United States Catering Market Outlook

According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the United States catering market size reached a value of USD 72.67 billion in 2024. Aided by the rising demand for customized food services and the growing emphasis on convenience and quality, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% between 2025 and 2034 to reach a value of USD 124.36 billion by 2034.

Catering services are an essential part of the food and hospitality industry, providing food preparation, delivery, and presentation for various events, including corporate meetings, weddings, private gatherings, and public events. Catering companies offer diverse menu options, ranging from traditional cuisine to specialized dietary preferences, making them a preferred choice for a wide variety of clientele. The flexibility, convenience, and ability to tailor services to meet specific client needs drive the prominence of the catering industry in the United States.

The increasing preference for outsourced food services is a key driver of the United States catering market growth. With hectic lifestyles and limited time for food preparation, both individuals and businesses are increasingly relying on catering companies to meet their dining needs. Additionally, the rising trend of hosting elaborate events with high-quality dining experiences has further fueled the demand for catering services.

Corporate catering, in particular, has witnessed robust growth, driven by the increasing number of corporate events, training sessions, and office gatherings. The need for professional and seamless food arrangements for these events has led to the expansion of catering services tailored to the corporate sector. Furthermore, the growing trend of remote working and hybrid work environments has introduced innovative catering models, such as boxed meals and individual servings, to cater to the changing demands of corporate clients.

Get a Free Sample Report with Table of Contents – https://www.expertmarketresearch.com/reports/united-states-catering-market/requestsample

Key Market Trends and Drivers

One of the significant trends shaping the United States catering market is the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly practices. With increasing awareness of environmental issues, catering companies are adopting sustainable practices, including the use of biodegradable packaging, locally sourced ingredients, and waste reduction measures. These efforts not only align with consumer preferences but also enhance the reputation of catering businesses in a competitive market.

The rise of healthy eating trends and dietary customization is another notable driver of the catering market. Consumers are increasingly seeking catering services that offer nutritious options, including gluten-free, vegan, and organic meals. Catering companies are responding to this demand by expanding their menu offerings and investing in innovative culinary solutions to accommodate diverse dietary requirements.

The wedding and social event segment remains a significant contributor to the catering market in the United States. With a strong cultural emphasis on celebrations, weddings, and other life events, catering services play a vital role in creating memorable experiences for clients. The trend of destination weddings and themed events has further boosted the demand for specialized catering services, contributing to the overall market expansion.

Technological advancements in the catering industry have also transformed the way services are delivered and managed. Online booking platforms, mobile apps, and digital menu customization tools have streamlined the customer experience, making it easier for clients to access and personalize catering services. Moreover, the integration of data analytics and customer feedback systems has enabled catering companies to refine their offerings and enhance customer satisfaction.

United States Catering Market Segmentation

The market can be divided based on by type, by services, application and region.

Market Breakup by Type

• Contractual
• Non-Contractual

Market Breakup by Services

• Inhouse
• Outsource

Market Breakup by Application

• Corporate Catering
• Social Events
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• New England
• Mideast
• Great Lakes
• Plains
• Southeast
• Southwest
• Rocky Mountain
• Far West

Competitive Landscape

Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:

• Sodexo
• Compass Group
• ISS A/S
• Aramark
• San Francisco Catering Company (Fresh Pulp Holding LLC)
• Tres LA Group
• Thomas’s Catering
• Elaine Bell Catering
• DJ’s California Catering
• Others

Market Challenges

Despite its growth prospects, the United States catering market faces certain challenges. The high cost of raw materials and labor poses a significant challenge for catering businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Fluctuations in food prices, coupled with the need for skilled labor, can impact the profitability of catering companies.

Another challenge is the intense competition within the industry, with numerous players vying for market share. To differentiate themselves, catering companies must consistently innovate and deliver exceptional service quality, which requires substantial investment in staff training, technology, and infrastructure.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the catering industry cannot be overlooked. While the pandemic initially led to a decline in demand for catering services due to restrictions on gatherings, it also accelerated the adoption of innovative catering models, such as contactless delivery and virtual event catering. These changes have reshaped the industry landscape and created new opportunities for growth.

Future Outlook

The United States catering market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, driven by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the increasing emphasis on sustainability. The growing trend of personalized and experiential dining experiences is expected to create new opportunities for catering companies to innovate and expand their offerings.

As the market continues to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, catering businesses are likely to benefit from the resurgence of social gatherings, weddings, and corporate events. Moreover, the adoption of hybrid catering models, which combine traditional catering with virtual and contactless services, is expected to gain traction, catering to the changing needs of clients.