When planning a corporate event in Australia, one of the key considerations is catering – after all, people have to eat, right?
Providing delicious food that meets the dietary preferences and requirements of all attendees is essential and in this article, we’re going to explore the cost of corporate catering per head in Australia and provide insights into how much it typically costs to feed a group of 40 to 200 people.
Additionally, we’re going to look at the best types of catering for corporate events, the importance of serving food, and the benefits of hiring a professional catering service.
Let’s tuck in!
How Much Does Corporate Catering Cost per Head in Australia?
So, how much does corporate catering cost per head, on average, in Australia? Here are a few things to consider:
- Prices for corporate catering in Australia can vary based on several factors, including the venue location, menu selections, level of service, and indeed the number of attendees.
- On average, corporate catering costs around $20 to $90 per head in Australia, depending on the complexity and quality of the menu.
- Basic catering options, such as finger food or sandwiches, tend to be more affordable, while gourmet meals or specialised dietary options may incur higher costs.
- The cost per head may decrease for larger events due to economies of scale and bulk pricing options offered by caterers (in other words, catering for 40 people will typically cost more per head than catering for 200 people).
How Much Does It Cost to Feed 40-200 People?
With those averages in mind, how much would it likely cost to feed 40 to 200 people at a corporate event in Australia?
- Again, for a corporate event with 40 to 200 attendees, the overall cost of catering will depend on the desired menu, the level of service, and any additional extras or customisation.
- As a general estimate, budgeting between $2,000 and $10,000+ is reasonable for feeding a group of this size.
- The cost can be broken down further, with a range of approximately $50 to $100 per person for a well-rounded and satisfying catering experience.
- Keep in mind that these figures are approximate and can vary based on individual preferences and event requirements, however, it should give you a rough ballpark figure.
What Type of Catering Is Best for a Corporate Event?
Now onto the important question: what type of catering is best for a corporate event? Here are some suggestions to give you some inspiration:
- Buffet-style catering is a popular choice for corporate events as it offers a variety of food options and allows guests to serve themselves. It also encourages mingling and networking which can be very beneficial for a corporate event.
- Plated or sit-down meals provide a more formal dining experience and are suitable for events with a structured agenda, such as conferences or award ceremonies.
- Cocktail or finger food catering can be ideal for more casual or networking-focused events, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of bite-sized food options while socialising.
How Important Is It to Serve Food at a Corporate Event?
Is it really that important to serve food at a corporate event? Is it your responsibility to see that everyone is fed or would it be reasonable to put on an event without any planned catering?
The reality is that, much like providing your attendees with comfortable seating, serving food at a corporate event is very important indeed. Here’s why:
- It enhances the overall attendee experience and creates a positive impression of the event and the hosting company.
- Food provides an opportunity for networking and socialising, as it brings people together and encourages conversation.
- Well-fed attendees are more likely to stay engaged and focused throughout the event, improving productivity and the overall success of the gathering. In other words, if you have a lot planned for your event and you expect your attendees to make it to the end in one piece, you must fill their bellies with quality food.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Professional Catering Service for an Event?
Finally, let’s take a look at some of the key advantages of hiring corporate caterers to handle the food at your event:
- Expertise and Experience: Professional caterers have the knowledge and experience to create menus that cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences – which is highly important today. They can also handle logistics, staffing, and equipment, ensuring a seamless catering experience, thus taking the pressure off you during the planning and execution process.
- Time and Stress Savings: By outsourcing catering to professionals, event organisers can focus on other important aspects of the event, such as program planning and guest management.
- High-Quality Food and Presentation: Professional caterers prioritise the quality of ingredients and the presentation of dishes, creating a memorable dining experience for attendees.
- Customisation and Menu Flexibility: Caterers can work closely with event organisers to design menus that align with the event’s theme, dietary restrictions, and budgetary constraints.
- Efficient Service and Clean-up: Professional caterers manage food service efficiently, ensuring timely delivery and clean-up, leaving event organisers free to enjoy the event without worrying about logistical details.
Conclusion
Here’s a brief recap of what we’ve learned:
- Corporate catering costs in Australia typically range from $20 to $90 per head, depending on various factors such as location, menu complexity, and service level.
- Feeding a group of 40 to 200 people at a corporate event may cost approximately $2,000 to $10,000, with an average of $50 to $100 per person.
- Choosing the right type of catering, whether buffet-style, plated meals, or cocktail finger food, depends on the event’s formality and objectives.
- Serving food at corporate events is crucial for creating a positive experience, fostering networking opportunities, and maintaining attendee engagement.
- Hiring a professional catering service offers expertise, time savings, high-quality food, customisation options, and efficient service, thus ensuring a successful and memorable event.
And that about sums it up! While catering for such a large number of people at a corporate event can be expensive, the advantages of doing so far outweigh the drawbacks. The fact is, a well-fed set of attendees are going to be far more engaged, as opposed to a large group of people who have to go through a long and cumbersome event without any breaks to eat and unwind.
Want to smash your next corporate event? Go all out on the food and you’ll be well on your way to a successful day to be remembered.