There are multiple types of catering supplies available on the market. Some of them are used primarily by catering businesses while others are also purchased by individuals organizing events. The catering supplies sector is often considered a subcategory of the overall restaurant supplies industry. That’s because a lot of the products are also used by food service establishments such as fast food restaurants. That includes not only disposable types of tableware but also to-go solutions, table covers, food storage containers, and more. In this post, we’ll share more about the catering supplies industry. If you’re interested in the topic, make sure to also check out our blog on wholesale restaurant supplies.
Key takeaway: Disposable tableware is most commonly associated with catering supplies. The sector also includes serving solutions and equipment used by both caterers and restaurants.
What Are Catering Supplies
The term refers to a variety of products that are used by caterers and other businesses in the food service sector. Most catering supplies are disposable products and consumables. However, catering businesses also need various tools and equipment to provide their services. That’s why they partner with broadline distributors or specialized wholesalers that also offer food storage and display solutions, wholesale tableware, and other goods.
Different Types of Catering Supplies
There are dozens of subcategories in the catering supplies niche market. Let’s examine some of the most common ones.
- Disposable tableware and supplies. From plates and salad bowls to disposable cups and napkins, there are multiple products that fall under this category. It is the branch most closely associated with catering supplies. Disposable supplies are also the highest-demand products in the sector.
- Serving and displaying solutions. As catering is most popular for events, it’s no surprise that caterers frequently use items such as drink dispensers and serving trays.
- Food storage. This subcategory includes primarily food packaging solutions, portable refrigerators and coolers, and items that preserve food’s freshness and look during transportation.
- Food preparation tools and equipment. Naturally, catering businesses also need appliances, utensils, and various tools used in food preparation. Keep in mind that they can be different from the ones used by restaurant businesses.
- Furniture. A lot of catering companies also offer furniture rentals. As such, they buy large quantities of chairs, tables, tents, and other outdoor furniture. Serving stations are also part of the catering furniture subcategory.
- Other accessories. That includes various additional items that don’t fall under any of the main categories above or are not strictly associated with catering supplies but are still needed in the industry. Examples include wholesale cleaning supplies, waiter apparel, or patio heaters.
Where to Buy Wholesale Catering Supplies
Some businesses might prefer to visit physical stores that have a variety of restaurant and catering supplies. However, since most distributors have an online presence, ordering from eCommerce suppliers has become the most popular option. That includes well-known online stores such as the WebstaurantStore or convenient marketplaces that specialize in wholesale sales such as BlueCart.
Businesses that wish to purchase catering supplies in bulk can either partner with broadliners or with specialized wholesalers. Broadline distributors are preferred by companies that wish to find suppliers that also sell goods in various other categories. Alternatively, specialized distributors might be a better choice for small businesses that don’t need such large quantities of restaurant supplies or for companies that search for a wide variety of goods.
The Catering Supplies Market
The size of the global market for catering supplies and equipment is roughly 18 billion USD. That figure includes not only disposable supplies but also catering-specific equipment such as appliances, dispensers, or chafing dishes.
Currently, the main drivers for the catering supplies market are special events and innovative business models such as ghost kitchens. The restaurant industry has been investing in catering equipment and supplies as well. Their large food preparation capabilities allow them to easily offer catering services as well. The expected growth for the catering supplies industry is between 3 and 4 percent annually.
Trends in Catering Supplies
Sustainability is a major trend among restaurant and catering suppliers. A growing number of businesses are switching from single-use plastic tableware to reusable or biodegradable options. On-site recycling bins and composting solutions have also become popular types of catering supplies.
Another trend in catering equipment is to invest in multi-functional and labor-saving equipment. Although catering supplies are primarily bought by businesses, D2C sales have been rising. That’s because a growing number of people prefer to organize their special events outdoors and purchase various catering accessories and supplies.
In terms of design, there are various trends related to food packaging and catering supplies. Buyers look for functional packaging designs that can serve as an eating container as well. There’s also been a shift towards reusable packaging such as squeeze bottles for condiments instead of single-use packages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Catering Supplies
If you are interested in the tableware market or wish to increase your B2B sales, you can find multiple resources on our website. Below are the answers to common questions regarding catering supplies and equipment.
Can Individuals Purchase Wholesale Catering Supplies?
Yes. It’s not uncommon for people to buy large quantities of catering supplies. That usually happens when organizing events. The most common places where individuals buy such products are brick-and-mortar stores for catering and restaurant supplies. These businesses offer a variety of disposable tableware and other items needed when organizing special events. Some sellers of wholesale catering supplies might have high minimum order quantities (MOQ). Online stores for restaurant supplies are also a great place to purchase such products. Most of them focus on both B2B and B2C sales and can offer a wide variety at affordable prices.
How to Choose A Distributor of Catering Supplies?
The most important factors for choosing wholesalers of catering supplies are the variety of goods sold, their pricing, and their flexibility. Naturally, like in most niches, business owners will look for an optimal ratio between wholesale prices and the quality of goods and services. Thus, distributors might increase their prices and improve their margins if they offer fast deliveries and a wide product variety.
In recent years, commitment to eco-friendly practices has become increasingly important as well. That’s why a lot of companies search for sustainable suppliers that have incorporated green procedures.
Are Catering Supplies and Equipment the Same?
Although catering equipment and supplies are often considered to be in the same category, the two terms can mean different things. When referring to catering equipment, most individuals and businesses speak of large products like serving carts, portable bars, and commercial refrigeration and cooking equipment. On the other hand, the term catering supplies is commonly associated with disposable goods such as serving trays or different types of tableware suppliers. Nevertheless, catering equipment and catering supplies are often used interchangeably. In fact, they are often considered as part of the restaurant supplies industry.
BlueCart: Where Businesses Can Easily Buy and Sell Catering Supplies
Whether you want to buy bulk tableware for restaurants or sell various types of catering equipment, BlueCart’s marketplace is an excellent option. Our platform connects buyers and sellers of wholesale goods in various fields. Furthermore, thanks to our wholesale ordering software, there are multiple additional functionalities and automation options for both buyers and sellers. Schedule a demo today and see how BlueCart can help your business.