GITNUX REPORT 2024

Global Catering Industry Statistics: Market Valued at $265.9 Billion

Delve into the lucrative world of catering: from billion-dollar markets to pandemic challenges and trends.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

Statistic 1

The global catering industry was valued at $265.9 billion in 2020

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The market size of the catering industry is expected to reach $381.6 billion by 2027

Statistic 3

The global corporate catering market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2021 to 2028

Statistic 4

The global mobile catering market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2021 to 2028

Statistic 5

The consumption of catering services in the United States is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% from 2021 to 2028

Statistic 6

The online catering market is forecasted to grow by $22.27 billion during 2021-2025

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The catering industry is estimated to have served over 400 million people in 2020

Statistic 8

The catering equipment market is expected to reach $40.6 billion by 2027

Statistic 9

The global contract catering market size is anticipated to reach $176.1 billion by 2027

Statistic 10

The global catering services market size is expected to reach $1.1 trillion by 2027

Statistic 11

The average annual growth rate for the catering industry is projected to be 4.2% from 2021 to 2026

Statistic 12

The global contract catering market is estimated to grow by $131.51 billion during 2021-2025

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Hospital catering services market is expected to witness a CAGR of 4.6% from 2021 to 2028

Statistic 14

The catering industry in China is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.7% from 2021 to 2026

Statistic 15

The online catering marketplace segment is expected to grow by $6.52 billion during 2021-2025

Statistic 16

The catering industry contributes to reducing food waste by repurposing around 25% of surplus food from events

Statistic 17

Over 50% of catering businesses have incorporated technology such as online ordering systems and mobile apps

Statistic 18

Catering software adoption has increased by 28% among catering businesses to streamline operations

Statistic 19

The market share of independent catering companies is around 65% compared to chain caterers

Statistic 20

Full-service catering represents approximately 45% of the catering market share in the hospitality industry

Statistic 21

The school catering sector accounts for over 20% of the catering services market in Europe

Statistic 22

In the United States, the catering industry generated a revenue of $12 billion in 2020

Statistic 23

The food service catering industry employs over 500,000 people in the United States

Statistic 24

The catering industry in Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth rate globally

Statistic 25

The catering industry in Europe accounts for over 33% of the total foodservice market

Statistic 26

The catering services market in North America is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2020 to 2027

Statistic 27

The catering industry in Latin America is forecasted to witness significant growth due to increasing demand for catering services at events

Statistic 28

The catering industry in the Middle East and Africa region is projected to witness substantial growth by 2025

Statistic 29

The catering industry in Australia is expected to rebound with a projected growth rate of 3.8% in 2021

Statistic 30

The catering industry in India is projected to reach $33 billion by 2027

Statistic 31

The catering services market in the Asia-Pacific region is estimated to double in value by 2025

Statistic 32

The catering industry in Brazil is forecasted to witness a significant rise in demand for catering services at events

Statistic 33

The catering services market in South Korea is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2021 to 2028

Statistic 34

The catering industry in the UK is projected to recover with a growth rate of 4.1% in 2021

Statistic 35

The catering services market in Russia is anticipated to witness substantial growth by 2025

Statistic 36

The catering industry in Mexico is expected to witness a surge in demand for catering services for social gatherings

Statistic 37

The wedding catering business accounts for approximately 25% of the overall catering market

Statistic 38

Online food ordering and delivery platforms have significantly boosted the catering industry, contributing to a 300% increase in business

Statistic 39

The average cost per guest for catering a wedding in the US is around $70 to $120

Statistic 40

The catering industry experienced a 40% decline in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020

Statistic 41

Buffet-style catering is a popular choice for events, representing about 35% of catering requests

Statistic 42

Over 60% of catering businesses offer vegetarian and vegan menu options to meet customer demand

Statistic 43

The average profit margin for catering companies is around 10% to 12%

Statistic 44

Around 70% of corporate events in the US utilize catering services

Statistic 45

The average customer retention rate for catering businesses is approximately 60%

Statistic 46

The rise of food trucks has brought about a 20% increase in sales for the mobile catering sector

Statistic 47

Business and industry catering segment accounts for over 40% of the overall catering services market

Statistic 48

The cafeteria and buffet catering segment is projected to witness steady growth in the coming years

Statistic 49

The average profit margin for catering at events such as weddings and corporate functions is around 15% to 20%

Statistic 50

The average booking lead time for catering services is between 3 to 6 months for weddings and large events

Statistic 51

Over 80% of catering businesses have reported an increase in demand for eco-friendly and sustainable catering options

Statistic 52

The average cost of catering per person in the United States ranges from $15 to $150, depending on the occasion and menu selection

Statistic 53

Home meal replacement catering sales have increased by 12% in the past year due to changing consumer preferences

