decisions and actions. A well-written business plan can give you clarity on realistic financial projections and help you secure financing from lenders or investors. A catering business plan example can be a great resource to draw upon when creating your own plan, making sure that all the key components are included in your document.

The catering business plan sample below will give you an idea of what one should look like. It is not as comprehensive and successful in raising capital for your catering as Growthink’s Ultimate Catering Business Plan Template , but it can help you write a catering business plan of your own.

Catering Business Plan Example – SavorFest Caterers

Table of contents, executive summary, company overview, industry analysis, customer analysis, competitive analysis, marketing plan, operations plan, management team, financial plan.

At SavorFest Caterers, located in the vibrant city of Austin, TX, we are passionately committed to delivering unparalleled catering services that truly distinguish us in a competitive marketplace. Our philosophy revolves around the belief that the essence of a memorable event is not just the quality of food but also the caliber of service provided. To this end, our team is rigorously trained to execute seamless events, complemented by our meticulously prepared dishes that utilize only the finest ingredients. This dedication to excellence ensures a culinary experience that exceeds the expectations of the most discerning guests. Furthermore, our continuous innovation in offering tailored catering solutions allows us to meet the varied needs of our clients, making every event uniquely unforgettable.

Our success hinges on our unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, which has been instrumental in distinguishing SavorFest Caterers within the bustling Austin catering scene. We’ve achieved this through our dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients, our flexibility in customizing our services to meet the diverse needs of our clientele, and our relentless pursuit of excellence in both food and service. These factors, combined with our ability to adapt to any event theme or dietary requirement, position us as the go-to caterers for those seeking an incomparable dining experience.

The catering industry, while competitive, presents substantial opportunities for businesses that can distinguish themselves through exceptional service and culinary innovation. This is particularly true in markets like Austin, TX, where the demand for high-quality catering services is driven by a vibrant cultural scene and a growing economy. Success in this industry demands not just culinary excellence but also the ability to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and dietary needs. Companies that can leverage local ingredients and offer personalized experiences stand a better chance of capturing and retaining a loyal customer base.

Our target customers are diverse, ranging from individuals and families celebrating special occasions to businesses and organizations hosting corporate events. These clients are united by a common desire for high-quality, memorable catering experiences that are tailored to their specific needs. They value creativity, flexibility, and attention to detail, and they are willing to invest in premium services that meet these criteria. Catering to such a varied clientele requires a deep understanding of different dietary preferences and event formats, something we excel in at SavorFest Caterers.

Top Competitors: Gourmet Delights, EliteEats Catering, and Feast & Festivities

Gourmet Delights is known for its traditional gourmet offerings, while EliteEats Catering focuses on corporate events with a modern twist. Feast & Festivities targets weddings and large social gatherings with their extensive buffet options. Our competitive advantage lies in our personalized approach, our commitment to quality and innovation, and our versatility in catering to any event theme or dietary requirement, setting us apart as the preferred choice for a wide range of clients.

Our marketing plan is centered around showcasing our diverse range of products, services, and competitive pricing. We offer a wide selection of menu options that cater to various dietary needs and event types, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate events. Our pricing strategy is designed to offer value to our clients, ensuring they receive the highest quality service and culinary excellence at competitive prices. To promote our services, we leverage a multi-channel approach that includes social media marketing, targeted email campaigns, and strategic partnerships with event planners and venues. Our promotions plan is focused on building brand awareness and driving engagement through special offers, tastings, and participation in local events, which allows us to connect directly with potential customers and showcase our culinary expertise.

Our operations are the backbone of our success, encompassing menu planning, ingredient sourcing, inventory management, and more. We prioritize sourcing high-quality, fresh ingredients locally, supporting the community and ensuring the best taste. Our inventory is meticulously managed to prevent shortages and reduce waste. The order process is streamlined for customer convenience, and our food preparation adheres to strict quality control standards. Compliance with health and safety regulations is paramount, ensuring a safe environment for both staff and customers. We also focus on exceptional customer service and communication, essential for customer satisfaction and retention. Logistics for event catering are carefully coordinated, ensuring timely setup, service, and cleanup. Our marketing efforts and customer relationship management are ongoing, aimed at attracting new customers and fostering loyalty among existing ones. Financial management is handled with diligence, monitoring daily revenues and expenses to maintain healthy cash flow and inform strategic decisions.

Our management team comprises experienced professionals with a passion for catering and event management. Each member brings a unique set of skills and expertise to the table, from culinary arts to business administration and customer service. This diversity in our leadership ensures a comprehensive approach to managing all aspects of the business, from menu development and event planning to marketing and financial management. Together, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and innovation, driving SavorFest Caterers towards continued success and growth.

Welcome to SavorFest Caterers, a fresh and vibrant catering service now gracing the Austin, TX scene. As a local catering business, we pride ourselves on filling a much-needed gap in the market. Until now, the area has seen a lack of high-quality local catering services, a void we’re excited to fill with our unique blend of culinary expertise and passionate service.

At SavorFest Caterers, our offerings are designed with versatility and quality in mind. Our services span the entire spectrum of catering needs, from intimate events to grand celebrations. Clients can look forward to customizable menus that cater to a wide array of dietary preferences and event themes. Beyond exceptional food, our services extend to food delivery and setup, ensuring every event is executed flawlessly. We also provide comprehensive beverage services, complemented by our team of professional staff who are committed to making every occasion memorable.

Rooted in the heart of Austin, TX, SavorFest Caterers is poised to serve the local community and its diverse clientele. Our location not only allows us to be at the center of Austin’s vibrant event scene but also enables us to source fresh ingredients from local suppliers, supporting the community we are a part of.

Our confidence in our success is not unfounded. The founding team brings with it a wealth of experience from running a successful catering business previously. This, combined with our commitment to offering superior catering services and meticulously prepared food and beverages, sets us apart from our competition. Our dedication to excellence in every aspect of our service ensures that SavorFest Caterers stands out as the premier choice for catering in Austin.

Since our inception on January 6, 2024, as a Sole Proprietorship, we’ve hit the ground running. Our accomplishments to date include the creation of a distinctive logo that captures the essence of our brand, the development of our unique company name that resonates with our mission, and securing a prime location that serves as our operating base. These achievements mark the beginning of our journey to becoming a cornerstone of the Austin catering scene.

The Catering industry in the United States is a thriving and lucrative market. According to industry reports, the current size of the market is estimated to be around $60 billion. This indicates a strong demand for catering services and presents significant opportunities for growth and profitability.

Furthermore, the Catering industry is expected to experience steady growth in the coming years. Market research suggests that the industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 4% over the next five years. This growth can be attributed to various factors including increasing consumer spending, rising disposable incomes, and a growing preference for convenience and personalized dining experiences.

These trends in the Catering industry are particularly promising for SavorFest Caterers, a new catering business operating in Austin, TX. As consumers increasingly seek out unique and memorable dining experiences, SavorFest Caterers is well-positioned to capitalize on this demand. With its commitment to delivering exceptional service, innovative menus, and attention to detail, SavorFest Caterers has the potential to carve out a significant market share in the Austin catering scene and establish itself as a go-to choice for customers seeking high-quality catering services.

Below is a description of our target customers and their core needs.

Target Customers

SavorFest Caterers will target local residents eager to add an extraordinary touch to their private gatherings, from intimate family reunions to larger celebratory events. These customers are looking for high-quality, memorable culinary experiences that reflect the unique flavors and spirit of Austin, TX. SavorFest Caterers will tailor its offerings to meet the diverse tastes and dietary preferences of this vibrant community, ensuring every event is a reflection of its host’s distinct style and personality.

Aside from serving local residents, SavorFest Caterers will also cater to the business sector, including corporate events, conferences, and office parties. Austin’s dynamic business environment, characterized by a mix of startups, tech companies, and established firms, presents a lucrative opportunity for SavorFest Caterers. The company will offer customizable menus and flexible service options to accommodate the specific needs and schedules of business clients, aiming to become a trusted partner for companies seeking to enhance their corporate events.

Furthermore, SavorFest Caterers will target the thriving event industry in Austin, including weddings, festivals, and public gatherings. This segment demands exceptional catering services that can handle the scale and specific requirements of such events, from outdoor weddings to large-scale public festivals. SavorFest Caterers will leverage its expertise and creativity to provide standout culinary experiences that contribute to the success and memorability of these events, establishing itself as a go-to caterer for Austin’s event planners and organizers.

Customer Needs

SavorFest Caterers emerges as a beacon of culinary excellence, poised to meet the sophisticated needs of Austin’s residents who desire professional catering services. These discerning clients expect not just meals but culinary experiences that tantalize the taste buds and elevate their events. SavorFest Caterers can fulfill this need by offering a diverse menu that incorporates both local flavors and international cuisines, ensuring a unique dining experience for every occasion.

Moreover, SavorFest Caterers understands the importance of seamless service in event planning. Clients can count on meticulous attention to detail, from the presentation of food to the professionalism of the staff. This reliability ensures that hosts can focus on their guests, confident in the knowledge that all catering aspects are expertly managed. SavorFest Caterers thus not only satisfies the appetite but also contributes to the overall success and ambiance of the event.

In addition to exceptional food and service, SavorFest Caterers recognizes the growing demand for sustainable and health-conscious catering options. By incorporating organic, locally-sourced ingredients and offering a range of dietary accommodations, SavorFest can cater to the diverse preferences and needs of Austin’s residents. This commitment to quality and sustainability further distinguishes SavorFest Caterers as a versatile and conscientious choice for any event, large or small.

WheelsJourney Rentals’s competitors include the following companies:

Alamo Rent A Car offers a range of services including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles for both leisure and business travelers. Their price points vary depending on vehicle type, rental duration, and location but are competitive within the industry. Alamo generates significant revenue from both domestic and international travelers, thanks to its presence in major airports across the United States and in several other countries. Alamo serves a wide customer segment including individual travelers, families, and business professionals. They operate in numerous geographies including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Australia, and South America. A key strength of Alamo is their self-service kiosks that expedite the rental process for customers. However, a potential weakness is their reliance on airport locations, which may limit their reach to local renters who prefer more accessible city or neighborhood locations.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers a broad spectrum of vehicles including cars, trucks, and vans to cater to a variety of customer needs. Their pricing is flexible, with options for daily, weekly, and long-term rentals, often including deals and discounts for certain customer segments. Enterprise boasts substantial revenues, underpinned by a strong brand and extensive network of locations. Enterprise targets a diverse customer base from individual renters to large corporations requiring fleet services. The company has a vast geographical presence, operating not just in the United States but also in Europe, Canada, Asia, and beyond. One of Enterprise’s key strengths is its customer service, often recognized as industry-leading. However, its size and scope can sometimes lead to inconsistencies in service quality across different locations.

