Shaping the Future of Contract Catering For 2024 and Beyond

As the UK hospitality sector navigates through a period of rapid change, industry leaders came together recently to discuss how to adapt and thrive in this new landscape. Alexandra Kristall, our managing director at The Good Eating Company, recently participated in a panel at the Hotel Restaurant & Catering (HRC) event at ExCel, where she joined fellow experts in exploring the future of contract catering. Here, we share Alexandra’s key takeaways from the event.

Enhancing Menu Offerings Amid Economic Challenges

The economic challenges facing the hospitality industry are undeniable, but they also present an opportunity for creativity and innovation. During the panel discussion, it was highlighted that supporting local businesses and focusing on seasonal ingredients is not just beneficial for the community but also helps manage costs. Simplifying menus, focusing on premium offerings, and offering flexibility are essential strategies for catering to diverse tastes and budgets.

Optimising Operational Efficiency

Efficiency is crucial in today’s economic climate. Industry leaders highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to streamline operations. A well-designed tech stack can provide valuable data-driven insights, optimise labour management, and ensure a balanced workload. Additionally, maintaining a tight, well-managed purchasing list and implementing sustainable supply chain practices are key to operational efficiency and sustainability.

Leveraging Technology for Innovation and Efficiency

Technology is revolutionising the contract catering industry, opening up new possibilities for service delivery and customer engagement. From AI and digital platforms to app and kiosk technologies, these innovations are transforming the dining experience. It was highlighted how these tools can enhance customer service and operational efficiency, particularly in response to changing work patterns. The integration of new technologies allows for more interactive and personalised dining experiences, catering to the expectations of today’s customers, especially the tech-savvy Gen Z.

Sustainability and ESG Goals: A Holistic Approach

The discussions at HRC reinforced the belief in the importance of a holistic approach to sustainability. From carbon labelling to promoting mental health and well-being, sustainability efforts must permeate every aspect of operations. This commitment not only addresses current challenges but also lays the groundwork for a sustainable and resilient future.

The Future of Contract Catering

At The Good Eating Company our vision for the future includes pioneering innovation across menu offerings, operational efficiency, technology integration, and sustainability. As we look towards 2024 and beyond, we are excited to continue our journey, exceeding our clients’ expectations and positively impacting our customers’ lives.