Caviar carts, sensorial cocktails and corporate events that emphasize flexibility.
Those are just a few of the 2025 industry trends identified by Elite Catering + Event Professionals (ECEP), a collaborative network of leaders from the world’s top catering and hospitality organizations. The organization released the ECEP 2025 Trends Report, compiled during this year’s ECEP Symposium in Napa, California.
From large festivals to intricate and intimate gatherings, we who work in the events space generate our fair share of waste and carbon emissions. Single-use décor, mass-produced materials and short-lived installations all contribute to a cycle of consumption that can strain our planet’s resources.
But what if we could shift this narrative—not by compromising creativity or experience, but by rethinking the way events are designed and executed?
A growing movement within the industry is proving that it’s possible. And at the heart of that movement is a concept that’s known to us all: rentals.
A $10 million lawsuit would be the nail in the coffin for nearly every hospitality business. However, the number of nuclear verdicts continues to rise. Recent data shows that U.S. juries awarded more than $14.5 billion in nuclear verdicts in 2023—a 15-year high.
Society Insurance has spent 110 years helping protect businesses and has seen firsthand how nuclear verdicts have evolved in the U.S. The company outlines below what a nuclear verdict is, their alarming rate of increase, and precautions for hospitality businesses to take to better protect themselves against these devastating verdicts.
When you’re catering for a crowd, consistency is key. With AUSTIN BLUES® Smoked Meats, you can delight guests with authentic, pitmaster-crafted barbeque that’s flavorful and authentic—every time.
Pitmasters in Texas smoke AUSTIN BLUES® Smoked Meats in rotisserie-style pits for up to 16 hours over 100% hardwood logs. With deep-pink smoke rings and beautiful bark, the simply seasoned and unsauced meats give chefs the ability to add their own personal stamp to every mouthwatering plate.
Since 1961, Robot Coupe has understood the importance of efficiency and precision in the professional kitchen.
It’s no surprise the company that created the food processor has continued to innovate products that simplify food preparation and make life easier for busy, demanding chefs.
Today, all aspects of foodservice operations are under scrutiny, from sourcing to water conservation to food waste. Consumers and lawmakers are increasingly pushing the foodservice industry to adopt practices that will get us closer to creating a sustainable food ecosystem.
This heightened awareness creates unique opportunities for caterers to stand out. Businesses that embrace this shift can refresh their brand identity, attract eco-conscious clients and potentially command premium pricing.
Change and upheaval can be powerful catalysts for action. This was precisely the case for the founding members of Elite Catering + Event Professionals (ECEP) as they faced the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, which brought a devastating ripple effect to their livelihoods. The catering industry came to a complete standstill, with no relief in sight.
The idea of forming a group with advocacy at its core quickly gained momentum. “Our industry was in dire need of advocacy, leadership and collaboration,” says Susan Lacz, a founding member of ECEP and its inaugural president.
The rich, warm hue of Mocha Mousse—Pantone’s Color of the Year 2025—is adding sophistication to both desserts and décor. Caterer members of ECEP have embraced the earthy brown tone, creating irresistible desserts in the indulgent shade.
At the annual symposium for Elite Catering + Event Professionals (ECEP), top catering business owners come together with thought leaders to exchange ideas and best practices. From HR and operations to culinary, kitchen, sales and finance, the event is a dynamic gathering of collective hospitality wisdom. Attendees leave with actionable insights designed to elevate their business and further the relationships started that week.
As ECEP prepares for its 2025 Symposium in Napa Valley, California, we’ve summarized five of the most impactful sessions from previous symposiums, with actionable strategies to help any catering business grow and prosper.
Atlanta-based Proof of the Pudding, a leader in foodservice management and catering for sports and entertainment arenas and college stadiums, continues to partner with Division 1 colleges, helping them to drive premium revenue and elevate food and beverage offerings.