Rose Caterings might not have the same level of brand recognition as Alamo or Enterprise but offers competitive products and services in select markets. Their vehicle offerings include standard cars, luxury models, and specialty vehicles. Rose Caterings’ pricing strategy aims to attract budget-conscious consumers with competitive rates and transparent fees. Rose Caterings primarily serves customers in urban and suburban areas, focusing on convenience and personalized service. They operate in a limited geographical area but are looking to expand their presence. A strength of Rose Caterings is their focus on customer satisfaction and local market expertise. However, their limited geographical reach and smaller fleet size compared to larger competitors could be seen as weaknesses.

Competitive Advantages

At SavorFest Caterers, we pride ourselves on offering superior catering services that stand out in the competitive Austin, TX market. Our dedication to excellence is evident in every dish we serve, setting us apart from our competitors. We understand that the key to a memorable event lies not only in the quality of food but also in the service provided. Therefore, we ensure that our team is trained to offer impeccable service, making every event a seamless experience. Our carefully prepared food and beverages reflect our commitment to quality, using only the finest ingredients to create culinary delights that satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Moreover, our competitive advantage extends beyond our exceptional food and service. We are constantly innovating, offering unique and personalized catering solutions to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Whether it’s a small family gathering or a large corporate event, we tailor our services to ensure that each occasion is unforgettable. Our flexibility and attention to detail mean that we can adapt to any theme or dietary requirement, making us the preferred choice for customers seeking a caterer that can truly cater to their specific needs. By choosing SavorFest Caterers, clients can expect not just a meal, but an extraordinary dining experience that will leave a lasting impression on their guests.

Our marketing plan, included below, details our products/services, pricing and promotions plan.

Products and Services

SavorFest Caterers emerges as a beacon of culinary excellence, offering a diverse range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each event. At the heart of their offerings is Catering Services for Events, which stands as a testament to their commitment to delivering unforgettable dining experiences. Clients can expect to engage in a collaborative process, working closely with the SavorFest team to design a menu that perfectly aligns with the theme and expectations of their event. The average cost for these comprehensive catering services starts at $50 per person, ensuring a balance of quality and value.

Understanding the importance of personal touch and customization, SavorFest Caterers introduces Customizable Menus as one of its key services. This offering allows clients to tailor their event’s culinary journey, ensuring that every dish reflects their personal taste and dietary preferences. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering, or intimate dinner party, the ability to customize menus adds a layer of exclusivity and personalization to every occasion. Prices for customizable menus are variable, starting at an additional $10 per person on top of the base catering service cost, depending on the complexity and ingredients required.

With an eye for convenience and efficiency, SavorFest Caterers also provides Food Delivery and Setup services. This offering is designed to ensure that every aspect of the event’s culinary needs is handled with care and professionalism, from the careful delivery of prepared dishes to the meticulous setup at the venue. Clients can expect this service to start at $200, varying with the size and location of the event, providing a hassle-free solution to event planning and execution.

Beverage Services complement the culinary offerings, providing a curated selection of drinks to match the quality and theme of the food served. From artisanal cocktails to fine wines and refreshing non-alcoholic options, SavorFest ensures that every guest finds a beverage that suits their taste. This service is priced starting at $15 per person, offering a range of options to suit various preferences and budgets.

Professional Staffing stands as a cornerstone of SavorFest Caterers’ commitment to excellence. Recognizing that the success of an event often hinges on the quality of service, SavorFest provides skilled and courteous staff for every occasion. Whether it’s chefs, servers, or bartenders, clients can expect professionalism and efficiency, ensuring that every guest’s needs are attended to. The cost for professional staffing starts at $30 per hour per staff member, contributing to a seamless and memorable event experience.

Through these diverse offerings, SavorFest Caterers positions itself as a premier choice for those seeking exceptional catering services in Austin, TX. With a focus on quality, customization, and client satisfaction, they are dedicated to making every event a remarkable culinary journey.

Promotions Plan

WheelsJourney Rentals employs a variety of promotional methods and tactics to attract customers in Dallas, TX. Online marketing stands at the forefront of these efforts, leveraging the power of social media platforms, search engine optimization (SEO), and targeted email campaigns. By engaging potential customers where they spend a significant portion of their time, WheelsJourney Rentals ensures its visibility and relevance in a competitive market.

In addition to online marketing, WheelsJourney Rentals also utilizes traditional advertising methods such as billboards and local radio ads. These mediums offer broad exposure, helping to build brand recognition and trust within the community. Furthermore, partnerships with local businesses and tourism agencies will play a crucial role in cross-promotion, reaching an audience that is already interested in travel and vehicle rental services.

Customer referral programs are another key tactic in WheelsJourney Rentals’ promotional strategy. By incentivizing current customers to refer friends and family, the company taps into the power of word-of-mouth marketing. This not only increases the customer base but also strengthens customer loyalty, as people tend to trust recommendations from people they know.

Loyalty programs will also be implemented to encourage repeat business. These programs reward customers for their continued patronage, offering discounts, special offers, and exclusive benefits. This approach not only fosters a loyal customer base but also differentiates WheelsJourney Rentals from its competitors.

Lastly, attending and sponsoring local events and exhibitions will raise the profile of WheelsJourney Rentals. Participation in such events demonstrates the company’s commitment to the community and allows for direct engagement with potential customers. It provides an excellent opportunity to showcase the range of services and the quality of vehicles offered, creating a lasting impression on event attendees.

By employing these promotional methods and tactics, WheelsJourney Rentals expects to attract a wide range of customers in Dallas, TX. The combination of online and traditional marketing, alongside customer engagement programs, ensures that WheelsJourney Rentals remains competitive and becomes a preferred choice for vehicle rental services.

Our Operations Plan details:

• The key day-to-day processes that our business performs to serve our customers
• The key business milestones that our company expects to accomplish as we grow

Key Operational Processes

To ensure the success of SavorFest Caterers, there are several key day-to-day operational processes that we will perform.

• Constantly update and adapt menus to meet customer preferences and seasonal availability of ingredients.
• Source high-quality, fresh ingredients from local suppliers to ensure the best taste and support the local economy.
• Maintain an accurate inventory of ingredients, supplies, and equipment to avoid shortages or excess.
• Implement a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system to ensure freshness and reduce waste.
• Ensure a seamless order intake process, utilizing online and phone-based systems for customer convenience.
• Confirm orders with customers, including specific details such as date, time, location, and any special requests.
• Prepare dishes according to established recipes and presentation standards to ensure consistency and quality.
• Conduct regular quality control checks throughout the food preparation process.
• Adhere strictly to health and safety regulations to ensure a safe environment for both staff and customers.
• Regularly train staff on the latest health and safety practices and conduct frequent audits.
• Provide excellent customer service, addressing any inquiries or concerns promptly and professionally.
• Maintain open lines of communication with customers before, during, and after events to ensure satisfaction.
• Coordinate logistics for event catering, including transportation of food, equipment, and staff to and from event locations.
• Ensure timely setup, service, and cleanup at events, adhering to the agreed schedule.
• Engage in ongoing marketing efforts to attract new customers and retain existing ones, utilizing social media, email marketing, and word-of-mouth.
• Use CRM tools to manage customer data, feedback, and communication to personalize service and foster loyalty.
• Monitor daily revenues and expenses to manage cash flow effectively.
• Prepare and review financial reports regularly to inform strategic decision-making.

SavorFest Caterers expects to complete the following milestones in the coming months in order to ensure its success:

• Launch Our Catering Business : This is the foundational milestone that involves setting up the operational structure, finalizing the menu, establishing a base kitchen, and initiating marketing campaigns to create awareness in the Austin area.
• Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses : Secure all required local, state, and possibly federal permits and licenses to legally operate a catering business in Austin, TX. This includes health department permits, a food handler’s license, and a business license.
• Build a Robust Vendor Network : Establish relationships with local food suppliers, equipment rental companies, and event venues to ensure quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in service delivery.
• Hire and Train Staff : Recruit a team of chefs, servers, and support staff. Provide comprehensive training on food safety, customer service, and company policies to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Implement an Online Ordering and Management System : Set up a user-friendly online platform for customers to view the menu, place orders, and make payments. This system should also facilitate efficient order management, scheduling, and customer communication.
• Secure First 10 Contracts : Aim to secure contracts for 10 events (could be weddings, corporate events, private parties, etc.) as a proof of concept and to build a portfolio of successful events.
• Achieve Consistent Positive Customer Feedback : Establish a system for collecting and analyzing customer feedback. Aim for high satisfaction rates to build a strong reputation in the Austin catering market.
• Reach $5,000/Month in Revenue : This intermediate financial milestone indicates initial market acceptance and will help in refining the business model towards profitability.
• Form Strategic Partnerships : Establish partnerships with event planners, venues, and other related businesses in Austin to create referral opportunities and expand the customer base.
• Get to $15,000/Month in Revenue : Achieving this milestone within 24 months will indicate strong market demand, operational efficiency, and a path towards long-term sustainability and growth for SavorFest Caterers.

SavorFest Caterers management team, which includes the following members, has the experience and expertise to successfully execute on our business plan:

Noah Wilson, CEO

Noah Wilson brings a wealth of experience to SavorFest Caterers, marked by a proven track record of success in the catering industry. His previous endeavor as the head of a catering business laid the foundation for his deep understanding of the complexities of the catering world, from menu selection and event planning to logistics and customer service. Noah’s leadership is defined by his ability to foresee industry trends, adapt to changing market demands, and inspire his team to strive for excellence. His strategic vision and hands-on experience are crucial assets for SavorFest Caterers, positioning the company for sustained growth and success in a competitive market.

To achieve our growth objectives, we are seeking to raise funds that will be strategically invested in expanding our service offerings, enhancing our marketing efforts, and improving our operational infrastructure. This financial injection will enable us to fulfill our growth potential, capture a larger market share, and ultimately establish SavorFest Caterers as a leader in the catering industry. Our detailed financial plan outlines the required investment and the projected returns, demonstrating our commitment to creating value for our stakeholders while delivering exceptional catering experiences to our clients.

Financial Statements

Balance sheet.

[insert balance sheet]

Income Statement

[insert income statement]

Cash Flow Statement

[insert cash flow statement]

Catering Business Plan Example PDF

Download our Catering Business Plan PDF here. This is a free catering business plan example to help you get started on your own catering plan.  

How to Finish Your Catering Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your catering business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Free Download

Catering Business Plan Template

Download this free catering business plan template, with pre-filled examples, to create your own plan..

Or plan with professional support in LivePlan. Save 50% today

Available formats:

What you get with this template

A complete business plan.

Text and financials are already filled out and ready for you to update.

• SBA-lender approved format

Your plan is formatted the way lenders and investors expect.

Edit to your needs

Download as a Word document and edit your business plan right away.

• Detailed instructions

Features clear and simple instructions from expert business plan writers.

All 100% free. We're here to help you succeed in business, no strings attached.

Get the most out of your business plan example

Follow these tips to quickly develop a working business plan from this sample.

