A Close Look at Commercial Off-Site Caterers 16.1 O.H. 16.1

Off-Site Caterers and Mobile-Unit Caterers Some of these businesses have no on-site dining facilities. Others such as hotels/restaurants may do off-site catering in addition to on-site food services. Many offer pre-written banquet menus. They offer very customized services and utilize facilities that are often not ideal. Mobile-Unit Caterers: These businesses bring simple foods directly to customers. They prepare (purchase) food and: Hire route drivers who travel on scheduled routes. Lease vehicles to independent contractors who sell to their own customers. 16.2 O.H. 16.2

A Close Look at Commercial Off-Site Catered Event 16.3 O.H. 16.3

Catering Activities: Day of Event 16.4 O.H. 16.4

Organizational Chart for a Large Off-Site Catered Event 16.5 O.H. 16.5

Questions About the Off-Site Location Who is responsible for the site’s user fees, if any? How/when will equipment/other items be delivered? How will products be delivered? What about guest/employee parking? Where will dining/buffet tables be placed? Are tables/chairs adequate/safe? What about alcoholic beverages? Who is responsible for upkeep/clean-up of the facility? 16.6 O.H. 16.6

Challenges! Challenges! Potential for guest count attrition Use of third-party companies (event planners) Trend toward buffets Potential for “crisis” situations Safety and sanitation concerns Technology Focus on the market 16.7 O.H. 16.7