Starting a catering business can seem like a daunting task. There are so many things to consider: the kinds of clients you hope to sell to, the types of food you’ll serve, your pricing strategy, your marketing plan, and of course the equipment you’ll need to get started.
What follows is a comprehensive list of catering equipment and supplies to help you start your business off on the right foot.
Catering Equipment:
- Commercial oven: Used for baking large quantities of food. Prices start at $1,000.
- Industrial mixer: Used for mixing large batches of dough or other ingredients. Prices start at $500.
- Food processor: Used for chopping, slicing, and dicing large quantities of food. Prices start at $200.
- Chafing dishes: Used to keep food warm during service. Prices start at $50.
- Serving platters and bowls: Used to display and serve food. Prices start at $20.
- Storage containers: Used to store food before and after service. Prices start at $10.
Catering Supplies:
- Disposable plates, cups, and utensils: Used during service. Prices start at $10.
- Paper towels and napkins: Used during service. Prices start at $5.
- Trash bags: Used for cleanup after service. Prices start at $5.
- Aluminum foil: Used for food storage. Prices start at $2.
- Plastic wrap: Used for food storage. Prices start at $2.
- Ziploc bags: Used for food storage. Prices start at $1.
- Thermometers: Used to ensure food is cooked to the proper temperature. Prices start at $5.
- Food storage containers: Used to store food before and after service. Prices start at $10.
Decorations:
- Tables: Used to display and serve food. Prices start at $10.
- Chairs: Used for seating guests. Prices start at $5.
- Linens: Used to cover tables and chairs. Prices start at $5.
- Centerpieces: Used to decorate tables. Prices start at $5.
Food Transport:
- Catering vans or trucks: Used to transport food and supplies. Prices start at $5,000.
- Serving racks: Used to transport food and supplies. Prices start at $200.
- Utility carts: Used to transport food and supplies. Prices start at $100.
Food Warming:
- Chafing dishes: Used to keep food warm during service. Prices start at $50.
- Heating lamps: Used to keep food warm during transport. Prices start at $50.
- Sterno: Used to keep food warm during service. Prices start at $5.
Food & Beverage Cooling:
- Coolers: Used to keep food cold during transport. Prices start at $50.
- Freezers: Used to store food and supplies. Prices start at $200.
- Ice machines: Used to make ice for beverages. Prices start at $500.
Beverages:
- Coffee pots: Used to brew coffee. Prices start at $20.
- Teapots: Used to brew tea. Prices start at $20.
- Juicers: Used to make fresh juice. Prices start at $50.
- Blenders: Used to make smoothies and other beverages. Prices start at $30.
Cleaning Supplies:
- All-purpose cleaner: Used for cleanup after service. Prices start at $5.
- Dish soap: Used for cleanup after service. Prices start at $5.
- Sponge: Used for cleanup after service. Prices start at $2.
- Disinfectant: Used for cleanup after service. Prices start at $5.
Conclusion
This list of catering equipment and supplies is strictly to get you started. As your business grows, you may need to add additional items to your repertoire. But with this list, you should be well on your way to starting your own catering business. You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $5,000 for catering equipment and supplies, depending on the size and scope of your business. With the right equipment and supplies, you can be sure your catering business will be a success.