1. Don't worry about finding an exact match

We have over 550 sample business plan templates . So, make sure the plan is a close match, but don't get hung up on the details.

Your business is unique and will differ from any example or template you come across. So, use this example as a starting point and customize it to your needs.

2. Remember it's just an example

Our sample business plans are examples of what one business owner did. That doesn't make them perfect or require you to cram your business idea to fit the plan structure.

Use the information, financials, and formatting for inspiration. It will speed up and guide the plan writing process.

3. Know why you're writing a business plan

To create a plan that fits your needs , you need to know what you intend to do with it.

Are you planning to use your plan to apply for a loan or pitch to investors? Then it's worth following the format from your chosen sample plan to ensure you cover all necessary information.

But, if you don't plan to share your plan with anyone outside of your business—you likely don't need everything.

More business planning resources

How to Start a Business With No Money

10 Qualities of a Good Business Plan

How to Write a Business Plan

Business Plan Template

How to Write a Business Plan for Investors

Simple Business Plan Outline

How to Start a Catering Business

How to Create a Business Plan Presentation

Download your template now

Need to validate your idea, secure funding, or grow your business this template is for you..

• Fill-in-the-blank simplicity
• Expert tips & tricks

We care about your privacy. See our privacy policy .

Not ready to download right now? We'll email you the link so you can download it whenever you're ready.

Download as Docx

Download as PDF

Finish your business plan with confidence

Step-by-step guidance and world-class support from the #1 business planning software

From template to plan in 30 minutes

• Step-by-step guidance
• Crystal clear financials
• Expert advice at your fingertips
• Funding & lender ready formats
• PLUS all the tools to manage & grow

The quickest way to turn a business idea into a business plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

No thanks, I prefer writing 40-page documents.

Discover the world’s #1 plan building software

• About Our Business Plan Service
• Cost of Our Business Plans
• Business Plan Checklist
• Business Plan Cost Calculator
• Hiring a Business Plan Writer
• Business Plan Help
• Our Guarantees
• Common Questions (FAQ)
• Business Plan Outsourcing
• Business Plan for Free (BrainHive Charity Program)
• Business Coach & SME Coach
• Startup Coach & Lean Coach
• Business Plan Coach
• Finance Coach
• Manager & Corporate Coaching
• Success & Life Coach
• Coaching Cost Calculator
• Financial Planning
• Pitch Deck Creation
• Business Prospectus
• Grant Writing
• Feasibility Study
• Business Development Planning
• Pitch Video Creation
• Business Ghostwriting
• Coworking / Coliving / Startup Retreat
• Our Company
• Code of Conduct
• Competences / References
• Volunteering and Internships
• Business Plan Samples
• How To Write a Executive Summary
• How to Write a Market Analysis
• Market Entry Strategy / Marketing Plan
• Auto Repair Shop
• Cleaning Business
• Beauty Salon
• Fashion Label
• Fitness Studio
• Interior Design
• Café / Internet Café
• Online Shop
• Photography
• Physical Therapy
• Restaurant / Bar
• School Business Plan
• Spa Business Plan
• Tech Startup
• Web Design Agency
• United Kingdom
• Personality of Successful Founders
• 23 Tips Advice For Your Loan Interview
• IT-Services Buyers Guide for Founders
• Imprint & Disclaimer
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Catering Business Plan Sample

• 22. June 2016
• BrainHive Know-How Base @en , Business Plan Samples EN

This is an example of a completed turn-around business plan for an already operating non-food catering business. It operates as a franchise/license chain and has been leasing catering equipment and other gastronomic products (like dishes, flatware, glasses, bar constructions etc.) to business and private events for several years. It has several branches in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

The branch in question has been experiencing operative losses. The branch manager is about to retire, and the business unit will be purchased and redeveloped under a new management, the new manager being the founder of the franchise himself. The branch will undergo a redevelopment program consisting of a financial investment as well as a marketing program to reach out to new potential customers. Break-even is expected one year after the launch of this program.

Click this image if you want to order our super useful catering & gastronomy business plan template package for next to no money! ($14,99 US)

Interested in having a selection of full real-life catering and gastronomy business plan templates in MS Word (alongside their respective financials in Excel) for your project? Order our super useful template package directly from us  for a mere $14,99 US! ***

The business plan elaborates on crucial points like the product and service range as well as the operative processes, USP (in this case the already established reputation and prominent clients), vision and strategy – in this context it is worth mentioning that the city of the subsidiary’s location is an established hub of trade fairs and technology, which provides a good basis for reaching the right kind of customers. In addition, special emphasis will be given to the dedication and quality regarding suppliers/potential business partners. Market/economic research provides a positive outlook of the market situation, and the extensive knowledge and business experience of the new Manager constitutes a very positive aspect of the risk analysis.

The financing of a business is an important issue, and even if the facts and numbers as such are already promising: Being able to present an appropriate and convincing business plan to banks and/or potential investors is a prerequisite for obtaining such financing, also for turn-around purposes.

On a side note: A good way to get started quickly, efficiently and professionally is to hire a business plan writer to write your business development plan. At BrainHive, we offer experienced business plan writing services. If you want to know the business plan consulting fees , we can also help you out, being one of the most affordable and yet professional business plan consulting firms in the market. Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime if you want to learn more about us or get an individual quote for your business plan project. It is perhaps also worthwhile to note that we can also help you with your existing business plan , as well as prepare just the financial plan for your business plan . This way, you can rest assured that you will receive a custom-tailored business planning service that fits your exact need at the best price imaginable.

Catering Business Plan Sample Overview

1. Executive Summary 1.1 Business Plan Product and Service Range 1.2 Business Plan Operative Processes 1.3 Business Plan USP 1.4 Business Plan Strategy / Vision 2. Business Plan Market Analysis 2.1 Business Plan Competition 2.2 Business plan target group 2.3 Business plan risks 3. Business Plan SWOT-Analysis 4. Business Plan Location 5. Business plan partner/s 6. Business plan marketing 6.1. Business plan pricing 6.2. Business plan communication strategy 7. Business plan manager 8. Business plan staff 9. Financial Planning 9.1 Business Plan Clarification 9.2 Revenue Source Clarification 9.3 Business plan capital

1. Catering Business Plan Sample: Executive Summary

The [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] is a non-food caterer who has been leasing gastronomic products and catering equipment for events to companies and individuals since XXXX. The company operates as a franchise / license chain and currently has XX branches in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The headquarters are located in the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] Village. The branch in [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city has not generated any operative profit after losing a major client in XXXX. The total loss is approx. XXX.XXX Euro (the company has liquidated XXXX workshop equipment, generating a profit of approximately XX.XXX Euro). The former manager of the Business plan branch is retiring, the branch will be bought and redeveloped as part of an investment program with a new manager. The management is being taken over by Mr. [Business plan], the founder of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] franchise. XXX.XXX Euro will be invested in new returnable packaging and new clients will be reached by means of a marketing program, in particular cold calls. We should be able to break even in the first year after launching the redevelopment program. Achieving this objective is supported by the general market conditions and location factors.

1.1 Business Plan Product and Service Range

Each branch of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] has the full range of necessary products and business equipment to meet the needs at even the most demanding events. A set of service options is offered as part of the order execution, and cleaning used goods is included in the lease cost. It is leased exclusively over a three-day period; an intraday settlement is not possible. There are three basic ranges: standard products, special products and regional products (exotic) with over XX.XXX different individual items. The range is divided into returnable packaging and goods for sale. Returnable packaging includes all durable goods in the areas of catering, furniture and equipment. The typical gastronomy goods are dishes, glasses, flatware, chafing dishes (heatable metal plates) and other serving equipment, tablecloths, slipcovers and catering equipment such as grills or oven stands. Tables and chairs in various designs for different occasions are available, including elegant padded furniture and LED illuminated party lounge cocktail tables. We also have display cabinets, closets, partitions and bar constructions in our product range. The catalog of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] is completed with additional equipment and decorative items such as lottery-wheels, informing tablets, table decorations, art works and electrical accessories such as cable reels.

Sale goods are of low quality, but nonetheless important for a successful event. These products include napkins, candles or cable ties. In addition, the business with ice cubes and crushed ice is very important in this segment. The ice is produced under strict quality requirements with an ice machine in the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] store, packed in polythene plastic bags and delivered in Styrofoam cartons to the client. The product range rests on the founding principles of high quality and pragmatism. The company offers dishes and cutlery produced by a small group of European quality suppliers like Rosenthal or KPM. Pragmatism comes into play when chairs are purchased: these must all be stackable and cannot exceed the maximum weight of xxx kg. Damaged or badly worn goods are removed, discarded and replaced. [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] offers a full range of services to fulfill the ideal event request of a customer. Customers can look at different products in the Sample brand salesroom and make an informed decision. The selection process is competently supervised by Sample brand staff, who in some cases have many years of experience in event catering and support clients in their planning. Clients can opt to transport the leased equipment to the venue themselves or have Sample brand deliver and pick it up. An important part of the leasing agreement is the professional cleaning of the products. This is a standard service for Sample brand and is performed very conscientiously.

1.2 Business Plan  Operative Processes

The typical [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] facility follows a detailed plan to carry out daily activities. The tight organization includes taking orders, processing them and offering logistic support especially with high-quality, fragile goods. The [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city branch has XXX square feet of premises (storage, washing space, office, retail space), two delivery vehicles and a cutting-edge rinsing machine. To simplify the administrative processes, [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] had special software called Leihoffice (Lease Office) designed. This program is a very important part of the success of the sample brand and ensures an optimum overview of the stocks and their borrowing hours at all times. In addition, entries can be made to block damaged goods and keep track of those returned. The ways of packaging and storing the goods are preset. This way the space in the warehouse and in vans is optimally utilized and there are no damages or losses of small products. The criteria to determine whether a given product can remain in the leased range are also well-documented. A very important part of the daily operations of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] is cleaning kitchen utensils, in particular dishes and cutlery. [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] has set very strict requirements. The correct selection and the correct operation of the machines for the gastronomic needs and recommendations for selection of the cleaning agent are defined. Each dish or cutlery item is sealed and a certificate that guarantees the hygienic cleaning of these goods is provided.

1.3 Business Plan USP

The brand’s reputation is the most important USP. The company has built it over its XX-year market presence. It is recommended by countless prominent companies and establishments, such as the delicatessen “XXXXX” or the Chancellery. The trademark brand is protected by law and associated with the “XXXXX of non-food caterers” in the hospitality industry. Careful adherence to the standards in place for franchised licensees is at the core of every [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] operation. This commitment is also reflected in the training of employees and subcontractors, who leave the relevant impression shaping the client’s perception of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.]. The great efficiency of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.], consequent customer satisfaction and capacity for expansion are achieved mainly by the standardization of products and packaging, the software Leihoffice and the correct operation of facilities, in particular the washing process. By following the guidelines set by the parent company the branches enjoy high productivity, while remaining flexible enough for regional adaptations. The founder and business plan manager spent three years planning and preparing the franchise concept and gathered ideas in the US and Canada among other countries. His core beliefs evolved over time in his long career in gastronomy, event catering and the hotel industry. The continuous development of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.’s] expertise will allow the company to remain at the top in the long term. The vast network of well-located branches and well-coordinated exchange between them ensure there will always be enough leased goods. In addition, the branches uphold best-practice guidelines on marketing and operation levels.

