The Ultimate Guide on How to Get More Catering Orders

Expanding your catering business is challenging, but with the right strategies, it becomes entirely achievable and even inevitable. The global catering services market reached approximately $164.59 billion in 2023 and should grow at a CAGR of 6.6% between 2024 and 2032, aiming for nearly $292.56 billion by 2032.

This is a result of the growing interest in corporate events, private gatherings, and community celebrations. To capitalize on this expanding market, you must implement effective strategies to boost your catering sales, strengthen client relationships, and streamline operations using technology.

Whether you're an established catering business owner or just starting out, this article offers actionable insights to help you succeed.

Understanding the Current Catering Market 

The catering industry has experienced significant transformations in recent years, driven by evolving client expectations and technological advancements. Understanding these shifts is crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in this competitive landscape. Here are the four main trends to be aware of: 

4 Catering Market Trends 

1. Digital Integration: The rise of online ordering has revolutionized the catering sector, underscoring the necessity for a robust digital presence. A user-friendly website and seamless online ordering system are essential to attracting and retaining catering customers who rely on digital tools for event planning. 
2. Personalization and Customization: Clients increasingly desire tailored experiences. Offering customizable menus and personalized services significantly improves client satisfaction and loyalty. 
3. Sustainability: The growing level of worldwide environmental consciousness is influencing client choices. Adopting sustainable methods, such as utilizing ingredients from local sources and using environmentally friendly packaging, attracts clients who are conscious of environmental issues. 
4. Health and Wellness: The health-conscious consumer market grew by 3.85% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2019 and 2023.  Providing nutritious and dietary-specific menu items caters to this accelerating market segment. 

3 Target Audience Insights 

Identifying and understanding your target market is essential to develop effective strategies. Three key segments include: 

1. Corporate Clients: These clients prioritize punctuality, professionalism, and consistent quality. Corporate buyers normally require services for meetings, conferences, and corporate events, valuing reliability and efficiency. 
2. Private Parties: Individuals planning weddings, birthdays, or family gatherings seek creative menus and a personalized touch. They appreciate unique offerings and attentive service that make their events memorable. 
3. Community Groups: Organizations such as nonprofits, clubs, and local associations prioritize affordability and flexibility. They may have budget constraints and require adaptable solutions to meet diverse needs. 

By staying attuned to market trends and understanding your target audience, you can position your catering business to meet evolving demands and achieve sustained growth. 

12 Strategies to Increase Catering Orders 

Growing your catering business requires more than great food. Creating a seamless experience for your clients is essential, from the first interaction to the final follow-up. You need a blend of smart marketing, innovative offerings, and efficient operations to generate catering sales and increase your catering orders.  

Increasing Visibility 

1. Optimize Your Digital Presence 

Creating a visually appealing website and providing detailed marketing materials such as downloadable brochures can help convert visitors into potential catering clients. Make your catering website user-friendly, mobile-optimized, and easy to navigate. Include: 

• Clear catering menu design with pricing details. 
• A simple online ordering system. 
• Professional photos of your food and events. 

Don't forget restaurant SEO! Keywords like "How to get more catering orders" and "catering services" should be placed naturally on relevant pages throughout your site. 

Investing in robust restaurant catering software can streamline your online ordering process, improving efficiency and allowing you to handle more orders. 

2. Leverage Social Media Platforms 

Social media campaigns are a great way to find catering clients by showcasing your expertise, event success stories, and unique offerings.  

Promote your brand on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn. Post high-quality photos, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes videos. Use stories and live videos to engage followers. 

Tip: Run targeted ads to reach potential customers in your area. To grab attention, promote special events or seasonal menus. 

Strengthening Your Service Offerings 

3. Innovate Your Menu 

To keep your catering menu fresh, incorporate seasonal dishes and trending flavors. Also, highlight specialty items that set your catering company apart, such as locally sourced ingredients or unique presentation styles. An appealing menu will help boost catering sales, particularly when paired with seasonal promotions or themed event packages. 

4. Offer Customization Options 

Clients love flexibility. Offering personalized options helps retain loyal clients and attracts more catering clients who value flexibility and attention to detail. This makes customers feel valued and more likely to book again. 

Building Strong Relationships 

5. Engage Existing Customers 

Loyal customers are your best asset. Engaging existing customers is crucial for running a successful catering business, because improving customer retention by 5% can grow profits by 25% to 95%. 

Reach out to past clients through personalized emails, exclusive offers, or holiday greetings. Regular communication fosters loyalty and encourages repeat business. Loyalty programs and exclusive discounts can also boost customer satisfaction, ensuring your clients turn to you for their next event. 

