Contract Catering Sales Soar 15% YoY in 2023’s Third Quarter
In the latest rundown from the Contract Catering Tracker, co‑produced by CGA, NIQ and Bidfood, sales are up a tidy 15 % over the same quarter last year. While the sector is still on the rebound from the pandemic slump, it’s clear the growth pace is easing from 30 % in Q1 and 18 % in Q2.
Private‑sector numbers have softened as well, sliding from a robust 20 % rise in Q2 to 13 % in Q3. And the count of venues served has dipped 4 % — a reminder that we’re still a step behind pre‑COVID normal.
What’s Behind the Numbers?
The Contract Catering Tracker pulls together sales data from top operators, delivering monthly reports that give businesses a handy benchmark. Participants in the tracker gain extra analytics in return for their figures — a win‑win for the whole ecosystem.
Industry Voices
Karl Chessell, Director – Hospitality Operators and Food, EMEA at CGA by NIQ
“After lockdown’s chaos and a long road back to the office, caterers are finding their footing in these new post‑COVID rhythms. The slowdown in Q3 and the few missed venues show the market’s shift, but the core demand remains strong. High inflation is keeping the heat on, and we expect those pressures to linger into 2024.”
Debra Morrell, Business Development Controller, B&I at Bidfood
“September gave us a nice lift after a tougher August, bringing the sector closer to pre‑pandemic business as usual. Food services for schools and universities are pulling in the numbers. Even though year‑on‑year growth is decelerating, it’s still on the up‑trend. Consumers are hunting for value, and we’re there delivering it.”
Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive, UKHospitality
“It’s reassuring to see catering sales still climbing. This indicates that demand is bouncing back as the economy settles into fresh work patterns. Yet the growth dip signals tough realities: soaring costs aren’t matched by the price hikes. We’re urging the government to tackle energy‑driven inflation to ease the burden on the sector.”
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