1.4 Business Plan  Strategy / Vision

[Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] will continue to delight its well-paying clients in German-speaking countries and regions with perfect services in line with its high-value, pragmatic strategy. New licensees will become part of the network only if they prove they will manage the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] with diligence and zeal. An important objective was addressed to strengthen the communication between the branches in the medium term and affirm the general concept of the company in the increasingly competitive environment. As age is an issue not only in the Sample city branch, but also affects the dynamics of management of individual branches, coordinated cooperation is even more important to ensure adequate drive for growth and development of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] in the long term. A broad investment program is planned for the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city branch, which has two aims: improvement in the product lease capacity and new customer acquisition. The sample city, known as a hub of trade fairs and technology, offers good possibilities to help the faltering branch get back in the black given targeted researching is performed and customers are acquired. The overall vision of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] is to remain a market leader in upscale non-food catering and anchor the brand in the minds of German customers. At present [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] is preparing to open a branch on XXXXX. This way the brand proves to itself expansion on new markets outside of Germany, yet controlled by German companies, is on the horizon of the parent company. The tight organization, flexibility and scalability of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] facility are applicable to many markets. The company’s steady long-term success ensures adequate resources for a profitable future.

2. Catering Business Plan Sample: Business Plan Market Analysis

Countless of data sources were used to assess the market conditions of the Business plan  Sample brand Sample city branch as accurately as possible. The non-food catering segment does not have a central union at this time that is organized enough to provide quality market research. The closest to a central union is the Partyservicebund e.V. (www.partyservicebund.de), which doesn’t have the required capacity and reports to the press that XXXX was a good year, but without specific figures. This is why we retrieved and analyzed national and regional consumer barometer, gastronomy, trade fair industry, event marketing, luxury goods sector and tourism industry data. The overall result of the analysis showed the quality-conscious non-food caterer market situation was indeed good both nationwide and in the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city (see location analysis), but there are numerous market risks due to the global economic crisis, fierce competition (see Competition Analysis) and the shrinking gastronomy industry.

Economic Barometer : Consumer sentiment in Germany is inconsistent as reflected in the GfK report from November XXXX. The economic outlook is improving, but Germans remain unsure in light of the European debt crisis and the declining economy. Despite the downward trends, economic prospects remain stable up until the end of XXXX. The index has improved for the third consecutive time. Germans believe that their income will increase in the future. The stability is due primarily to the positive labor market figures. The high employment reduces the fear of job loss and thus promotes predictability. The consistently moderate inflation serves to encourage consumer spending, which is further stimulated by the weak propensity of German consumers to save because of very low interest rates and uncertainty caused by the European debt crisis. Strong economic growth continues in Lower Saxony based on y/y data of the regional CCI. With real economic growth of X, X%, the pre-crisis levels of XXXX have been reached again. After two years with growth rates of more than X%, Lower Saxony currently enjoys the lowest unemployment rate in XX years. In order to stabilize the rapid economic recovery, the state government has established a policy for growth and employment. In recent years hundreds of millions have been invested in technological capability, for example at the Brunswick Research Airport, in the Lower Saxony Research Centre for Vehicle Technology or the CFK-Valley Stade. The economic development in Lower Saxony is tense but solid in the third quarter of XXXX. Only one of ten companies finds its current business situation poor, but one in four companies is afraid of the prospects in the next year. These assessments, as well as insufficient new orders and falling exports in neighboring countries indicate stagnation on this market in the medium term.

Gastronomy: The gastronomy industry in Germany grew by X,X% in nominal and by X,X% in real value from January to August XXXX y/y according to data of the German Hotel and Catering Association (GHCA). The hotel industry, an important market factor, developed favourably nationwide. Just under XXX million overnight stays (X,X%) were counted in XXXX in establishments with more than nine beds, with Germany taking the first place in Europe. The data for Hessen in the following table show the stagnation in the gastronomy industry (except for the fast food establishments) and the growth of the catering industry (important rows marked red). There are currently XXX.XXX enterprises classified as catering companies nationwide with per annum revenue of X,X billion Euro (GHCA, Year XXXX).

Number of enterprises in the German gastronomy and hotel industry [TABLE REMOVED]

Source: GHCA Hessen and Federal Statistics Office, Income tax statistic XXXX

Trade Fair Economy: Germany is one of the world’s leading trade fair venues. Two-thirds of all international trade fairs in a wide range of industries take place in Germany. In XXXX almost XXX.XXX exhibitors were participating in XXX international trade fairs. That’s just under X% up y/y. In XXXX there was a decrease of X%. Compared to XXXX, the key figures in XXXX rose very significantly (see following graphs). A larger-on-average exhibition stand is a good indicator for the Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd. sample city branch, as the company relies on fairs and major exhibitors have high budgets for high-quality non-food catering.

[GRAPH REMOVED]

Source: AUMA Press release (XXXX)

Event Business: In XXXX the event business is expected to grow and event budgets to regain the levels of XXXX. Event Budgets in Germany

Source: FAMAB Branchenbrief

In XXXX the German concern and event market recovered from the dramatic revenue drop in XXXX. After branch revenues dropped from X,X billion to X,X billion Euro by a total of XX% in XXXX and XXXX compared to XXXX, the peak revenue of XXXX was exceeded in XXXX with the record (almost) X billion Euro. This is why the branch aimed for growth of XX%. The revenue is based on XX,X million visitors, translating to profit of X% (two million consumers).There were a total of XXX,X million visits, almost XX million more than in XXXX.

Source: GfK-Press Release (XXXX)

Tourism: The German tourist industry generally has solid results. Luxury tourism is especially interesting. Well-off Chinese, UAE and Russian tourists are often encountered in German cities. Overnight stays of tourists from China and Hongkong in Germany increased by XX% y/y, while those of Russians increased by XX%. Pro capita spending, especially for shopping, shows a positive tendency. According to the tax free experts of Global Blue there was an increase of shopping expenses of around XX% y/y in XXXX. The luxury hotel segment increased by XX% y/y, the German art market by XX% and private/first class flights by XX%.Lower Saxony is an attractive destination with XX,X million overnight stays in XXXX. Its sea, mountains and nature parks make it the most popular northern province. There are more nature and amusement parks in Lueneburg Heath than anywhere else in Germany. The Zoo Experience Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd. city attained a new attraction in May XXXX – Yukon Bay – and developed into a unique European adventure park and zoo in recent years. The Automobile City of Wolfsburg had approx. X,XX million visitors in XXXX. The most important groups are from Holland, the UK, Denmark and Poland. In summer the industry naturally experiences a boom.

Luxury goods market: The German luxury goods market is growing rapidly and growth is stronger than in all other European countries. Turnover increased by XX% to XX,X billion Euro y/y according to a luxury market survey by Roland Berger Strategy Consultants, ordered by a branch association called the Master Circle German Luxury Forum, which was established in May XXXX. Growth improved substantially upon the previous year (XX%). Germany is a worldwide leader, clearly surpassing the global luxury market growth of about X%. Highest growth was observed with watches (XX%), jewellery (XX%), and fashion and accessories (XX%). The German luxury vehicle market skyrocketed by XX%.Germany’s largest representative consumer survey with XX.XXX interviews per year pointed to a trend towards enhancing personal luxury, which was socially unacceptable just a few years ago, namely the “Typology of Wishes”. In the affluent age group of XX-XX XX% agreed with the statement, “I treat myself to expensive things, luxury makes life beautiful”, which increased in XXXX to around XX%. Another indication of the attitude change is the agreement with the statement, “I like to go to exclusive shops”. Here the agreement increased from XX% in XXXX to XX% in XXXX. Agreement with this statement among boys also increased – by X-X%. A survey of the top management of Master Circle member companies paints a positive picture for XXXX. Most market segments expect a revenue growth between XX and XX%. In order to realize the growth potential, the companies plan an increase of their investments of up to XX% for the expansion of the branch network and additional marketing. The number of employees should increase significantly both in the sales and in the administrative departments. In some cases profit is deliberately avoided to lay a solid foundation for the anticipated growth in the years to come.

Conclusion: The market conditions for the Sample brand are quite positive in light of several factors: solid consumer confidence in spite of the downturn, solid growth of the catering industry despite an overall stagnant gastronomy industry, and very good data from the exhibition industry, the tourism industry and the luxury goods market. However, market distortions are expected in the short or medium term as a result of the ever more threatening world crisis scenario in the long term. Paradoxically, the luxury segment will suffer the least due to the lower price flexibility. This is also the reason why Roland Berger’s experts are so optimistic about the market.

2.1 Business Plan Competition

An almost infinite number of companies with a similar business focus are active in the field of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] The startup will have to invest significant resources in marketing to be able to remain competitive. Recommendations and conventional print marketing will not be sufficient to achieve the desired revenue and expansion in the short term. The quality of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.’s] products and services distinguish it from other brands. Often competitors are unable to meet clients’ demands and deprive themselves of the opportunity to be promoted and to become more recognized through recommendations and positive experiences. Consistently good work, professionalism and credibility are appreciated by customers and can be used to compete effectively. Price-based competition can be risky, especially as many corporate clients have cut their budgets in the crisis. This is exactly what Volkswagen did. It was [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] sample city’s most important client, which is why the company has been operating at a loss in the past three years. There are three classes of competitors, whose activities exert a significant influence on the Sample brand’s business. First, there are the price-aggressive, professional, national non-food caterers such as ProfiMiet (www.profimiet.de) or M. Ferber Party-Miet-Service e.K. (www.party-miet-service.de). Then there are the national party service / catering / cafeteria- operating companies such as Aramark (www.aramark.de), Apetito (www.apetito.de), Dahlmann Ltd. (www.dahlmann-catering.de), Compass Group Deutschland Ltd. (www.compass-group.de),  Mövenpick (www.moevenpick-restaurants.com), Party Rent (www.partyrent.com), Perfect Show Events (www.pseonline.de), Esmeyer (www.cateringequipment.de), Broich Premium Catering (www.broich-catering.com) or MKS Premium Catering (www.mks-catering.de). Finally, there are regional competitors like Event-Mietservice Ltd., [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city (www.eventmietservice-business plan  samplecity.de), Sternzeit Catering (www.sternzeit-catering.de) and restaurant catering services like La Piazzetta (www.la-piazzetta-gehrden.de). There are dozens of skilled, small-scale competitors like this Italian restaurant, which can be seen on www.Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd. city-locations.de. The [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] must compete with all three classes with unique selling points in order to remain on the market long-term. The company should get an edge over its strongest competitors – national non-food caterers – through enhanced market presence and better service quality, taking away high-value customers and ensuring long-term commitment. [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] should compete with standard catering companies and party service providers effectively by offering a wider range of high-quality leased goods. Collaborations using the strengths of similar established companies are a good idea. A good example of this is Business Plan Musterstadtaner provider Music & Light VT ( www.music-and-light.com ), known mainly for party electronics. The smaller regional providers should not be allowed to take away [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.’s] important target group clients through their bespoke product range and greater proximity to customers. The flexibility of the local branches concurrent with a much greater range of services is enhanced by the symbiosis with other [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] facilities in northern Germany. The strong search-engine-optimized portal XXXCatering (www.XXXcatering.de), which has a special luxury non-food catering page, deserves special mention particularly due to the Business plan facility’s location in Sample City. According to the profile the website is a finder tool for local catering providers. The website, which has a significant amount of pure SEO content, actually keeps referencing to the company Wengenroth and Partners (www.wengenroth-and-partner referenced.com /). This is, in fact, a marketing and management consultancy firm based in [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city that specializes in search engine optimization. It is necessary to clarify whether this company would be a good partner or a potentially dangerous competitor given its extremely skillful internet marketing. In the latter case, the company would be a direct niche competitor, since it explicitly targets high-end customers. A broad contact network could be developed through cooperation, by attending industry events, with sponsorship events and by directly contacting promising potential customers. The company will be able to promote sustainable growth of the loyal customer base quickly based on this network of contacts. This way the company can withstand the ever increasing competition, increase the value of its brand and take root regionally and nationally. We can conclude that the status of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] is generally satisfactory in terms of competitiveness. The [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city site will be rehabilitated successfully thanks to the competence of the manager and the planned investments and despite the immense pressure from competitors.

