OWEN BROTHERS CATERING EXCLUSIVE BLOG: CORPORATE CATERING NEEDN’T BE DULL

“Culture eats strategy for breakfast, operational excellence for lunch and everything else for dinner”

It is no secret that we as human beings are creatures of routine. In all shapes and forms, we all follow some sort of routine in life whether that be a strict regime you follow from morning until night or the pattern in which you get ready for bed. This is comforting to us because it gives us structure which helps us organise our thoughts and ultimately deal with any obstacles, stresses at work. Part of our weekly routine is our lunch. Whether you make your own or have a favourite sarnie that you get from Pret. So, what happens when we are heading to a training day, conference or even after work reception to learn or socialise with our colleagues? Our gastronomic patterns will fall off and in these situations it’s so important to make sure that when planning one of these ‘corporate events’ you ensure your catering is stimulating, engaging and certainly does not fall into the unimaginable and mundane ‘routine’ that so many of your delegates will be used to in their day to day lives. Take as an example, what you wish to achieve from your delegates during the seminar you’re hosting. Are you looking to inspire them, teach and motivate them or push them beyond their comfort zones so they leave feeling new, challenged and focused on the tasks ahead? Do you plan on achieving this with a ham sandwich and packet of monster munch? Case and point.

Your menu for your corporate event should be as fashionable and forward thinking as your delegates who are constantly bombarded with new and trendy eateries from across the country. The world of social media has captured their imaginations for astro-doughnuts. Now is the time to keep up with them and stimulate their minds as well as their stomachs!

Here are some classic and modern ideas that you should consider for your next corporate event. Luckily, Owen Brothers have the right experience and knowledge of catering industry; , we are well versed in whipping up a corporate culinary storm!

Afternoon Tea – if you’re going to have sandwiches for lunch, make sure the crusts are removed and they are in the daintiest of fingers filled with decadent ingredients such as smoked salmon and dill mayonnaise, crayfish and lemon aioli, rare roasted beef fillet and goats’ cheese with caramelised onions. Display on beautiful platters or stands, served with cake, scones and fresh fruit skewers to add a spot of colour and a gluten/lactose free alternative for those oh-so-trendy guests in the crowd.

Build Your Own BBQ – Ideal for summer on the BBQ, this interactive and informal method of cooking allows diners to take control of their food and flavours without feeling obligated to pick up the cheese and pickle sandwich that is only slightly more exciting than eating bread straight from the bag. Lay on lavish toppings, international cheeses, pickles and relishes galore and serve up with a side of sweet potato fries.

Canapés & Bowl Food – versatile, interactive and easily themed to fit your brand. Have fresh ceviche served up in china, bowls of noodles circulating on trays, chips topped with caviar offering a quirky play on ‘fish and chips’ and whip round at the end with chocolate and salted caramel tarts for a sweet and decadent finish to a successful lunch service. Food that comes to you – surely nothing greater has ever been invented?