CATERING SUPPLY ESSENTIALS: EXPERT TIPS ON WHAT TO STOCK
For caterers, sourcing and maintaining the right supplies is crucial. Unlike most foodservice operators, catering involves frequent transportation of equipment and supplies, which requires durable, high-quality, and portable solutions. Whether you're setting up a new catering business or upgrading existing equipment, having the right tools can help ensure efficiency, food quality, and a smooth service experience for your clients.
At Boelter, our team of experts provide exceptional support and offer solutions to many clients in the catering sector. Over the years we’ve gleaned a wealth of knowledge of the types of catering supplies that are essential for any operation. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you set up or re-stock your catering supplies.
Prepping the Kitchen
A well-equipped kitchen is the foundation of any successful catering operation. Since caterers often work in tight spaces and prepare food in large quantities, selecting versatile and efficient equipment is key. Combi ovens are among the most useful tools as they can bake, roast, poach, and stew using a combination of convection and steam cooking. This ability to cook different items simultaneously makes them an asset in high-volume kitchens.
Tilt skillets are another must-have piece of prep equipment. These units allow caterers to fry, grill, steam, and sauté all in one piece of equipment. The Vulcan VE30 heats up 20% faster than standard models, making it ideal for efficient large batch cooking. Ventless kitchen equipment has also become increasingly popular with foodservice operators. High-speed ovens, dishmachines, and induction cooktops allow caterers to operate in spaces without traditional exhaust hoods, adding flexibility to their setup.
Safe Travels for Food and Equipment
A smooth catering service depends on the ability to transport food and supplies safely. Holding cabinets that can switch between hot and cold settings ensure food arrives at the correct temperature, and heavy-duty casters make them easy to maneuver and transport.
Insulated food carriers are another essential, and Metro’s Mightylite Pan Carriers stand out due to their lightweight design and superior temperature retention. These carriers can also be stacked on rolling carts, making them very easy to transport from the kitchen to an event venue. Effectivey protecting fragile items like dinnerware and glassware from unwanted cracks and chips during transport is another key area to consider. Stackable plastic racks with dividers provide a safe way to move these items, and labeling racks simplifies sorting and setup upon arrival.
Serving Up in Style
Every catering event is unique, requiring different serving equipment to match the occasion. While aluminum trays and pans work well for informal settings, elegant chafers like Tablecraft’s Stackable Dripless Chafers add a sophisticated touch. The roll-top design allows for easy access, and the intuitive stacking feature helps save storage space when not in use. To complete the serving setup, caterers should also stock up on other essential accessories, such as serving utensils, chafer fuel, and lighters.
Setting the Table
Table settings are just as important as the food itself as they set the tone for the event. With that in mind, caterers should consider investing in tableware that is both versatile and durable. Classic white porcelain plates are great as they can adapt to any event style, while modern trends such as mix-and-match table settings, gold-accented flatware, or bold-colored dinnerware can add flair. The Mascagni II flatware line by 1880 Hospitality blends sleek modern aesthetics with classic elegance, making these flatware pieces suitable for any event type.
Durability is also a key factor when selecting tabletop supplies. Commercial-grade porcelain, such as the Sentosa collection by 1880 Hospitality, is chip-resistant and holds up to frequent transport and washing, making it an excellent investment for catering businesses looking to get extended use out of their dinnerware products.
Disposables: Serving with Convenience in Mind
While traditional tableware is essential, disposables can be a practical alternative for certain events. They eliminate concerns about breakage and reduce cleanup time, making them ideal for high-volume catering. Modern disposables offer a fantastic balance of convenience and style for added versatility. HFA inc.®'s TruFit™ and Gourmet-to-Go® lines feature recyclable aluminum steam table pans available in elegant black or gold finishes, providing an excellent option for any event space. As a bonus, Gourmet-to-Go® containers are oven and microwave-safe for easy reheating whenever needed.
Some disposable tableware options also come in elegant designs that help elevate the feel of an event. The Fineline Flairware collection includes high-quality disposable cutlery and champagne flutes that provide an upscale aesthetic. Many disposable manufacturers also offer compostable or recyclable options for eco-conscious clients, ensuring sustainability without compromising on presentation.
Cleaning Up
A caterer’s job doesn’t end when the food is served. Leaving a venue clean is essential for maintaining a good reputation and securing future business. Stocking the best cleaning supplies can help ensure that the cleanup process is as efficient and thorough as possible.
Purell Foodservice Disinfecting Wipes are a must-have, as they effectively eliminate bacteria and viruses while being safe on both hard and soft surfaces, making them ideal for quick spills and clean-ups. Other cleaning essentials include hand sanitizer, garbage bags, bus bins, and disposable gloves to maintain hygiene throughout the event and during the cleanup process.
Partnering for Success
Staying stocked up on catering supplies requires a reliable partner who can meet your needs. At Boelter, we work closely with caterers to help them source the best equipment, manage inventory, and find alternatives when needed. Whether you’re looking for high-quality kitchen tools, serving essentials, or innovative disposable solutions, our team is here to support your catering operation. Contact our team today to learn more about how Boelter can help keep meet your catering supply needs.