The upcoming festive period is one of the most profitable times of the year. Yes, there is the added stress of dealing with an influx of customers and seasonal menus but it’s a challenge that we all relish!

And so with the seasonal spirit we’re running down some of the must-have items and decorations that you’ll need over the coming months.

But first, why not give your current equipment and appliances a quick test? As the proverb goes; “a stitch in time saves nine” and determining any issues ahead of time will save you a lot of hassle and frustration further on down the line.

Anyway, sit back, relax and let us take some of the stress out of getting prepared for the Christmas rush.

Here are some of our top tips and must-have items for outdoor caterers.

Great Opportunities

One of the best things about the final months of the year is a number of opportunities that there are for outdoor caterers. In our opinion, there’s nothing better than putting on an extra layer and heading outside for Halloween gatherings, Bonfire Night events and the wonderful Christmas Markets that pop up in our city centres.

It goes without say that is important to plan ahead. It is always worth your while to try and find out who your competition is and work out a plan that will set your menu out from the crowd.

Luckily, there’s a whole range of catering equipment that can be used by mobile caterers.

So if you feel like you need to invest a little and tweak your offerings in order to maximise your returns, then there’s an ample range of appliances to choose from.

Traditional Favourites

At this time of year hearty foods always go down well – especially when the nights draw in and the thermometer drops by a few degrees.

Soup kettles are evergreen items of catering equipment that are wonderfully economical, but this is the time of year to exploit their versatility!

Fill them up with thick, homemade soup if you wish, but these kettles are also perfect for storing and heating chili, curry, stew and mulled wine. And why not partner your soup kettle up with another brilliant and versatile item of equipment the potato oven? With their classic design and amazing functionality, our range of King Edward Potato Ovens go down a treat with a variety of caterers and are perfect for both front and back of house use.

Burgers, hot dogs, steaks, sausages and vegetarian options will always be popular, so take a look at these gas griddle plates and portable barbecues that have been designed with the mobile caterer in mind.

Seasonal Specialities

Whilst the above items would also be great for Christmas Markets, these cheerful continental pop-ups are famed for their delicacies. gas and electric models are available), a pack of accessories and specialist crepe mix. Selling just ten pancakes per day will see you recoup your outlay in a few short weeks.

But if you’re selling more than ten (and we hope you are!) then it could take a few short days!

If it’s waffles you want, then you can’t go wrong with either the Buffalo GF256 or the Roller Grill GES20. The Buffalo model is on the lower end of the price scale, but with it does come with a great two-year warranty and is fitted with cast-iron cooking plates. However, if it is true Belgian style Liege waffles that you want to serve, then you can’t go with the expedient and efficient GES20.

Just one question: Chocolate spread, squash, goats’ cheese and rosemary, blueberries or a sprinkling of cinnamon?

Margin Makers

We also can’t forget the importance of a hot drink in cold climes!

Teas, coffees and other warm beverage are fantastic margin makers so it is important to make sure that you’re capable of meeting demand and with the aid of these gas powered water boilers. Hot drinks are an easy and obtainable add-on for customers who are already buying, so don’t miss out on this brilliant opportunity to boost your profits!

Catering Essentials

Finally, don’t forget about all the accessories, disposable and other essentials that you’ll need.

We have recently launched a brand new line of Everyday Essentials, many of which are ideal for outdoor use. We’ve even placed those items – such as takeaway coffee cups, paper napkins, disposable containers and plastic cutlery – within a standalone category of our Christmas Shop section, which should making browsing and buying even easier.

header: A.Wright (Creative Commons)