2.2 Business plan target group

[Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] targets high-value clients in the hotel/gastronomy/trade fair industries, both companies and private entities. Revenue is typically derived from these three target groups equally, although there can be location-based deviations. For example, orders from state institutions form the bulk in the Berlin branch. What all of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.’s] clients have in common is the desire for perfect event planning and clean, high-quality leased goods. A big client from the automobile industry played a big role for [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city in the past. There are plans to maintain this contact and acquire more clients in this industry. The following is a list of the biggest companies in the area of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city. Attractive potential clients are framed in red.

Source: CCI Lower Saxony

Another focus of the operations involves attracting customers from the exhibition and event industry. The size and prominence of the exhibition industry in Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd. city and the numerous major local events will certainly help the company make significant progress in obtaining a share of this market.

2.3 Business plan risks

The [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] model faces primarily operative and political risks. One recent example is the changes in taxation, which the Party Service Association e.V. finds impacted the business model of catering companies negatively. Stricter requirements with regard to hygiene are expected in XXXX (partly due to the recent norovirus epidemic). However, we of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] believe the more stringent hygiene requirements will affect mostly low-cost providers’ business. It is important that marketing investment be aimed at the target group and generate more revenue. The manager has the necessary knowledge and contacts to quickly hike up the revenue of the recently faltering [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city branch. The numerous challenges of the business model are very likely to be overcome given his experience and qualifications.Other risks may arise in day-to-day operations, such as dishwasher malfunction. To this end, sample brand businesses are advised to maintain very good communication with the manufacturers and to think ahead when they are buying cleaning products and installing water filters/softeners. Insurance is a key issue when operating with valuable and fragile goods. Health and accident insurance and labor and service agreement details (especially with long-term subcontractors) must be researched very thoroughly in order to ensure legal protection.  [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] has had a special agreement with the “Leipziger” insurance for several years, which guarantees the company insurance coverage across the board on very favorable terms.

3. Catering Business Plan Sample: Business Plan SWOT-Analysis

The following SWOT matrix gives a clear picture of all strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats:

[TABLE REMOVED]

4. Catering Business Plan Sample: Business Plan Location

Due to its location, the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city offers attractive starting conditions for potentially profitable operations of the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] branch. The [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city and the region of Lower Saxony are a business hub and travel destination in the heart of Europe. A good infrastructure of roads, railways and waterways enables fast connections to national and international markets. The wealth of the region is based mainly on a strong industry. The Lower Saxony Harbor Group shipped XX.X million tons in XXXX, which puts it in position X in Germany. The largest cruise ships in the world are built in Lower Saxony, as are parts for XXX, the biggest planes in the world. The headquarters of Volkswagen are located in the sample city. The Brunswick-Wolfsburg greater area is one of the largest metropolitan areas of the automotive industry in Europe. Numerous research institutes for aerospace and other innovative industries are based in the region. Lower Saxony also has a strong agrarian industry and is a leader in the renewable energy sector. [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city is considered to be one of the most important German trade fair locations. Since XXXX visitors from around the world have come here to see the latest achievements in industry, technology and science in Germany. Its CeBIT, the Agritechnica, the Biotechnica and the IAA Commercial Vehicles are world-famous. The German Trade Fair Group organizes over XX events in the Business plan city with XXX staff a year. The sample city has a very attractive location. The [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] sample city branch is located in the Kriegerstrasse XX, north of the center, with very good road access. We can conclude that it will benefit optimally from the favorable onsite conditions.

5. Catering Business Plan Sample: Business plan partner/s

Partner companies of various types are very important for the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] both in terms of the purchase of equipment for leasing and facilities as well as for administrative or financial processes. The most important partner companies are listed below. A potential partner company is presented, which [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] can use to gain a unique edge over competitors in an important non-food catering segment.

6. Catering Business Plan Sample: Business plan marketing

6.1 Business plan pricing

The founder and manager of the Sample brand has pursued a strategy of quality leadership ever since its launch. The [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] is inseparable from its reputation as the “XXXXXX of non-food caterers” and therefore has the best access to the most affluent, highest-value clients. The high prices are therefore an important feature of the business model because they guarantee perfect services and performance. The company goes so far as to quote a British social reformer on “being rich and cheap goods” on its website and in catalogs.

6.2 Business plan communication strategy

As already mentioned, [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] builds on strong marketing to communicate the advantages of its offers through multiple channels. In addition to conventional media (print advertising, trade shows, cold calling, etc.), we also utilize electronic media to attract customers. The sample brand, multiple winner of the Catering Star award, and its corporate identity are present daily on each level of communication with current and future customers, suppliers and employees. The logo with confetti fountain, slogan ( “We’ll make your party shine!”) and the bright turquoise are to be seen not only on marketing channels, but also on the delivery van, correspondence, on the uniforms of the staff and of course the packaging and hygiene certificates. The brand book, which the franchisee abides by, details the structure of the retail premises. Potential customers can look at the goods and receive expert advice on their event.  Over the course of time and development of the company it emerged that the name “Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.” had been chosen very cleverly. The company name is not only among the first ones in alphabetical yellow pages – it also amuses cold call recipients, leading them to open their ears.Presence at trade fairs is very important for the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.]. The company disposes of modern, high-quality exhibition equipment, which can be used by any branch participating in a fair. The parent company organizes central exhibits. Among the fairs in sample city where branches can be featured are „TrauDich!“ (Trust you), „Hochzeitstage“ (Wedding days) or the Wedding Expo in Sheraton, the gastronomy fair „GastroTrends“, lifestyle expos „Lebensart“ (Way of life) or „Christmas“, the biggest Christmas fair in Germany. Consumer goods expos such as „Infa“, „Garten & Ambiente“ (Garden and Ambience), „ReiseZeit“ (Travel time) or the regional SME fair. Taking part in these fairs could be a lucrative way of acquiring clients and partners.Well-designed catalogs are printed and issued to ensure the company will be remembered. The company also prints a series of flyers, which have advertising slogans on one side and tips and advice for a successful event on the other, such as how to fold napkins properly or which cocktails are appropriate for which occasion. These tips are also listed on the website. There is currently no glossy brochure or such print advertising for promotional purposes. This has been criticized by some [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] licensees, which is why there are plans to create a high-quality brochure in the next few years. Giveaways will be organized on the premises of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] as well as at trade fairs and to a lesser extent also upon delivery of rental equipment with the aim to attract new clients. These goods are mainly classic promotional gifts like matchboxes, but also pens, wet wipes and mints. These gifts are used to make [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] more memorable. They are more likely to be remembered by potential customers than leaflets or brochures. In the long term, the range of freebies could be extended to include innovative products, like the magnets and post-its put on refrigerators and kitchen utensils in the US. The sample brand website, currently being reconstructed, is a key element in the overall marketing strategy. It was last redesigned in XXXX in order to meet the growing demands of the German catering business. The site, which features pages on branch locations in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and includes pure advertising and marketing elements, generates significant revenue. Here clients can view catalog pictures and prices of all products and make orders when they log in a password-protected area. All pages feature advertising content. At the bottom clients can leave feedback on the service quality. There is also a page of references, key suppliers and partners. [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] has barely done any Internet advertising. It currently has deficits both in the area of traditional keyword or email marketing as well as in the use of social networks. Moreover, the company ranks much lower in the most important keyword searches than its competitors. There is a lot of quality content on the site, but it is duplicated because of the design. It is likely that this circumstance as well as the occasionally hidden pages affect search engine ranking and readership adversely. [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] also has no video marketing and no continuous news flow management. Both instruments would help promote the company and result in a higher ranking if put to good use.

7. Catering Business Plan Sample: Business plan manager

Mr. [Business Plan] is the manager and managing partner of [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] Mr. [Business plan] founded [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] XX years ago and has XX years of experience in gastronomy. He has proven time and again that he is able to put struggling companies back on the track to growth. He stands out with his fierce entrepreneur spirit, ambition and love for detail.

[EXCERPT DELETED]

Although his journey has been a long one, Mr. Business plan still has a lot of enthusiasm and spirit and is developing his business steadily on the levels of IT, product range and marketing. Buying out problematic branches (in some cases unclear succession in management is an important reason to sell) helps affirm and spur the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] toward growth. His vast market knowledge, leadership skills and traits ensure Mr. Business plan manager will be able to bring the [Catering Business Plan Sample Ltd.] city branch back in the black. His numerous personal contacts will play an important role in this context.

8. Catering Business Plan Sample: Business plan staff

The staffing needs and tasks are presented in the following table.

9. Catering Business Plan Sample: Financial Planning

9.1 Business Plan Clarification

After three years of operating at a loss the company’s capital base has eroded. Shareholder loans are needed to recapitalize the company for the planned investments. In the current fiscal year XXXX it is possible to make a small profit due to the liquidation, but the operating revenue has plummeted and most of the processes have been shut down. The new shareholder loan of XXX.XXX will cover the initial capital requirement during the turn-around because payment is demanded for services. The other cost parameters, in particular personnel, leasing and event costs are planned so that no additional borrowing will be necessary. Sample Brand is expected to enter the market quickly due to the available contact network as the reputation of the brand speaks for itself. The revenue volume will skyrocket thanks to high marketing investments.

