Event Catering Exposed: The Game-Changing Strategy No One Talks About
In the rapidly evolving world of food service, catering remains a complex and nuanced business that defies one-size-fits-all solutions. Ryan O'Neil, founder of Curate, understands this complexity better than most. What started as a side project born from his own event company has transformed into a sophisticated software platform designed to meet the intricate needs of catering professionals.
The landscape of catering is far from uniform. From corporate drop-offs to elaborate weddings, each event type demands a unique approach. O'Neil's platform recognizes this diversity, offering a flexible "Lego-like" system where businesses can configure their workflows, proposals, and production processes. For multi-unit restaurant operators, this means the potential to explore event catering without completely overhauling existing operations.
Technology, particularly artificial intelligence, is poised to revolutionize the catering industry - not by replacing human interaction, but by enhancing it. Curate's recent AI integration allows businesses to query their own data, generating insights about profitability and future trends. This approach mirrors O'Neil's philosophy that human experiences remain irreplaceable, especially in events where personal connection is paramount.
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For restaurant groups considering an expansion into catering, O'Neil offers pragmatic advice. Start small, leverage existing strengths, and invest in leadership with both restaurant and event experience. Whether it's utilizing a food truck for large events or creating structured packages that align with brand standards, the key is strategic, measured growth.
As the catering landscape becomes increasingly sophisticated, platforms like Curate are bridging critical gaps. By providing tools that can handle everything from complex menu customizations to production tracking and delivery management, such solutions are empowering food service professionals to explore new revenue streams without being overwhelmed by operational complexities.
Looking ahead, Curate's vision is clear: put powerful, flexible tools into the hands of more catering professionals. With a passionate team and a commitment to solving real-world challenges, O'Neil and his team are not just developing software - they're helping reshape how the food service industry thinks about events, one customized solution at a time.
Guest: Ryan O'Neil | CEO at Curate
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