6. Partner with Other Local Businesses 

Collaborate with local businesses, such as event planners, florists, and event venues to access a larger pool of new clients and build strong relationships that drive repeat business. These partnerships can provide a steady stream of catering clients and open doors to larger-scale events.  

Collaborating with other businesses also generates opportunities to pitch custom catering proposals tailored to specific events, expanding your reach in the local market.

Using Technology to Your Advantage 

7. Invest in Catering Management Software 

Streamline your catering operations with software for order management, delivery schedules, and inventory tracking. Integrating advanced catering software with your current systems ensures smooth operations, reduces errors, and positions you to manage more catering customers. 

Advanced tools empower your catering company to handle large-scale orders, seamlessly coordinate deliveries, and track performance, ensuring client satisfaction at every step. 

8. Utilize Online Marketing Tools 

Targeted advertising, from Google Ads to social media campaigns, accelerates reaching new catering clients. Use your advertising platforms’ analytics tools to review engagement and refine your strategies. 

Catering Sales Tactics 

9. Offer Promotions and Discounts 

Limited-time discounts not only help secure large orders but also work as an effective strategy to increase catering sales during off-peak seasons. Examples include: 

• Discounts for first-time clients. 
• Bonus items for orders above a certain threshold. 

10. Implement a Referral Program

Offer incentives like discounts or free add-ons to encourage your existing clients to refer friends and colleagues. Word-of-mouth is a powerful tool in any service-based business. 

Customer Service Excellence 

11. Gather and Use Feedback 

Ask for customer feedback after every catering event. Use tools like online surveys or follow-up calls to understand what went well and where you can improve. 

12. Deliver Memorable Experiences 

From the first inquiry to post-event follow-up, ensure every interaction with your staff leaves a positive impression with your customers. Happy clients are more likely to recommend your catering services to others. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting More Catering Orders

How do you attract catering customers? 

Attracting catering customers requires a mix of strategic marketing, the right channels, and exceptional service. Start by building a professional online presence with a mobile-optimized website and active social media accounts. 

Display client testimonials, high-quality photos of your dishes, and success stories from past events. Offer targeted discounts, referral programs, or exclusive deals for first-time clients. Networking with event venues, event planners, and other local businesses also connects you to potential clients. 

How can I improve my catering service? 

Improving your catering service starts with focusing on quality and consistency. Customize your menus to accommodate diverse dietary preferences and keep your offerings fresh with seasonal options. Use catering software to streamline order management and delivery logistics, ensuring prompt and accurate service. 

Prioritize customer satisfaction by gathering feedback after every event and acting on it. Training your staff to provide excellent service and keeping clear communication with clients is also critical for delivering a seamless experience. 

What is the secret to a successful catering business? 

The secret to a successful catering business is combining outstanding service with effective business practices. Develop brand-aligned marketing materials and a professional online presence to maintain a magnetic brand identity. 

Expand your reach by building partnerships with event venues and local businesses. Use technology like catering management software to improve operations, reduce errors, and handle large orders easily. Finally, continuously expect and adapt to trends, such as sustainability and health-conscious menus, to meet evolving client demands. 

What are the 7 Ps of marketing a catering business? 

The 7 Ps of marketing a catering business are: 

1. Product: Offer high-quality dishes and menu options tailored to your target market. 
2. Price: Set competitive pricing while ensuring profitability. Offer value-added deals like bundles or discounts for large orders. 
3. Place: Ensure your services are available in key locations and through convenient online platforms. 
4. Promotion: Leverage SEO, social media, and referral programs to attract new clients. 
5. People: Train your staff to deliver excellent service, ensuring customer satisfaction at every touchpoint. 
6. Process: Streamline your operations with efficient workflows, such as online ordering and delivery coordination. 
7. Physical Evidence: Use branding elements like logos, packaging, and professional-grade marketing materials to leave a lasting impression. 

What This Means for Your Business 

Growing your catering orders involves a mix of innovation, technology, and relationship-building. By perfecting your digital presence, elevating your catering service, and maintaining strong client relationships, you’ll attract more customers and secure sustainable growth for your catering business. 

Whether you’re starting now or ready to expand, these strategies position your catering business for long-term success in an already competitive market. 

Ready to take the next step? Download our free eBook, How to Maximize Digital Ordering for Restaurants, to learn how to streamline your operations and grow your business today! 

Need to get your catering tech stack in order? Book a demo now to discover our catering software firsthand.