Catering Trends: Staying Ahead in a Dynamic Industry

The catering industry is experiencing a remarkable transformation, driven by changing consumer preferences and technological innovations. Whether you're running a small catering business or managing large-scale events, staying ahead of industry trends is crucial for success.

Some caterers start their journey after culinary school, while others transition from restaurant management or event planning. No matter your background, understanding current market dynamics and emerging trends can help position your business for growth.

Let's explore how the catering industry is evolving and what it means for your business in 2024.

Catering Trends from the Toast Restaurant Trends Report

Insights from the Toast Restaurant Trends Report highlight several key trends in the U.S. catering landscape:

Surge in Catering Transactions: Catering transactions have skyrocketed, with same-store orders increasing by an impressive 71% in Q4 2023 compared to Q4 2022. This growth is largely driven by the holiday season, which is traditionally busy for catering services, as organizations and families host end-of-year parties and gatherings.

Online Ordering Growth: Approximately 30% of the increase in catering transactions came from the newly launched Catering Online Ordering platform, introduced in Q3 2023. This shift towards digital ordering underscores the importance of convenience and accessibility for today’s consumers, making it easier for them to plan and execute events without the hassle.

Preference for Bakery and Dessert Items: Restaurants specializing in bakery items, coffees, teas, and desserts accounted for about 32% of all catering transactions in Q4 2023. This trend indicates a growing demand for indulgent options during the holiday season, as consumers seek comfort foods and festive treats to enhance their celebrations.

Comfort Foods Dominate Orders: Cold weather in Q4 drove a preference for warm comfort foods, leading to a significant increase in orders for dishes like soups, curries, and ramen. For example, soup orders rose by 25% compared to earlier quarters, highlighting consumers' desire for hearty meals that provide warmth and satisfaction during the colder months.

Weekday Catering Boom: Interestingly, catering orders were less frequent on weekends, with Saturdays seeing a 36% decrease compared to the weekly average. Instead, Tuesdays and Wednesdays emerged as the busiest days for catering orders, suggesting that many clients prefer to host events during the week when restaurants may have lower foot traffic.

These insights from Toast's data provide a snapshot of the current catering landscape, demonstrating how seasonal changes and consumer preferences influence catering trends. Understanding these patterns will enable catering businesses to adjust their offerings and marketing strategies, ensuring they meet the evolving demands of their clients.

Top 10 Catering Trends

1. Sustainable Catering

The push for environmental responsibility has become a defining feature of modern catering. Clients increasingly seek caterers who demonstrate genuine commitment to sustainability, from ingredient sourcing to waste management. This shift isn't just about marketing—it's about creating a business model that considers environmental impact at every step of the operation.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Sourcing local and organic ingredients

• Implementing zero-waste practices

• Using compostable packaging materials

• Tracking and reporting environmental impact

The growing regulations and certifications regarding sustainability, such as the Green Restaurant Association certification, indicate that this trend is part of a long-term shift. More clients are prioritizing vendors who can prove their environmental stewardship, signaling sustainability's integral role in the future of catering.

2. Plant-Based Menus

The plant-based movement has transformed from a niche market to a mainstream requirement. With the global vegan food market expected to reach $31.4 billion by 2026, caterers are reimagining their menus to include sophisticated plant-based options that appeal to all guests, not just those following specific diets.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Offering complete vegan and vegetarian menus

• Creating allergen-free alternatives

• Developing creative plant-based presentations

• Training staff in dietary restriction handling

3. Customizable and Interactive Experiences

The dining experience has evolved beyond passive consumption to active engagement. Interactive food stations create memorable experiences that encourage guest participation and social interaction, making events more dynamic and entertaining while allowing customization of meals.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Live cooking demonstrations

• Build-your-own meal stations

• Chef-guided tasting experiences

• Customizable dish assembly

3. Global Flavors and Fusion

As clients become more adventurous with their palates, caterers are expanding their culinary horizons. This trend reflects our increasingly connected world, where traditional cultural boundaries in cuisine are blending to create exciting new flavor combinations and dining experiences.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Incorporating international cuisine options

• Blending traditional and modern techniques

• Offering authentic ethnic dishes

• Creating fusion menu items

The sustained popularity of international cuisine in restaurants and social media platforms showcases the trend's longevity, with diverse culinary experiences becoming increasingly sought after at events.