9.2 Revenue Source Clarification

Reactivated clients will generate revenue of around XX.XXX Euro starting from the very first month. The monthly revenue should reach ca. XX.XXX Euro by the end of XXXX. Annual revenue will increase by XX% between XXXX and XXXX and again between XXXX and XXXX by ca. XX%. The sample brand’s market segment is difficult to predict as the positive effects mentioned in the market analysis could easily lead to higher revenues, which is why this estimate is rather conservative. The annual revenue will attain growth of XX-XX% in the long term. After the second year the revenue in the first month of the following year will start to decline y/y. This is accounted for by the expectation that demand will rise around Christmas (seasonal) and revenues in January will drop in comparison. Despite this, progressive revenue growth is still expected.

Source: Financial plan (estimates of manager, numbers in Euro)

We expect business entities, including trade fair participants to account for slightly higher revenue portion than the other two target groups, namely hotel / gastronomy and private clients. We thus expect a revenue ratio of X: X:X for the three target groups. The breakdown by sector is as follows (see chart). The leasing business accounts for around two-thirds of the total revenue. The rest is generated by selling products and services. The most important segment overall is leasing dishes / utensils, contributing to one-third of the total result.

9.3.Business plan capital

Mr. Business Plan will provide XXX% of company capital as the sole managing partner of the branch.

What Our Clients Have to Say

• Markus Delfs Inventor "...would anytime this provider." recommend
• Anya Chistyakova Manager "...unmatched and speed." efficiency
• Klaus Albrecht Merchant "...at any time and willingness to explain." easy accessibility
• Rose Mae Turner Fashion Designer "...They did Job." a superb
• Harald Wolf Merchant "...very fast, extremely high." quality of texts
• Matthew Jiovanni Inventor "...service was penny." worth every
• Tom Hilgardner Coach "...helpful advice my business." on how to grow
• Jürgen Siebert Merchant "...high motivation, good knowledge." transparent processes,
• Stefan Willautzkat Programmer "...everything great!" went
• Bernd Brencher Merchant "...100% convinced BrainHive." of the value
• Patrick Riehl Real Estate Agent "...simply results." brilliant
• Holger Martens IT-Entrepreneur "...quickly understood of my industry." the challenges
• Tom Richter Coach "...great to have to rely on." such competence
• Reinhold Weber Factory owner "...honest, young people." diligent
• Thomas Jung Tech-Startup "...at any given time that we are in good hands." we had the feeling

BrainHive: Worldwide #1 in Business Plan Pricing

Brainhive: essence of business planning, contact us today.

Joachim Jacob Görbert, Director

Reach us 24/7 via

US & International: +1 (844) 434 96 92

Europe & Germany: +49 (0) 6192-703 41 53

Contact Form

Fast & easy: Have us directly calculate an offer for your business plan.

Calculate Offer

Publications

Download Premium Publication

BrainHive is known through our publications in:

BrainHive Consulting is a registered vendor with Unidos, the intelligence and resource sourcing hub of the United Nations.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Information required?

- Documents required?

- Duration?

Here you will find answers for the most common questions concerning our business plan service.

More from our blog

Erp software startup business plan sample, eco event planning: how rainbow gatherings are organized, brainhive on quora: giving free advice to the community, update: brainhive’s social impact work in guatemala, eco village business plan | intentional living community, grant writing for ngo: sample grant, brainhive coworking in guatemala finally open, business plan cost uk.

• 4. April 2018

i like it…its awesome

Recent Posts

• ERP Software Startup Business Plan Sample 22. March 2023
• Eco Event Planning: How Rainbow Gatherings are Organized 5. April 2019
• BrainHive on Quora: Giving Free Advice to the Community 21. January 2019

Leave a Comment cancel

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Catering Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Food Industry » Catering Service » Catering Business Plan

Do you want to start a catering company and need to write a business plan? If YES, here is a sample catering business plan template & feasibility report.

You see, planning to cater for guests doesn’t come easy. It is one thing to plan for a party or want to host some guests in the comfort of your home; and it is yet another to have them well catered for . This is where adequate organization and projections come to fore.

This means that if you were planning for a party for instance, you have got to be sure about the number of guests you are expecting, the type of food that appeals to them, as well as how you intend going about the preparation. Indeed having to go through all these steps, might be a bit tasking, however, good news is that there are folks who can take away the burden.

You will need to do plenty of research work, so as to arrive at the best of templates that can help guide you through the type of business that you are into. Below is a sample catering business plan template which you can use to get started with your own business plan.

A Sample Catering Service Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Have you ever wondered how difficult it really gets for people who host parties to cope when they have to cook all the meals that the guests get to eat? Without a doubt, it is quite a difficult task to accomplish this, especially if the number of guests attending the event is much.

As such, if the host attempts to personally cook the meals for her guests; particularly when the number is on the high side, chances are that they may likely breakdown due to fatigue. It is for this reason that caterers are in hot demand.

There is hardly any country in the world where one may not find caterers who are into full – time catering businesses. Professional caterers do not only cater for big organizations, government agencies, institutions and parties, but they can also be contacted to handle home catering services for people who can the luxury.

This means that people who host a huge number of visitors per time in their houses can relax and allow the burden of cooking to be taken off them.

In the united states of America alone, there are well over 10,000 registered catering businesses that employ about 150,000 people ( both contract and full time employees ), and most of them are thriving pretty well in the business because there are loads of business opportunities available to caterers in the United States of America, as well as in other parts of the world.

The United States of America’s Catering Industry generates well over 7 Billion US Dollars annually through events such as; weddings, holiday parties, corporate functions ( Annual General Meetings and Anniversary et al), funerals and birthday parties amongst others, and the figure is still on the increase.

Catering business is considered to be amongst the delicate industries, this is because they are involved in cooking food for consumption for a large number of guests per time. It is the reason why this business is subjected to regular inspection by relevant health officials from different local health departments.

As one who runs a catering business in the United States of America, you are expected by law to comply with the laid down rules and regulations for the industry.

There is ample room for any entrepreneur who is interested in running a catering business in the United States of America to start in any capacity and still maximize profit in the business. You can start by catering for 20 people or less, conversely, you can as well start your catering business by catering for a large crowd.

The bottom line is that catering business is known to be a very lucrative business in all parts of the world, and not just in the United States of America.

2. Executive Summary

Appealing Delight® Catering Services Company is a catering business that will be based in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Our intention of starting a catering business in Chicago is to deliver the best quality catering services at an affordable price to a wide range of customers.

Our services will involve catering for parties, outdoor events, weddings, holiday parties, birthday parties, corporate events, picnics, anniversaries and special events et al.

Work will always be on going when it comes to working with our clients to give them the best. We have perfected our plans on how to execute that. At Appealing Delight® Catering Services Company, we are going to take pride in working with our clients to deliver high quality and nutritious meals and excellent services while working with their budget. Our customers don’t need to break the bank to get the best of foods and services from us.

As part of our plans to make our customers our number one priority, we have perfected plans to work with our clients to provide customized services based on their budget. We will be involved in delivery services for our clients, rentals services, event management and consultancy services.

At Appealing Delight® Catering Services Company, we will go the extra mile to give our esteemed customers value for their money irrespective of the size of their budget. As such, we do not intend to turn any one down, because of the meager amount of cash they may have.

Appealing Delight® Catering Services Company is own and managed by Mrs. Sharon Miller, a notable and award winning cook in the United States of America. She will be bringing her experience to fore, to help Appealing Delight® Catering Services Company grow to become the number one choice in the whole of Chicago and environs and also a one – stop – shop when it is about catering services.

3. Our Products and Services

At Appealing Delight® Catering Services, we will be involved in cooking both local foods and intercontinental foods for our clients. Our intention is not to restrict our services to only cooking of foods, but we are also going to be involved in spreading our tentacles to cover all aspects of the ideal catering business.

In as much as cooking meals will be our number one priority as a catering business, we will also be involved in event management, rental services, consultancy and trainings. Here are some of the products and services we will be offering our clients;

• Corporate Catering
• Wedding Catering
• Holiday Catering
• Breakfast Catering
• Picnic Catering
• Box Lunch Catering
• Cocktail Party Catering
• Pig Roast Catering
• BBQ Catering
• Canteen Management
• Event Management
• Sales of Cakes
• Rental Services
• Consultancy Services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• To become the number one catering service provider in the whole of Chicago, Illinois.
• To establish a standard catering business that will meet all the catering needs (cooking, event planning , rentals, trainings and consultancy services) of people in Chicago and neighboring states.

Our Business Structure

Our catering business will be structured in such a way to accommodate all the aspects of our business offering. We are setting up a catering business that will not only be involved in cooking and serving foods on behalf of our clients, but a business that will also be involved in rental services ( renting of cooking wares, table cloths, tables, chairs, marquee tents et al ), consultancy services and trainings ( run a catering school ).

So, in setting up the structure for Appealing Delight Catering Company, our business structure will be slightly different from what is obtainable in an ideal catering business that majors in cooking and serving foods on behalf of their clients.

We are going to run a full-fledged office in Chicago, a place where people can come in and make inquiries. In view of the above, we have made provision for the following position in our organization;

• Chief Executive Officer

Cooking Assistants

• Admin and Personnel Manager
• Front Desk Officer
• Sales and Marketing Officer

Servers (Contract Staff)

• Cleaners / Dish Washers

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for the day to day running of the business
• Responsible for handling high profiled clients and deals
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for recruitment
• Responsible for the payment of salaries
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Reports to the board

Bakery Manager:

• Responsible for managing the daily activities in the restaurant
• Ensures that the bakery facility is in tip top shape and conducive enough to welcome customers
• Interfaces with third – party providers (vendors)
• Reports to the Chief Executive Officer
• Attends to Customers complains and enquiries
• Prepares budget and reports for the organization
• Any other duty as assigned by the CEO

Chief Chef:

• Responsible for preparing different meals as requested by our clients
• Makes lists and budget for cooking supplies
• Oversees the entire coking process
• Responsible for training new cooks
• Makes sure that quality is maintained at all times
• Assists the chief chef in the kitchen
• Runs errands for the chief chef
• Responsible for purchasing food ingredients for the organization
• Ensures that the kitchen is kept clean at all times
• Ensures that all kitchen wares are kept at their proper position after use.
• Any other duty as assigned by the Chief Chef

Admin / Personnel Manager

• Receives payments on behalf of the restaurant
• Handles all HR concerns for the organization
• Supervises employees during events
• Issues receipt to customers
• Prepares financial report at the end of every working week
• Handles all financial transaction on behalf of the company
• Interfaces with our bankers
• Responsible for payment of tax, levies and utility bills
• Any other duty as assigned by the CEO / restaurant manager

Sales and Marketing Officer:

• Sources for clients for the company
• Responsible for promoting the company’s image
• Responsible for creating marketing and sales strategies, etc.
• Represents the organization in some strategic business meetings
• Any other duty as assigned by the Chief Operating Officer / Bakery manager
• Delivers customers’ orders promptly
• Runs errand for the organization
• Transports employees and goods to and fro event venues
• Assists in setting up cooking and serving stands during events
• Any other duty as assigned by the personnel manager
• Take orders from guests
• Serves guest during events / parties
• Assists in cleaning dishes after events / parties
• Assists in the movement of cooking utensils, plates, spoons and other relevant wares

Cleaners / Dish Washers:

• Responsible for cleaning the office facility and kitchen at all times
• Ensure that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Responsible for washing dishes before and after events
• Cleans both the interior and exterior of the building

6. SWOT Analysis

We are quite aware that is a stiffer competition when it comes to the catering trade in Chicago, which is why we decided to take our time to perfect our strategies before launching out. Our goal is to become a leading all – round catering services company in the whole of Chicago and the only way to achieve that is to out – perform our competitors. In order to outperform our competitors in Chicago, we hired a business consultant to help us conduct SWOT analysis .

