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Time to rethink ‘Contract Catering’ – it’s more than a canteen

When I tell people what I do, they often pause for a moment and say, “Oh, you provide catering for staff canteens, right?” I can’t help but look a bit dismayed, as I explain the incredible range of work spaces where we cater, from some of the world’s biggest and coolest brands to creating bespoke food experiences that elevate the workplace. The word ‘staff canteen’ just doesn’t do justice to what we offer. For me, it conjures up images of menu cycles, predictable options, tabards and functional, yet uninspiring food. But workplace dining has evolved—and so has contract catering. The problem? The name hasn’t kept up.

At BM Caterers, we know that businesses searching for ‘canteen catering,’ ‘office food service,’ ‘office restaurant,’ ‘corporate catering,’ or ‘office coffee’ are seeking far more than basic meal provision. They want high-quality, flexible dining solutions that reflect their company culture, boost employee wellbeing, and make the workplace a true destination for both staff and guests. So why does the industry still cling to a name that doesn’t reflect what we really do?

Beyond the staff canteen: a new era of workplace catering

The term ‘contract’ makes workplace catering sound rigid, transactional, and impersonal—when, in reality, it’s anything but. An events caterer isn’t called a ‘contract events caterer,’ and a wedding caterer doesn’t go by ‘contract wedding caterer.’ Sure, we all draw up contracts, but the label just doesn’t align with the dynamic, creative service we provide. So why does workplace dining still carry this outdated label?

The modern workplace demands more. Employees don’t just want a ‘staff canteen’—they want an experience. They crave delicious, well-sourced food that fits their lifestyle. Whether it’s grab-and-go for busy days, fine dining for client meetings, delicious sustainable coffee, or pop-up street food to add excitement to the week—today’s workplace catering is all about flexibility, quality, and experience, not just a set menu in a fixed space.

Office catering that works for hybrid teams

As businesses adapt to hybrid working, the old canteen name and model no longer fits. Some offices don’t even have permanent kitchens on-site, but that doesn’t mean they can’t offer top-tier food experiences for their employees. From delivered catering to flexible pop-ups and on-demand office food services, workplace catering is more dynamic than ever.

Whether it’s fresh, barista-made coffee all day, a street food-inspired lunch, or Michelin-inspired 5-star dining service to impress clients, the best ‘contract caterers’ (if we must call ourselves that) are offering something far more innovative than just a canteen.

The future of workplace catering

The way we talk about food at work needs to change. Workplace dining should reflect the creativity, quality, and hospitality that companies like BM bring to the table. So while we may still be called a ‘contract caterer,’ we’ll continue to redefine what that means—one great meal at a time!

And most importantly, clients are looking for an experience that adds value to their employees’ day. So, please when you see me—don’t tell me you know what I do and mention the ‘canteen’ word! We’re here to bring creativity, flavour, and excitement to the workplace—no beige trays or menu cycles in sight!

Looking for a workplace catering partner that goes beyond the staff canteen?

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