4. Miniature and Bite-Sized Foods

Small plates and bite-sized offerings have seen a 45% increase in popularity since 2022. Miniature plates and appetizers are gaining popularity for easier sharing and snacking at events, and the rise of social dining and networking events has led to a preference for small, shareable portions. Miniature foods encourage conversation and socialization, making them ideal for receptions and informal gatherings.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Creating individual portion servings

• Developing innovative presentation methods

• Offering tasting flights

• Designing portable food options

The ongoing demand for small plates at high-profile events suggests that this trend will continue. As events become more interactive, bite-sized offerings fit well with modern social dynamics.

5. Health-Conscious Options

With 73% of consumers actively seeking healthier food options, health-conscious catering has moved beyond simple calorie counting. Today's clients expect nutritionally balanced options that don't compromise on taste or presentation. A recent industry survey shows that 65% of event planners now specifically request health-focused menu options.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Offering nutritionally balanced options

• Creating portion-controlled servings

• Providing detailed nutritional information

• Accommodating dietary restrictions

Health-focused catering options are becoming more prevalent, reflecting a broader societal shift toward wellness and nutrition.

6. Technology Integration

Technology is increasingly integrated into catering operations, streamlining everything from menu planning to event management. From initial consultation to final service, technology streamlines processes while providing enhanced experiences for both clients and guests.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Implementing digital ordering systems

• Using planning and management software

• Offering virtual tasting sessions

• Providing real-time event updates

The ongoing investment in technology by successful catering businesses indicates that this trend is not just a passing trend but rather a critical evolution in the industry.

7. Gourmet Comfort Food

Comfort food has evolved from simple home cooking to sophisticated culinary experiences. Modern caterers are reimagining familiar favorites with premium ingredients and elegant presentations, creating dishes that combine nostalgia with refinement. 

This trend bridges the gap between sophisticated catering and approachable cuisine, appealing to clients who want to provide their guests with both emotional connection and culinary excellence.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Elevating classic dishes

• Using premium ingredients

• Creating sophisticated presentations

• Offering nostalgic flavors

The enduring popularity of comfort foods in restaurants and catering menus indicates lasting appeal. As comfort foods continue to evoke fond memories, their place in catering will remain strong.

8. Zero-Waste Catering

Environmental consciousness has made zero-waste catering a growing priority for both clients and caterers. Beyond meeting customer demand, comprehensive waste reduction programs are proving to be both environmentally and economically beneficial. Caterers who implement these initiatives often find they can reduce costs while attracting environmentally conscious clients, creating a win-win situation for business and sustainability.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Implementing portion control

• Donating excess food

• Using sustainable packaging

• Composting food waste

A growing number of businesses implementing zero-waste strategies suggests this trend is not just a passing fad. Clients are increasingly asking caterers about their waste management practices, making it a significant factor in their decision-making process.

9. Local Sourcing and Seasonality

The farm-to-table movement continues to gain momentum, with 38% of consumers indicating they're more likely to choose restaurants that source locally. This approach not only ensures fresher ingredients but also supports local economies and reduces environmental impact. 

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Partnering with local farms

• Creating seasonal menu rotations

• Highlighting regional specialties

• Supporting local food artisans

The strong community support for local businesses and sustainable practices suggests this trend will endure. Caterers who highlight their local sourcing efforts often find increased loyalty among clients.

10. Food and Beverage Pairing Experiences

Thoughtful beverage pairings have become an essential element of modern catering experiences. While wine pairings remain popular, the trend has expanded significantly to embrace craft cocktails, artisanal beverages, and sophisticated non-alcoholic options. This holistic approach to food and drink creates more memorable experiences while catering to diverse preferences and dietary requirements.

Key aspects of this trend include:

• Offering curated wine pairings

• Creating craft cocktail experiences

• Developing non-alcoholic alternatives

• Providing beverage education

Embracing Innovation in Catering

The catering industry continues to evolve with changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Successful catering businesses are those that can adapt to these trends while maintaining quality and efficiency in their operations.

Whether you're an established catering company or just starting out, incorporating these trends can help you:

• Meet changing customer demands

• Improve operational efficiency

• Stand out in a competitive market

• Build long-term client relationships

Remember that while trends come and go, the fundamentals of great service and quality food remain constant. Choose the trends that align with your business model and customer base, and implement them in ways that enhance rather than compromise your core offerings.