In view of that, we were able to take stock of our strengths, our weakness, our opportunities and also the threats that we are likely going to be exposed to in establishing our catering business in Chicago, IL. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Delicious Delight® Catering Services.

We are a complete catering business that does not offer outdoor catering services alone, but offer consultancy services, rental services and trainings. The truth is that, people will prefer to engage a client that can provide them with all they would need to make their events a memory one.

It means that the need to sign different contracts with different providers (vendors) will not arise once they engage our services. Another positive for us is that we will be working with the best of caterers in the US; they are going to be guest lecturers in our Catering School and our CEO is an award winning caterer in Chicago who is widely celebrated.

Our weakness could be the challenge of hiring and keeping the best cooks / chefs in our payroll since most of them may want to work for themselves. This challenge applies to almost all catering business owners . Yet another weakness is that we are new in Chicago, IL.

• Opportunities

When it comes to catering services, the opportunities that are available cannot be quantified. Any entrepreneur can start his or her own outdoor catering business anywhere in the world and still make huge returns on his or her investment.

At Appealing Delight Catering Company, we take pride in the fact that we are one of the few catering services companies in Chicago that offer a wide range of related catering services; hence we are likely going to maximize the opportunities available for catering business in Chicago, IL.

There are a couple of first class catering services companies in Chicago IL, and they are a huge threat to us. They pose a threat to us because they are already established, and their brand is well accepted. Also, most of them can boast of a have huge clientele base.

Our competitors are able to develop expensive new marketing and sales campaigns and that will mean that we will have to struggle to catch – up.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

There is hardly any organization or individual who intends organizing any party or event that will not engage the services of caterers. One of the high points of parties, weddings and events generally is the time for refreshments with foods.

Most people who attend parties look forward to when food is served, that is to tell you that a party will not be complete if there is nothing to eat and drink.

It is the norm for most corporate organizations to also give out the management of their canteens to vendors (caterers) because they know that it will be a distraction if they decided to handle it themselves. This is one of the major areas catering companies leverage on in building their businesses to generate steady income.

Outdoor catering services is supposed to be the core offering of catering businesses, but outdoor events don’t happen every day these days. As a matter of fact, caterers compete for the available weddings and parties that are organized during the weekends because weekends and holidays appear to be the busiest periods for catering business.

In order to compete with the big wigs in the catering industry in Chicago, we have decided to create a niche, which is why we want to run an all – round catering business; a catering business that is not just restricted to cooking and serving of foods, but a catering business that will offer rental services, consultancy services, as well as run a standard, government approved / licensed catering school in Chicago IL. Appealing Delight® Catering Company will adopt the following marketing and sales strategies;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to all the corporate organizations in Illinois
• Neighborhood, door to door and mouth to ear mode of adverts to introduce our business in our community
• Engage in road shows ( make some open air noise) to introduce our business
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver quality foods and services
• Encourage and reward referral marketing.
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Start a TV show in line with our business goal and objectives
• Sponsor relevant community events, such as cooking competitions and cooking reality shows on TV et al.

8. Our Target Market

No doubt, the target market for catering businesses cut across people of all walks of life and organizations. The need to celebrate and call for a party will always arise and it is not restricted to only a group of people or organization, it cuts across people of all walks of life.

Yes, our catering services is within the reach of everybody and we intend serving available clients, but in order to effectively make plans and take actions towards meeting our sales and marketing goals, we have been able to pencil down the category of people and organizations that will be our main target market. Below is a list of the people and organizations that we have specifically designed our products and services for;

• Families (Homes)
• Schools (boarding house and campus et al)
• Wedding Ceremonies
• Event Planners
• Sport Centers
• Corporate Organizations
• Aspiring Entrepreneurs (Those who want to learn how to cook and run their own catering businesses)
• Managers of public facilities
• Carnival Organizers
• Caterers ( for our consultancy services and perhaps renting of our catering wares)

Our Competitive Advantage

Appealing Delight® Catering Services is coming into the catering industry knowing completely well that there are other competent and well established catering companies in Chicago. However, we have decided to critically study the industry and have realized that in order to have a competitive advantage over our competitors; we must do what they are not doing.

In view of the above stated fact, we have decided to offer a wide range of catering services that will meet the needs of a wide range of clientele base. We want to be the one stop shop when it comes to catering services in the whole of Illinois.

Our clients should be able to sign just one contract with us and we will deliver nearly all they would need to make their events a memorable one. This is the competitive advantage that we are bringing to the market in Chicago, IL.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Appealing Delight® Catering Services Company is established with the aim of maximizing the catering business, hence our service offerings. With the nature with which we intend building our business, we are not going to lack continuous inflow of cash.

There are several sources of income for our business and we will ensure that we do all we can to maximize them. Below are the sources of revenue generation for Delicious Delight® Catering Services Company;

• Offering outdoor catering services to a wide range of clients
• Engage in Party rental services (renting of catering wares, chairs, tables and tents et al.)
• Manage Canteens for corporate organizations.
• Running a top notch government approved catering school in Chicago, Illinois
• Offering consultancy services in line with our business offerings

10. Sales Forecast

It is important to state that our sales forecast is based on the data gathered during our feasibility studies and also some of the assumptions readily available on the field.

This sales projection is based on our business offerings which involve outdoor catering services, rental services, event management, canteen management, our catering school and consultancy services et al. On the Average, we look forward to;

• Handle about 4 Outdoor Catering Events in a Month
• Secure contract to manage 5 canteens for corporate organizations within the first 3 months of launching the business
• Sell a minimum of 20 Standard Cakes in a Month
• Manage a minimum of 2 Events a Month
• Consult for a minimum of 4 clients in a month
• Train a minimum of 50 caterers within the first 6 months of launching the catering school
• Rent our catering wares / party stuffs to a minimum of 4 clients per month

N.B-: Please note that we could not put a specific amount to the projection above because the prices may differ for different services and for different clients. Part of our business strategy is to work within the budget of our clients as stated earlier.

Also, to deliver quality catering services hence it will be difficult to project what we are likely going to make from such deals. But, the bottom line is that we are definitely going to make reasonable profits from any business deal that we execute.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Appealing Delight Catering Services Company intends to become the number one catering services company in the whole of Chicago and the only way for us to achieve this is to engage in guerilla marketing. Our plan is to ensure that we get our own fair of the existing market in Illinois.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the industry and they will be trained on a regular basis, so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall goal of the organization.

Our goal is to become a one-size-fits- all kind of service people when it comes to catering services in Chicago, Illinois and its environs. This is why we must explore all the marketing tactics available to us if indeed we want to fulfill our mandate. In nut a shell, we will explore the following marketing and sales strategies to promote our catering business;

• Direct Marketing
• Marketing via Our Sponsored TV Programs and Community Based Events
• Erect Our Billboards in Strategic locations around the city
• Online Marketing (via our official website, social media platforms and blog et al)
• Referral Marketing
• Promotion of our products during our training sessions in our catering school

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market. First and foremost, we want our brand to visible and well communicated which is why we have created a logo with attractive colors.

All our publicity materials and jingles are done by some of the best hands in the industry. We have created a budget to take care of our publicity and advertising need and here are the platforms we intend making use of to promote and advertise our business;

• Place adverts on both print and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community programs
• Sponsor relevant TV shows
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook ,Twitter, LinkedIn, Badoo, Google+ et al
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations
• Engage in road shows from time to time
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in targeted areas from time to time

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Launching a new business is not an easy task especially if you are launching a business / idea that is not entirely new from what is obtainable in the location you intend launching it. So, part of our strategy for entering the market is to leverage on pricing to gain a good percentage of the available market.

Of course we will attract clients by offering quality catering services for rock – bottom price. A price that probably will be the lowest in the industry.

Although prices for our catering services and other related services will be lower than what is obtainable in the industry, but it wouldn’t remain so for a long time. As a matter of fact, we intend jacking up the prices gradually until it falls at par with what is obtainable in the industry. We aim to achieve this within a year of launching the business.

• Payment Options

Our payment policy is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by cash
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via
• Payment via Mobile money

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans without any itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in Florida: $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance , permits and license: $5,000
• The Amount needed to acquire a suitable Facility with storage space for 6 months in Chicago, Illinois (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive): $70,000.
• The Cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (fridges, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al): $15,000
• The Cost for Catering Equipment (Standard commercial oven, Industrial Gas Cooker, Baking Sheets and Racks, Mixers, Work Tables, Sinks, Slicers, Scales, Cake decorating Tools, Ingredient Bins and kitchen utensils et al) : $15,000
• The Cost of Launching a Website: $600
• The cost for our opening party: $5,000
• Additional Expenditure ( Business cards , Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al): $5,000

Going by the report from our research and feasibility studies, we will need an average $150,000 to set a catering business in Chicago, IL.

One good thing about catering business and perhaps other related services that we render, is that you are definitely going to make profits from any business deal that you handle. You are expected to submit quotations that will be enough to cover your expenses and profits as well.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Delicious Delight® Catering Services Company

• The CEO Mrs. Sharon Miller will generate 40 percent of the start – up capital from her personal savings
• She will source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Her bankers are willing to give her loan facility to the tune of 80,000 US Dollars

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Our CEO Sharon Miller has plans to implement succession plans hence the introduction of her daughter Ms. Stacy Miller to join her in building the business from the scratch . She has made plans to train her on the job and also attend training courses. Ms. Stacy Miller will be understudying her mother with the sole aim of taking over the business once she retires.

As part of the plans to sustain the business and also to expand the business, we will continue to invest in the training of our employees and also continue to explore new opportunities to generate income for the business. We are certain that if we get things right and we work hard; we are likely going to triple our income in the second year of our operations.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Renting of Facility and Construction of our Commercial Kitchen: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members and friends: Completed
• Application for Loan: In Progress
• writing of business plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, electronic appliances and catering equipment: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Preparation of our catalogue and price list: Completed
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and in the neighborhood: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Kitchen Approval by Inspectors from Local Health Office: Done
• Opening party / launching party: In Progress
• Compilation of our list of products and detailed recipe : Completed
• Arrangement for trainers and training facility: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – suppliers of all our needed food ingredients: Completed
• Purchase of delivery vans: Completed.

