When it comes to planning your company’s big events, finding your perfect catering partner is an important decision.
Abbots events started off back in 2008 with The Toasted Sandwich Co, making freshly made toasties, jacket potatoes and delicious filter coffee. In 2015, we really hit our stride! Since then, we’ve had the pleasure of serving delicious food at some of the UK’s most prestigious events and shows locally and across the UK.
Our team is a lively mix of professional caterers, talented chefs, and event experts. We are committed to delivering excellence from start to finish for every event we do.
Whether you’re planning a corporate lunch for a meeting with important clients, a team-building day with lunch delivery, or catering for an industry event, we know that the quality of the food and service you offer can make or break the success of your event.
In this article, we explore the 10 key factors to consider when looking for your perfect corporate catering partner which we hope will be us:
- A wide range of food to choose from. A varied menu is key when choosing the right catering partner. We have a wide range of choices from our fresh, tasty artisan sandwiches and salads on our daily delivery menus great for internal training sessions as well as client lunches, through to street food options from around the world served from food trucks for product launches and high-end hospitality catering for corporate events. Covering all of the main dietary requirements in your main menu can ensure that the offering is inclusive. Our menus offer a balance of flavours and textures, making it suitable for a wide range of corporate events and gatherings.
- Quality ingredients. Using quality ingredients in corporate catering is the secret to serving up unforgettable food. Here at abbots events we always use fresh, high-quality ingredients to create delicious and visually appealing dishes. We also pay close attention to our buffet set ups, making sure the foods look attractive, after all we eat with our eyes, and we know that the quality of the presentation is as important as the food.
- Reliable. You need a partner you can trust to deliver on their promises, show up on time, and provide excellent service. Look for caterers with a proven track record of reliability and professionalism. You can check references and read reviews. Having a reliable caterer will give you peace of mind knowing that your event is in safe hands.
- Adaptable. Corporate events can be unpredictable. Your caterer needs to be able to adapt to unexpected changes and out of the ordinary venues. We have worked in so many quirky venues such as a clearing in the middle of a private woods, but our most unusual is probably a limestone quarry with a very steep slope! Find someone who can handle last-minute changes and special requests with ease. Flexibility is key to keeping things running smoothly.
- Excellent service. Outstanding service can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Look for a
catering team that is not only skilled in cuisine but also excels in hospitality. From the initial planning stages to the event execution and beyond, you want a partner who is attentive, responsive, and committed to exceeding your expectations. Exceptional service will leave a lasting impression on your guests and reflect positively on your organisation. Read how we provided culinary excellence at the TCS&D Awards Dinner. - Budget-friendly options. While quality should never be compromised, it’s important to find a caterer that can work within your budget. Look for transparent pricing structures and packages you can customise that allow you to maximise value without sacrificing quality. Abbots events will always work with you to create a menu that fits your budget while still delivering on taste, presentation, and excellent service.
- Testimonials and referrals. Before committing to a catering partner, do your homework. Seek out reviews, testimonials, and recommendations from past clients. Hearing about other people’s experiences can provide valuable insights into a caterer’s strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision. We receive testimonials from happy clients all the time. This is the typical kind of feedback we receive:
‘’ Abbots Events provide fantastic food, great coffee – competent and professional planning, and courteous staff. Highly recommended.’’
Name, job title, company
8. Tasting the food. We highly recommend that you schedule a tasting session so that you can sample your caterer’s offerings firsthand. This is your chance to rate the quality, presentation, and flavour of the food, making sure it is what you want and meets with your vision for the event. Pay close attention to the freshness of the ingredients, the creativity of the dishes, and the overall culinary experience.
9. Food hygiene and safety standards. Make sure your caterer maintains stringent food handling and hygiene practices, including proper storage, preparation, and serving procedures. Check their ability to accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions safely and enquire about staff training in food safety and COVID precautions. Confirm that the caterer carries liability insurance to protect against any unforeseen incidents.
1o. Alcoholic drinks. Alcohol is often a welcome addition to an evening corporate function especially a fundraising event, holiday party, or annual meeting. It is important to confirm that your chosen corporate caterer is licensed to serve alcoholic beverages. Beyond the legality, it’s worth considering the appropriateness of offering alcohol based on the nature of your event. While a well-chosen drink menu might be fitting for entertaining potential clients or business partners, events like training seminars may call for a focus on non-alcoholic drinks. Striking the right balance will ensure your guests have an enjoyable experience without risking overindulgence.
Choosing the right caterer for your corporate event might seem like a daunting task. By making sure you select a menu with a wide choice of delicious food and a partner you can be sure will deliver on taste, service, and budget you can guarantee the success of your event.
We’d love to have a chat with you about your next event. Please contact the team to find out how we can help make your event a resounding success.