Statistic 54

The breakfast catering segment is predicted to experience rapid growth driven by demand from corporate events

Statistic 55

The catering market for small-scale events is anticipated to witness the fastest growth in the next few years

Statistic 56

The catering industry in Germany is expected to see growth in demand for sustainable and organic catering options

Statistic 57

Virtual catering services have seen a 40% increase in bookings due to the shift towards virtual events

Statistic 58

The off-premise catering segment is expected to grow by 5.3% annually from 2021 to 2025

Statistic 59

The demand for high-end catering services at luxury events is projected to increase by 10% in the next year

Statistic 60

The catering market in France is predicted to see a rise in demand for specialized niche catering services

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Summary

  • The global catering industry was valued at $265.9 billion in 2020
  • The market size of the catering industry is expected to reach $381.6 billion by 2027
  • In the United States, the catering industry generated a revenue of $12 billion in 2020
  • The global corporate catering market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2021 to 2028
  • The wedding catering business accounts for approximately 25% of the overall catering market
  • Online food ordering and delivery platforms have significantly boosted the catering industry, contributing to a 300% increase in business
  • The global mobile catering market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2021 to 2028
  • The average cost per guest for catering a wedding in the US is around $70 to $120
  • The food service catering industry employs over 500,000 people in the United States
  • The catering industry experienced a 40% decline in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020
  • Buffet-style catering is a popular choice for events, representing about 35% of catering requests
  • Over 60% of catering businesses offer vegetarian and vegan menu options to meet customer demand
  • The average profit margin for catering companies is around 10% to 12%
  • Around 70% of corporate events in the US utilize catering services
  • The catering industry in Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth rate globally

Step right up, folks, to the tantalizing world of catering where the numbers are as deliciously impressive as the spread itself! With the global catering industry serving up a scrumptious $265.9 billion dish in 2020 and eyeing a sizzling $381.6 billion by 2027, its no wonder everyone wants a seat at the table. From weddings driving a quarter of the market to food trucks dishing out a 20% boost in sales, this industry sure knows how to cater to our cravings! So, grab a plate and lets dig into the juicy stats behind this culinary empire.

Global Catering Industry Market Size Forecasts

  • The global catering industry was valued at $265.9 billion in 2020
  • The market size of the catering industry is expected to reach $381.6 billion by 2027
  • The global corporate catering market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2021 to 2028
  • The global mobile catering market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2021 to 2028
  • The consumption of catering services in the United States is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% from 2021 to 2028
  • The online catering market is forecasted to grow by $22.27 billion during 2021-2025
  • The catering industry is estimated to have served over 400 million people in 2020
  • The catering equipment market is expected to reach $40.6 billion by 2027
  • The global contract catering market size is anticipated to reach $176.1 billion by 2027
  • The global catering services market size is expected to reach $1.1 trillion by 2027
  • The average annual growth rate for the catering industry is projected to be 4.2% from 2021 to 2026
  • The global contract catering market is estimated to grow by $131.51 billion during 2021-2025
  • Hospital catering services market is expected to witness a CAGR of 4.6% from 2021 to 2028
  • The catering industry in China is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.7% from 2021 to 2026
  • The online catering marketplace segment is expected to grow by $6.52 billion during 2021-2025

Interpretation

The statistics paint a savory picture of the catering industry's remarkable growth and evolution, showcasing a buffet of opportunities for players in the market. With projections as enticing as a perfectly plated dish, it's clear that the global appetite for catering services is only getting heartier. From corporate lunches to mobile gourmet delights, the industry is cooking up a storm, serving up innovation alongside delectable menus. As the numbers suggest, the world is hungry for more, ready to devour the flavors of entrepreneurship and culinary excellence that define this dynamic landscape. So, grab your fork and knife, because the future of catering is on the rise, and it's a meal worth savoring.

Innovations and Technological Advancements in Catering Services

  • The catering industry contributes to reducing food waste by repurposing around 25% of surplus food from events
  • Over 50% of catering businesses have incorporated technology such as online ordering systems and mobile apps
  • Catering software adoption has increased by 28% among catering businesses to streamline operations

Interpretation

The catering industry is not just about delicious food and extravagant events—it's also at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. By repurposing 25% of surplus food, caterers are not only satisfying taste buds but also reducing food waste. Embracing technology, with over 50% of catering businesses implementing online ordering systems and mobile apps, is a recipe for success in today's digital age. Furthermore, the 28% increase in catering software adoption showcases the industry's commitment to streamlining operations and delivering top-notch service. Bon appétit to progress and efficiency in catering!