Related Posts:

• Catering Equipment Hire Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Liquor Store Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Fruit Juice Shop Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Food Testing Lab Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Charcuterie Business Plan [Sample Template]

Catering Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Starting a catering business can be an incredibly rewarding venture, offering flexibility, creativity, and a unique opportunity to express your culinary prowess. To ensure your business venture is successful, it's important to create a comprehensive business plan. Fortunately, our Catering Business Plan Template & Guidebook is here to provide you with the most up-to-date information and resources you need to make your venture a reality. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process and provide invaluable advice on how to develop an effective business plan for your catering business.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

• How to Start a Profitable Catering Business [11 Steps]
• 10+ Best & Profitable Catering Business Ideas [2023]
• 25 Catchy Catering Business Names:
• List of the Best Marketing Ideas For Your Catering Service:

How to Write a Catering Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your catering business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your catering business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a catering business:

Our mission at ABC Catering is to create delicious, custom-made culinary experiences that bring joy, satisfaction, and lasting memories to each and every one of our clients. We are dedicated to providing outstanding customer service and creating unforgettable, high-quality catering experiences that will leave all of our guests delighted.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Catering Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your catering business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your catering business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your catering business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your catering business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a catering business?

To run a catering business, you will need the following equipment and supplies:

• Commercial kitchen space or access to a commercial kitchen
• Cooking vessels of various sizes
• Industrial-grade ovens and stoves
• Freezer and refrigeration units
• Utensils for cooking and serving, such as tongs, spoons, and knives
• Serving trays or platters
• Food packaging materials
• Pots, pans, hot plates and other cooking equipment
• Food safety supplies such as thermometers and gloves
• Transportation vehicles

You may also need the following permits:

• Licenses for selling food in your area
• Health permit to serve food in your area
• Catering license or permit if required by your state/local government.

5. Management & Organization of Your Catering Business.

The second part of your catering business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your catering business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Catering Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a catering business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a catering business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your catering business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your catering business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your catering business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Catering Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a catering business.

A business plan for a catering business is necessary because it sets out goals, objectives, and strategies that provide direction to the business. It also acts as a roadmap for the business, allowing the owners and stakeholders to track progress. Additionally, potential investors or lenders may require a business plan before investing in or lending to the catering business. A well-written business plan can serve as an essential document for securing capital and launching a successful catering operation.

Who should you ask for help with your catering business plan?

It is recommended to consult with a professional business consultant or adviser with expertise in the catering industry. Additionally, local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) often provide free or low-cost guidance and advice on creating a business plan.

Can you write a catering business plan yourself?

Writing a catering business plan is possible to do on your own, however it is best to seek the advice of a professional who has experience in crafting and managing business plans for small businesses. A professional can provide the help you need to make sure the plan is comprehensive and tailored to your business’s unique needs. They can also ensure that the plan meets all legal requirements and fits within the local regulatory framework. Additionally, they can provide guidance on marketing, pricing, budgeting, and other business operations issues.

Related Business Plans

Home Inventory Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Home Inspection Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Home Decor Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Health And Wellness Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hauling Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hardware Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Handyman Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hair Extension Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Handbag Business Plan Template & Guidebook

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

Strategic Plan for a Catering Business

Catering is one of the most competitive niches in the food sector. In order to be successful, you need to have a well-thought-out plan, otherwise you’ll just end up blowing through your capital.

A strategic plan will help outline your overall goals and the various steps you need to take in order to achieve them. It will also help maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of your resources. This article will hopefully provide you with a blueprint for creating a strategic plan for your catering business.   

How to Create a Strategic Plan For a Catering Business

There are a number of ways that you can create a strategic plan for your catering business. Here is a simple structure to follow:

1. Create A Vision For Your Business

Creating a strategic vision for your catering business is an important step in ensuring long-term success. A well-crafted vision can help you focus your efforts and set goals that are both achievable and inspiring.

It can also help you determine the direction you want to take your business, and it can provide motivation when challenges arise.

2. Analyze The Current State Of Affairs

There are many factors to consider when designing a catering business strategy. One important consideration is a current analysis of the catering industry in your location by conducting a SWOT Analysis.

A SWOT analysis is a tool that can be used to help identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in a company or organization.

When conducting a SWOT analysis, it is important to first identify the company’s Strengths. These are things that make the company strong relative to its competition.

Next, identify the company’s Weaknesses. These are areas where the company could use improvement relative to its competitors.

Finally, identify the Opportunities and Threats facing the company. Opportunities are things that could increase revenue or profits for the company, while Threats are potential problems that could decrease revenue or profits for the company.

Once these four sections have been completed, it is possible to develop a strategy for addressing each of these areas. For example, if one of the Strengths of your business is strong customer relationships, it might be worthwhile to focus on marketing efforts that will improve customer loyalty.

If one of the Weaknesses is poor financial management practices, it might make sense to invest in systems that will help improve accuracy and efficiency of your financial management, or to hire a dedicated accountant/finance manager.

3. Define the Goals for Your Catering Business

In order to ensure success for your catering business, it is important to have realistic and achievable goals. A good way to start is by defining what you hope to achieve with your business.

Here are some objectives that may be relevant to your catering business:

• Increase revenue: Aim to increase annual sales by 10% over the next three years. This could mean increasing catering orders from existing customers, acquiring new customers, or finding new sources of revenue (such as special events)
• Improve efficiency: You may want to aim for a reduction in operating costs (such as wages, supplies, and delivery fees) by 20% over the next three years
• Eliminate waste: You want your business to run as efficiently as possible so that you can allocate more resources towards growing sales and improving your weaknesses

4. Develop Strategies to Achieve these Goals

Now that you have a roadmap outlining the steps that need to be taken in order to reach your goals, it is time to select the strategy that works best for you and execute it accordingly.

There are many different strategies that could work well for a catering business, so it is important that you choose one that fits your unique situation and goals. Here are a few tips to help you find the best strategy for your business:

• Target your market: Do some research to figure out which segments of the population are most likely to order catering services. Then, develop campaigns specifically aimed at these groups
• Consider online advertising: This is one of the most cost-effective ways to reach your target market, and it can also be targeted very precisely
• Create a pricing strategy: Decide on a price point that you think will be affordable but still generate a healthy return on investment (ROI). This will help you keep costs low while still making a profit

5. Create a Roadmap for Success

Once you have developed your strategy and determined the necessary steps needed to reach them, it is time to create a roadmap for success. This roadmap should include specific timelines and milestones that need to be met in order to succeed.

It should also include specific strategies for marketing and advertising the catering business. By having this roadmap laid out in front of you, it will be much easier to focus on reaching your goals.

6. Put the Plans to Action

Once you have a clear strategy and roadmap, it is time to put them into action. Implementing these plans will require dedication and hard work, but it is well worth the effort.

7. Monitor Progress and Adjust as Needed

It is important to track the progress of your catering business in order to ensure that you are achieving the intended outcomes.

You should track the results from each of your goals, including sales, customer retention, employee management, marketing, etc. If you feel the performance in one area is still lacking, then it may be a good time to review your plan and make some adjustments. 

A well-developed strategic plan should be based on your specific business goals and objectives. It should identify the key markets you want to serve, the products or services you offer, the geographic area in which you would like to operate, and the target audience you hope to attract. It should also include a detailed explanation of how you plan to achieve these goals.

Finally, it’s important to keep your vision updated as new information emerges. Regular reflection will ensure that your strategy remains relevant and effective as conditions change.

Catering Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Catering Business Plan Outline

• Catering Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan

Start Your Catering Plan Here

Catering Executive Summary

Business overview.

Fine Foods Catering is a newly established company that will provide catering services for a variety of events and clients in the Seattle, Washington area. Fine Foods Catering will provide catering for all types of corporate and social events, non-profit fundraiser events, business meetings, luncheons, and weddings. Our services will include menu creation designed for every clients’ tastes and requirements, bar services, food preparation, delivery, service, and cleanup. Fine Foods Catering is a full-service catering company who will deliver exceptional service at an unbeatable cost. Clients will receive ultimate value when choosing Fine Foods Catering for their next event.

Fine Foods Catering will be owned and managed by local Chef Dominic Gardea. Chef Dominic has over 20 years of culinary and hospitality experience and is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy. After apprenticing under some of the most world-renowned chefs in Paris, Dominic made his way back to Seattle and led the kitchen and catering departments of a large hospitality company as an Executive Chef. Chef Dominic’s attention to detail, creativity, and passion make him a popular and often-referred Chef for local catering events of all types and sizes.

Product Offering

The following are the list of services that Fine Foods Catering will offer:

• Corporate & social event catering
• Bar catering
• Corporate catering for meetings and luncheons

Customer Focus

Fine Foods Catering’starget customers are businesses of all sizes, government entities, local non-profits, and individuals in search of catering services for their wedding, birthday, reunion, etc. Businesses are the main client of a catering company as they require catering services that range from small meetings and luncheons to large corporate gatherings, galas, and holiday parties.

Management Team

Fine Foods Catering will be led by Owner and Head Chef Dominic Gardea. Chef Dominic will manage client communication, pricing, menu creation, staffing, marketing, inventory, and personnel. Chef Daniel has recruited an employee that has worked under him at the hospitality company for the past seven years, Matthew Knowles. Matthew is a certified Sommelier and Lead Bartender. Matthew is exceptionally skilled at mixing fresh and exotic cocktails and cultivating an elegant wine menu that includes selections to satisfy all wine palates. Matthew will be in charge of leading the bar program for Fine Foods Catering.

Success Factors

Fine Foods Catering will be able to offer the following advantages over the competition:

• Professional and friendly catering service at affordable pricing.
• Owner who will meet one-on-one with each client to have them taste sample menu items and be able to create a unique menu based on their event.
• Uniquely tailored bar program. Find Foods Catering will employ a certified sommelier who also has bar experience that can recommend and provide wine options upon request. He is also able to create professionally crafted cocktails for every type of event.
• A training program for each employee to ensure they are fully qualified and capable to deliver the highest standard of customer service while paying attention to detail.

Financial Highlights

Fine Foods Catering is seeking $136,500 in debt financing to open the catering business. The funding will be dedicated to secure the commercial kitchen lease, professional insurance for bonding, working capital to cover supplies and personnel, marketing costs, van, inventory, and supplies. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Commercial kitchen lease (3 months): $4,500
• Kitchen Equipment, Supplies, and Inventory: $50,000
• Utility van with Fine Foods Catering logo: $50,000
• Bonding Insurance: $10,000
• Working capital (3 months to cover hourly wages of staff, food, and supplies): $12,000
• Marketing (includes print ads and website design): $10,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Fine Foods Catering.