Contract caterers’ sales jump 7% in Q3
The figure was slightly behind the rate of 10% in Q2, but sales over the last 12 months have increased 9%
Britain’s contract caterers’ sales grew 7% year-on-year in the third quarter of 2024, the latest Contract Catering Tracker from CGA by NIQ and Bidfood reported.
The figure was slightly behind the rate of 10% in Q2 of this year, but sales over the last 12 months have increased 9%. It means caterers have now increased sales for 14 quarters in a row.
Q3 also brought a small rise in the number of outlets served by contract caterers.
Karl Chessell, director – hospitality operators and food, EMEA at CGA by NIQ, said: “14 consecutive quarters of growth is an outstanding achievement by the contract catering sector. It is particularly impressive in light of the severe inflationary pressures that it has faced in the last few years and demonstrates the strong underlying demand for its services across both the public and private sectors.
“Those cost challenges are unfortunately going to intensify following the Autumn Budget, which risks compromising the major economic contributions of caterers.”
Debra Morrell, business development controller for B&I at Bidfood, added: “Whilst we’re seeing a positive picture of a resilient and agile sector, having clawed its way back after significant challenges faced over the last few years, it’s hard to retain the same positivity about the outlook going forwards following the Autumn Budget.
“The compounded effect of changes in NI, on top of the minimum wage increase and employment rights bill, and the cut in business rates relief will be hard for all businesses to ensure, particularly those in a service sector that is a key employer and will have a devastating effect on many SMEs. We will be adding our voice to that of UKHospitality in raising our concerns with the government.”
