The catering industry remains one of the most competitive and lucrative businesses in the United States today. This billion-dollar industry has grown to become immensely successful as corporations and consumers seek out food service solutions to celebrations, parties, events and gatherings.

Although it can be very fatiguing to own and operate a successful catering business, the opportunities for success are endless - as long as the company employs a number of very simple but important business measures. These strategies include providing superb quality, competitive pricing, innovative menus and sublime customer service. 

With a growing number of entrepreneurs entering the catering market, it's crucial for caterers to set themselves apart to stay ahead of the competition and maintain the steady stream of clients. This can consist of an improved vehicle, enhanced marketing scheme and advanced equipment.

Here are five ways to boost your catering revenues this year.

Vehicle

Has your catering business experienced an uptick in business over the past several months? Businesses are looking to treat their staff members and woo clients through corporate events. If you've been the target of more customers then a new van may be the next big investment your company should make. 

Since you are likely catering high-end affairs and servicing larger events, such as weddings, you will need to look at your current van and seek out a better vehicle that can help you fill customers' orders. This van should be size-appropriate, dependable, and long lasting. Regular maintenance will help ensure your vehicle takes you into the future. You can also consider advertising on the vehicle with decals or a vehicle wrap. 

Equipment

The equipment you have been using for the past decade just won't cut it anymore. It's time to start purchasing new kitchen appliances, cutlery, plates and other catering items that best showcases the food and beverages at the event. It may be costly at first, especially if it's been years since you've first bought this kind of equipment, but new equipment and supplies will pay dividends down the road by setting you apart from the others. 

Staff

Whether you're a new or seasoned catering business, it's imperative to maintain a fantastic support staff that is both experienced and friendly. If you're looking to start the New Year on a fresh note consider customer service training for your team. In the catering business, customer service is just as important as the food served. 

Your staff should be trained in specific specializations, such as serving, planning, and / or cooking. 

Marketing

In the U.S. there are an estimated 12,000 catering businesses. This means that marketing the brand will be a 24/7 job for the proprietor. Instead of depending upon just word of mouth or maintaining a basic website, you should incorporate an array of different online and offline marketing schemes to get your name out there as much as possible. 

Here are a few tips to institute as soon as possible:

• Update your website with a fresh look, corporate details and testimonials.
• Take it step further and develop an SEO strategy to increase website traffic.
• Become active on social media by offering promotions, tips and corporate news.
• Generate some offline promotional strategies, like referrals and print marketing.

Quality & Creativity

Finally, the quality of the food served must be no less than 100 percent. The food should be fresh, presentable and high quality. Before you serve the food, ask yourself: would Gordon Ramsay accept this? 

In addition, your creativity must come into play and become an incredible factor. The colors, the layout, and the ingredients should be unique and enjoyable just to look at. This will help make you stand out from your competitors. 

A catering business should never be complacent and rely on what worked in the past. To be relevant in this crowded market, caterers must stay with the times and perhaps defy the general standards that are currently in place. 

Every owner should understand that expanding a catering enterprise does come with a cost. A merchant cash advance can help in your journey to become the best caterer in the city. Quikstone Capital Solutions has partnered with hundreds of catering businesses throughout the U.S. to help businesses grow. Start growing your business today.

Find out the smartest investment a caterer can make to grow their business and stay competitive with this FREE investment guide.