Top Catering Trends for the Corporate Market

Making your corporate event stand out depends on a number of factors – but catering has to be the priority. Whatever the occasion, it’s usually the food that people remember the most and so it’s important to consider this carefully. Showcasing fresh ideas and flavours, and creative presentation is equally important for the caterer as it is for the client, ensuring that events remain memorable for all the right reasons.
 
One of the biggest trends we’ve seen recently in corporate catering is a return to British cuisine and classic dishes – all with a twist. Building on the great British feeling of last year with the Diamond Jubilee and Olympics, this concept continues to be very popular. Personalised and bespoke offerings are still important and while innovative elements are key, there is a sense of taking things back to basics.  
 
So just what is being served up?
 
1. Sweet and savoury twists – canapés such as sesame crusted salmon lollipops are set to be a huge success for the corporate market. This savoury take on a traditional dessert concept brings a different and quirky element to drinks receptions

2. Part comfort, part creativity – recognized and favoured homely dishes combining the elegance and presentation similar to that found in restaurants. For example, a miniature Shepherd’s pie within a trio of lamb main course

3. Back to basics – treating guests to an array of British favourites with a difference, provides a great talking point. Canapés of baked crumpets with Welsh rarebit and grilled tomato as an alternative starter. Or  fresh raspberry bakewell tarts with English cream tea ice cream for an after dinner treat

4. Bespoke and personalised menus. One way to achieve this is through locally sourced produce – it can often be a more cost effective option too and shows guests that sustainability matters to the company

5. Buffet style dessert stations where people help themselves are a great way to encourage guest interaction and offer more choice. This can also be achieved through dessert platters served to each table. Touches like this add a fun element to proceedings and make the event more memorable.

Any comments? Email sarah@mashmedia.net