The 5 Big Advantages of Digitalization in Contract Catering

In the fast-paced world of contract catering, digitalization is transforming how businesses operate, offering opportunities for growth, operational efficiency, and improved customer experiences. Here are the top five ways digitalization can help contract caterers stay competitive.

1. Own the Digital User Journey to Increase Retention

The user journey encompasses all touchpoints between a customer and a business. For contract caterers, utilizing the frequent interactions with customers can deepen relationships. By combining physical experiences with a digital journey, caterers can expand a simple lunch interaction into a 24-hour engagement, boosting customer loyalty and retention.

Key Statistics

• It costs 5-25 times more to acquire a contract than to retain one.

• 93% of consumers prefer to look at menus online before dining.

2. Adapting to Changing Consumer Needs with Personalization

In today’s digital world, personalization is essential. By catering to individual preferences—whether dietary restrictions or communication channels—businesses can foster loyalty and encourage repeat customers.

Key Points

• Personalization can boost revenue by up to 15%.

• 80% of consumers prefer companies offering tailored experiences.

3. Digitalize Ordering & Payments

Digital solutions such as Scan & Go and mobile ordering streamline the customer experience, reduce wait times, and can increase revenue. In fact, 58% of consumers prefer scan-and-go options over traditional systems, which can lead to shorter queues and happier customers.

Key Benefits

• Reduced staffing costs as labor demands decrease.

• Online orders are, on average, 23% larger than in-person orders.

4. Sustainability Before, During, and After Lunch

Sustainability is increasingly important in catering, especially with food waste being a significant concern. Digital solutions can assist with demand forecasting, inventory management, and real-time customer insights to minimize waste and meet sustainability goals.

Key Insights

• 1/3 of food goes to waste, but up to 75% is avoidable.

• Efficient demand forecasting can reduce food waste by up to 30%.

5. Data in the Contract Catering Industry

Data is the backbone of digitalization. With data analytics, contract caterers can optimize offerings, predict demand, and improve operational efficiency, ultimately leading to increased profit margins and customer satisfaction.

Industry Insights

• Using data analytics has led to a 20% increase in revenue for some caterers.

• Only 12% of catering professionals currently use data analytics, highlighting a significant opportunity.

Conclusion

Embracing digital transformation can be a game-changer for contract caterers, enabling them to stay ahead of trends, meet customer expectations, and operate more sustainably. Start leveraging these opportunities to drive success in your catering business today.