As the catering industry grows annually, it’s no surprise that there are wholesalers that specialize in wholesale sales of catering supplies and equipment. That includes not only disposable tableware and cutlery but also equipment such as portable refrigeration solutions, chafing dishes, and beverage dispensers. Generally speaking, these products fall under the broad category of restaurant supplies. Thus, caterers have the option to use distributors of wholesale restaurant supplies, broadliners, or specialized catering equipment suppliers. In the following paragraphs, we’ll shed some light on catering equipment distributors, the products they sell, and what businesses partner with them. Interested in the catering industry? Check out our posts on catering business ideas and how to start a catering business.
Key takeaway: Distributors of catering supplies and equipment offer a wide range of products for restaurants and catering businesses. They often have various customization options and can offer rentals such as chairs, tables, and other outdoor equipment.
What Are Catering Equipment Distributors
These are suppliers that specialize in partnering with catering companies. They offer various options in terms of wholesale tableware, serving solutions, equipment, and other subcategories. Furthermore, specialized catering equipment distributors might also offer different customization and branding options. This makes them a more suitable choice for some ghost kitchens and caterers compared to broadline distributors. It’s not very common for wholesalers to limit themselves to serving just one type of business such as catering companies. That’s why most distributors in this field also find clients in other fields of the food service sector. That includes small establishments such as food trucks, cafes, and bakeries. Restaurant businesses can also partner with catering equipment distributors, especially if they offer catering services.
Wholesalers of catering suppliers act as middlemen between manufacturers and food service businesses. As such, they often need to handle various logistical challenges and forecast demand. It’s not uncommon for caterers to work directly with manufacturers if they want to get even better wholesale prices. However, producers usually focus on a specific product category and can’t offer a variety of items in different subcategories.
Tableware suppliers often market their products and services to catering companies as well. That’s because they can offer various types of dinnerware, drinkware, and other supplies. Caterers also purchase miscellaneous goods such as wholesale janitorial supplies. Some of them might opt to work with specialized distributors in these fields or request such goods from their catering equipment distributors.
Products Sold by Catering Supplies Distributors
Suppliers of catering equipment offer a wide range of products in different categories. Let’s examine the major ones.
- Disposable supplies. That includes various drinkware, dinnerware, and other types of tableware. Although most caterers offer single-use plates and cups, some also offer washable and reusable ones. That’s part of the catering and restaurant industry’s effort to switch to sustainable solutions.
- Equipment and appliances. Popular products in this category include cooking appliances, mobile kitchens, and other equipment that is specific to the catering sector.
- Furniture. Folding tables, linens, and tents are just some of the furniture items offered by catering companies. By renting out furniture, they can increase their revenue and offer a full-scale service to their customers.
- Serving tools and utensils. That includes not only trays, platters, and serving utensils, but also drink dispensers and mobile bar equipment.
- Storage and packaging solutions. Food prepared by catering companies usually needs to be transported to another location. That’s why packaging solutions used by catering businesses need to protect food during transportation. Freezers and refrigerators, including mobile ones, are also used by caterers.
- Table decorations. Catering companies might often rent various types of table decorations to their customers. They can vary from centerpieces to table runners and candle holders. In some cases, these products need to be branded or customized and cannot be reused for another special occasion.
- Accessories. There are hundreds of different accessories and tools that are sold by catering equipment distributors. That subcategory includes both high-demand products such as napkins and less-frequently bought items such as staff uniforms.
What Businesses Buy from Catering Equipment Distributors
Although these specialized suppliers work primarily with caterers, they are not the only ones purchasing from them. Some catering equipment distributors might also offer tableware for restaurants or a wide array of restaurant supplies. Thus, different types of restaurants might also purchase from them. Hotels, cafes, and other food service businesses might also buy wholesale goods from catering equipment distributors.
Corporate offices often organize events for their customers or employees. Thus, they might purchase supplies from catering equipment distributors. Furthermore, they might need equipment for a staff kitchen or cafeteria.
Schools, universities, and healthcare institutions also purchase various types of supplies for their cafeterias. Some of these institutions have incorporated eco-friendly practices and buy reusable items instead of single-use goods.
Frequently Asked Questions about Catering Equipment Distributors
Whether you’re a business owner interested in the tableware market or wish to know how to pick sustainable suppliers for your catering business, there are multiple resources available on our website. Check out the answers to some common questions about the business of catering equipment distributors below.
How to Choose a Catering Equipment Distributor?
An important part of finding suppliers is to check the terms and conditions they offer. That’s why things like flexibility and minimum order quantities (MOQ) are important factors when choosing between catering equipment distributors. Some businesses also want to partner with wholesalers that can deliver food products and other items used in day-to-day operations. In that case, ordering from broadline distributors might be a more suitable option. Prices also play a major role in choosing between wholesalers of catering supplies. However, keep in mind that distributors with the lowest prices might have less flexibility or a narrow product catalog.
How to Grow a Catering Supplies Distribution Business?
If you specialize in wholesale catering supplies, the best way to grow your business is to scale it. You can do so geographically by expanding to other areas and widening your distribution network. Another way to grow a distribution business is to expand your product offerings. By including additional items, you can find customers in other niche markets. Make sure to also focus on selling both online and in physical stores. Although many consider the brick-and-mortar model to be in decline, a lot of individual and business customers might prefer to buy from physical stores where they can inspect items and get a consultation.
What Are the Trends Among Catering Equipment Distributors?
The catering industry has seen growth in recent years. A growing number of people prefer to celebrate special occasions outdoors and rely on catering businesses. Furthermore, restaurants and other food service businesses have also started offering catering services. Sustainability has been a major trend in the sector. Both consumers and manufacturers focus on eco-friendly types of tableware. Technologies are also trendy among catering equipment distributors. Thanks to eCommerce catalogs, ordering software, and automation solutions, wholesalers can streamline various aspects of their business.
BlueCart: The Solution for Catering Equipment Distributors
If you’re looking for reliable wholesale ordering software, BlueCart is your all-in-one solution. Thanks to our platform, suppliers can easily increase B2B sales, automate various business processes, and make ordering easier for their customers. Schedule a free demo today and examine the power of BlueCart’s platform for wholesalers.