Bill Hansen shares one of his wildest wedding stories in an excerpt from his new book, Plating Up Profits: Miami’s Catering Icon Dishes Up Lessons for Business Success As the founder of Bill Hansen Catering and CEO of Hansen Group, 55-year catering veteran Bill Hansen has seen it all when it comes to catered events. He shares his most memorable stories—and the business … [Read more...] about Expect the Unexpected
Business Tips
Preparing to Sell Your Catering Business
Nine steps to take for a successful exit strategy By Dale Vaillancourt You know the catering high you get after a successful event? Even though you’re bone-tired, you arrive home, put your feet up, and celebrate—perhaps with a cocktail—reveling in a job well done. Much like any catered event, your career will end, too. If you want to enjoy that same well-earned … [Read more...] about Preparing to Sell Your Catering Business
Eco-Friendly Strategies
Steps to ensure your business is serving sustainably By Joy Pouros, Culinary Software Services Embracing sustainability in the foodservice industry isn’t just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift that encompasses many aspects of your day-to-day operations. If that sounds intimidating or off-putting, it shouldn’t. Many sustainable practices are also just good business, … [Read more...] about Eco-Friendly Strategies
Saying “I Do” to AI
Event professionals are finding innovative ways to enhance their services by creatively using AI tools By Rachael Soete, managing director of Culinary Canvas Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a hot topic in countless industries for years, but only recently have event professionals faced the reality and impact of the tool within their profession. Since COVID, clients … [Read more...] about Saying “I Do” to AI
Close the Gen Z Gap
Three ways to serve up success with young foodservice employees By Scott Greenberg “So, what’s the most stressful part of running your operation?” I pose this question to audience members before every conference keynote. Most answer the same: “Employees.” High turnover, frequent call-outs, apathy— many foodservice employers just can’t get the stability and … [Read more...] about Close the Gen Z Gap
Managing Risk in 2024
What foodservice firms need to know about the latest operating pressures By Kim Gore, HUB International The restaurant and foodservice industry ended 2023 on a high note as consumer spending was projected by Foodservice Equipment & Supplies to hit $845.7 billion, versus $790 billion in 2022. But that was without the lift of alcohol sales, and without factoring in … [Read more...] about Managing Risk in 2024
The Power of Community
Caterer members of ECEP share best practices to help each other succeed By Liese Gardner In 1937, author Napoleon Hill coined the term “master mind” in his influential book Think and Grow Rich, which has sold more than 20 million copies. “Success does not come without the cooperation of others,” said Hill—a concept that has motivated generations of business leaders to … [Read more...] about The Power of Community
How to Market Your Venue on Instagram
Six proven ways to attract business through social media By Liese Gardner As your potential clients begin to plan a wedding or significant event, one of their first tasks will be securing a venue. This can be a big boost to caterers with preferred or exclusive status at a popular venue. In fact, being affiliated with an in-demand venue is so beneficial that some … [Read more...] about How to Market Your Venue on Instagram
Tips for Planning for 2024
How restaurants can navigate an uncertain economic climate in the new year By Ben Johnston, COO of Kapitus With ever-rising costs for supplies and staffing, the economic climate remains uncertain for 2024—even while unemployment remains low and consumer spending strong despite higher interest rates. To best navigate the uncertainties of the upcoming year, we encourage … [Read more...] about Tips for Planning for 2024
Division 1 Colleges Partner with Proof of the Pudding to Drive Revenue and Elevate F&B Offerings
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. The company currently serves eight Division 1 colleges. Proof partnered with its first D1, the University of … [Read more...] about Division 1 Colleges Partner with Proof of the Pudding to Drive Revenue and Elevate F&B Offerings