Industry buying guides
How to choose a catering supplier for corporate events
Updated
Bottom line
Choose a corporate caterer that holds a valid Certificate of Acceptability for its kitchen, quotes a per-head price including VAT for a confirmed head count, covers your guests' dietary needs, and puts its deposit and cancellation terms in writing.
Check food safety first
Ask for the caterer's Certificate of Acceptability, which food premises in South Africa need under the R638 food hygiene regulations, and decline caterers that cannot provide it.
Get a like-for-like quote
Request a per-head price including VAT for the same head count, menu and service style (buffet, plated or cocktail) from every caterer.
Ask what the price excludes: equipment hire, staff, delivery, set-up and clean-up are common extras.
Plan for dietary requirements
Confirm halaal, kosher, vegetarian, vegan and allergen options in writing before the event.
Agree the logistics
Agree delivery, set-up and clean-up times that fit the venue's access window, and the number of service staff.
Support local and township caterers
Booking a small or township-based caterer can count towards your enterprise and supplier development goals; ask for the B-BBEE affidavit or certificate so it can be reported.
Free templates for this guide
- Event catering supplier checklist (CSV)
10 checks before you book a caterer, from the Certificate of Acceptability to cancellation terms.
- Supplier verification checklist (CSV)
16 checks across CIPC, SARS, B-BBEE, banking, insurance, POPIA and conflicts of interest, with where to confirm each one.
Find suppliers in the directory
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I book a caterer?
As early as your head count allows; ask each caterer for its minimum notice and the date by which numbers must be final.