Holidays Ring Up Catering Sales

CHICAGO—A new study from Technomic reveals many consumers are opting for catered foods during the holidays, which means increased business for restaurant and retail operators. In fact, substantial off-premise catering opportunities may begin prior to the big event.

“Consumers generally entertain at home during the holiday season, but many tell us that they are busy prepping for the big day and don’t want to worry about preparing meals for family and houseguests the day before. Nor do they want to cook for a large gathering two days in a row,” said Melissa Wilson, principal, Technomic. “Party platters and prepared meals are appealing time-saving alternatives to cooking, providing important catering opportunities for restaurants and retail operators.”

Findings also revealed 33% of consumers indicate that, for the holidays, they are more likely to want purchased food to look like they made it themselves. Among consumers who reported buying prepared foods for various holidays, the most popular occasions are Christmas (66%) and Thanksgiving (61%), followed by Fourth of July (53%), New Year’s Day (48%) and New Year’s Eve (47%). Also, 36% of consumers indicate that they plan on entertaining at home more often over the next year, whereas 51% say they will entertain at home about the same.