Written by ilovecateringuk on February 18, 2026. Posted in Blog

A Guide to The Cost of Corporate Catering

How Much Does Corporate Catering Cost in the UK? (2026 Guide)

  Corporate catering has become an essential part of modern workplace life. Whether it’s meetings, training days, corporate events, staff lunches or client presentations, food is expected — and appreciated. But how much should businesses expect to pay? Below is our guide on what you should be paying.  Most caterers work to the same Gross Profit, if they are on the cheaper end of the scale always think about the quality of what they could be offering.  

1. Sandwich & Wrap Platters (£4.50–£8 per person) ex VAT

Affordable, reliable and ideal for most meetings. Premium fillings and higher end bread types costs more but mixed platters are great value.  

2. Finger-Food Platters (£5–£10 per person) ex VAT

Perfect for standing meetings or networking. Includes sausage rolls, veggie bites, samosas, chicken skewers and more.  

3. Cold Buffets (£7–£15 per person) ex VAT

A generous, varied option. Usually includes sandwiches, savory items, salads, pastries, cakes and fruit.  

4. Hot Food Catering (£8–£18 per person) ex VAT

Great for full-day events or colder months. Popular dishes include lasagne, curry, chilli, pasta bakes and jacket potatoes.  

5. Individual Lunch Boxes (£6.50–£12 per person) ex VAT

Convenient, portion-controlled and ideal for dietary needs and training days.  

6. Breakfast Catering (£5–£12 per person) ex VAT

Pastries, fruit pots, yoghurt bowls, continental platters and breakfast baps. One of the most budget-friendly options.  

7. Dessert Platters (£2–£6 per person)

Brownies, flapjacks, cookies, mini cakes and fruit skewers. A great morale booster.  

What Affects the Cost?

• Group size
• Hot vs cold food
• Dietary requirements
• Premium ingredients
• Delivery distance
• Short notice orders

 

How to Save Money

• Work with your caterer, if you have a budget tell them
• Avoid over-ordering. Order for the number of heads you are catering for.
• Pick cold food for short meetings
• Choose breakfast for cheaper catering
• Use individual boxes only when needed

 

Typical Corporate Catering Budget

• Simple platters: £6–£8pp (ex VAT)
• Buffets: £8–£12pp (Ex VAT)
• Hot food: £10–£15pp (Ex VAT)
• Breakfast: £4–£8pp (Ex VAT)
• Individual boxes: £7–£12pp (Ex VAT)

 

Final Thoughts

Catering doesn’t have to be expensive — it just needs to be well-planned. With the right menu, you can feed your team well. without stretching your budget. If you’re in Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford, Kettering, Rushden or Wellingborough, I Love Catering offers fair pricing, fresh food, exceptional delivery and customer service, whilst doing their bit or the environment.

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