How to master catering at your pizzeria

Catering is an excellent way for independent pizza shops to boost their revenue and reach a broader customer base. By leveraging the power of great pizza and excellent service, you can turn any event into a memorable experience. Here are some best practices to help your pizzeria excel in the catering business.

1. Streamline your catering menu

When it comes to pizza catering, less is often more. Keep your menu focused on items that travel well and are easy to serve. Pizzas and breadsticks are obvious choices, but consider adding a few crowd-pleasing sides like wings or salads. A simple menu helps maintain quality and makes preparation easier for your staff.

2. Don't forget the essentials

The little things can make a big difference in catering. Include napkins, plates, utensils, and serving tools with your orders. Don't forget the condiments either — pizza catering isn't complete without extra marinara sauce or ranch / blue cheese to go with your wings.

3. Train your staff for specialized service

Catering requires a different skill set than regular restaurant service. Assign and train specific staff members to handle catering orders. These team members should be pros at communicating with clients, noting dietary/allergy restrictions, organizing large orders, and ensuring timely delivery.

4. Offer competitive pricing for large orders

Encourage bigger orders by offering discounts for large groups. This can make your pizza catering services more attractive for events and corporate functions. Just make sure your pricing strategy is still profitable for your business.

5. Be transparent with pricing

Nobody likes surprise fees. Include delivery charges in your catering prices to avoid any last-minute sticker shock. Clear, upfront pricing builds trust with your customers and can lead to repeat business.

6. Embrace online ordering

Make it easy for customers to place catering orders online. Ensure your website prominently features your catering options and that the ordering process is smooth and user-friendly. With more people preferring digital interactions, a solid online presence is crucial for your pizzeria catering success.

7. Adjust your minimum orders and delivery area

Consider lowering your minimum order amount and expanding your delivery area for catering orders. This can help you attract more clients, especially businesses with smaller teams or tighter budgets.

8. Package your food for success

Invest in quality packaging that keeps your pizzas hot and fresh during transport. Insulated bags or boxes can make a world of difference in food quality upon arrival. Remember, presentation matters – branded packaging can also serve as free advertising for your pizzeria.

9. Offer customization options

While a streamlined menu is important, offering some customization can set your pizza catering apart. Allow customers to mix and match toppings or offer gluten-free and vegetarian options to cater to various dietary needs.

10. Provide excellent customer service

Great service can turn a one-time catering client into a loyal customer. Follow up after events to get feedback, address any issues promptly, and show that you value their business. This personal touch can lead to word-of-mouth referrals and repeat orders.

11. Create catering packages

Make ordering easy by offering pre-designed catering packages. For example, you could have a "Office Lunch" package with a mix of pizzas, salads, and drinks, or a "Game Day" package with pizzas, wings, and breadsticks. This simplifies the ordering process for customers and can increase your average order value.

12. Leverage technology

Use a reliable point-of-sale system that can handle complex catering orders. This will help you manage inventory, track customer preferences, and streamline your operations. Some systems even offer features like automated reminders for upcoming catering events.

13. Promote your catering services

Once you've got your pizza catering operation running smoothly, it's time to spread the word. Highlight your catering services on your website, social media platforms, and in-store signage. Consider offering a special discount for first-time catering customers to encourage them to give your service a try.

14. Be prepared for last-minute orders

While advance notice is ideal, be ready to handle last-minute catering requests. Having a system in place to quickly mobilize your team and resources can help you capitalize on these opportunities and impress customers with your flexibility.

Successful catering is about more than just great food – it's about providing a seamless, enjoyable experience from order to delivery. With some planning and attention to detail, you can build a thriving catering business on top of your regular pizzeria operations.