May 2024

A Tale of Two Kitchens

While a kitchen renovation may be high on the wish list, it often gets relegated to the backburner due to cost, disruption and the time you know it will take. And yet, it’s often a major key to growth.

Consider the stories of Ridgewells Catering in Washington, D.C., and 24 Carrots Catering & Events in Costa Mesa, California, two of the largest caterers in the country. The first stands on the precipice of a significant renovation. The latter has been basking in the success of its extensive renovation since 2018. Both owners understand that while kitchen rehauls present many challenges, the investment will pay off for years to come.

Brave New Kitchens

When it comes to designing professional kitchens, “efficiency and flexibility will never go out of style, regardless of the trends,” says Marisa Mangani, president of Mise En Place Design in Sarasota, Florida. “It’s all about making money, saving steps, minimizing labor and having built-in flexibility to account for menu changes and staffing changes.”

Managing Risk in 2024

Caution is the byword as the year progresses. The economic environment remains unsettled, especially as the presidential election presents uncertainty. Firms that tighten up their risk management practices will put themselves in a good position to get through the year successfully.

Scroll to Top