Market Share and Competition Analysis

  • The market share of independent catering companies is around 65% compared to chain caterers
  • Full-service catering represents approximately 45% of the catering market share in the hospitality industry
  • The school catering sector accounts for over 20% of the catering services market in Europe

Interpretation

In the complex culinary landscape of the catering industry, independent caterers have proven that when it comes to flavor and innovation, they rule the roost with a commanding 65% market share, leaving chain caterers scrambling for a seat at the table. Full-service catering, occupying a generous slice of 45%, continues to serve up a feast of elegance and convenience to discerning clients. And let's not underestimate the mighty influence of school catering, claiming a notable 20% stake in the European market, proving that even the young palates are fierce contenders in shaping the future of this savory industry.

Regional Catering Industry Projections

  • In the United States, the catering industry generated a revenue of $12 billion in 2020
  • The food service catering industry employs over 500,000 people in the United States
  • The catering industry in Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth rate globally
  • The catering industry in Europe accounts for over 33% of the total foodservice market
  • The catering services market in North America is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2020 to 2027
  • The catering industry in Latin America is forecasted to witness significant growth due to increasing demand for catering services at events
  • The catering industry in the Middle East and Africa region is projected to witness substantial growth by 2025
  • The catering industry in Australia is expected to rebound with a projected growth rate of 3.8% in 2021
  • The catering industry in India is projected to reach $33 billion by 2027
  • The catering services market in the Asia-Pacific region is estimated to double in value by 2025
  • The catering industry in Brazil is forecasted to witness a significant rise in demand for catering services at events
  • The catering services market in South Korea is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2021 to 2028
  • The catering industry in the UK is projected to recover with a growth rate of 4.1% in 2021
  • The catering services market in Russia is anticipated to witness substantial growth by 2025
  • The catering industry in Mexico is expected to witness a surge in demand for catering services for social gatherings

Interpretation

The catering industry statistics paint a picture of a global feast, with the United States leading the charge in revenue and employment numbers. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific is seen devouring growth at a rapid pace, while Europe secures a hefty slice of the foodservice market. Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa bring their own flavors to the table, with projections of significant expansion. From the rebound in Australia to the soaring projections in India and Asia-Pacific, it seems like the world is hungry for more catering services. As we embark on this culinary journey, the industry is set to serve up a delectable spread of opportunities and challenges for all those involved. Bon appétit!

Specific Catering Segment Trends

  • The wedding catering business accounts for approximately 25% of the overall catering market
  • Online food ordering and delivery platforms have significantly boosted the catering industry, contributing to a 300% increase in business
  • The average cost per guest for catering a wedding in the US is around $70 to $120
  • The catering industry experienced a 40% decline in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020
  • Buffet-style catering is a popular choice for events, representing about 35% of catering requests
  • Over 60% of catering businesses offer vegetarian and vegan menu options to meet customer demand
  • The average profit margin for catering companies is around 10% to 12%
  • Around 70% of corporate events in the US utilize catering services
  • The average customer retention rate for catering businesses is approximately 60%
  • The rise of food trucks has brought about a 20% increase in sales for the mobile catering sector
  • Business and industry catering segment accounts for over 40% of the overall catering services market
  • The cafeteria and buffet catering segment is projected to witness steady growth in the coming years
  • The average profit margin for catering at events such as weddings and corporate functions is around 15% to 20%
  • The average booking lead time for catering services is between 3 to 6 months for weddings and large events
  • Over 80% of catering businesses have reported an increase in demand for eco-friendly and sustainable catering options
  • The average cost of catering per person in the United States ranges from $15 to $150, depending on the occasion and menu selection
  • Home meal replacement catering sales have increased by 12% in the past year due to changing consumer preferences
  • The breakfast catering segment is predicted to experience rapid growth driven by demand from corporate events
  • The catering market for small-scale events is anticipated to witness the fastest growth in the next few years
  • The catering industry in Germany is expected to see growth in demand for sustainable and organic catering options
  • Virtual catering services have seen a 40% increase in bookings due to the shift towards virtual events
  • The off-premise catering segment is expected to grow by 5.3% annually from 2021 to 2025
  • The demand for high-end catering services at luxury events is projected to increase by 10% in the next year
  • The catering market in France is predicted to see a rise in demand for specialized niche catering services

Interpretation

The statistics paint a vivid picture of the ever-evolving landscape of the catering industry, where trends and challenges intermingle. From the resilience shown by catering businesses adapting to the online sphere and catering to eco-conscious consumers, to the hit taken by revenue during the pandemic, the industry's journey is as diverse as its menu offerings. With buffet-style catering dominating events and food trucks spicing up sales, it's clear that innovation is key in staying ahead. As the demand for sustainable and organic options grows, and virtual events reshape the market, one thing remains certain: catering is not just about feeding guests, but creating an experience that leaves a lasting taste in their mouths.

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