As discussed last week, your timing needs to be spot on. If it is, then let’s dive into the details regarding what you must not forget to bring with you. Last we spoke, we arrived at the destination at 6:00 a.m. What now?
All deliveries must include set-ups with:
Paper goods
Condiments
Serving utensils
Really, really important
Set-ups should be done the day before the delivery. Period. In fact, everything that can be done the day before the order should be—for all orders.
EXAMPLE
Just coffee and tea needs:
Coffee
Hot Water
Hot Cups
Stirrers
Sugar/Sugar Substitute
Milks and creamers
Tea bags
Lemon
Napkins
Drip Plates
What if baked goods are added?
Plates
Napkins
Knives
Spreader
Butter / Jelly
Cream Cheese
Here are some common questions and answers:
QUESTION
What happens if I am setting up breakfast and realize I am missing sugar packets or coffee cups?
ANSWER
All delivery vehicles should have a back-up supply of paper goods, serving utensils, and dry condiments.
QUESTION
What if I am missing milk/cream?
ANSWER
Options include:
(#1) If your vehicle is refrigerated, include it with other back-up supplies.
(#2) Buy what you need from an outside market / convenience store.
(#3) Purchase it from the cafeteria in the building you are delivering to, if there is one.
If you're wearing a shirt that says MISSING MILK & CREAM CATERING, be prepared for dirty looks and/or smirks from the staff wondering why they were not asked to cater the breakfast. And remember, they can always say “no,” so be nice when asking!
Email me and let me know if you have any other questions, I’d be happy to answer.
Michael Rosman is a member of the Catersource consulting team. If you would like information about him coming to your business to address your specific needs, please email Carl Sacks at [email protected]. His book, Lessons Learned From Our Mistakes – and other war stories from the catering battlefield is available through the Catersource store.
You can visit Michael’s website at www.TheCorporateCaterer.com email [email protected].
