Contract Catering market report published by Apex Insight

May 3, 2012 - PRLog -- Apex Insight has published new research on the UK outsourced contract catering industry which quantifies the market size and historical growth rates, probes key trends behind these figures, explores drivers of profitability and sets out a market forecast supported by relevant evidence.  

The study is based on data from economic and company sources as well as interviews with senior-level contacts in the market.  It incorporates in-depth analysis of relevant industry growth drivers, including numbers of people in employment and in schools and hospitals, which determine the historical and likely future demand for contract catering.  

It is intended for contract catering and facilities management companies themselves as well as investors, banks, analysts, consultants and other parties with interests in the sector.

The study concludes that the industry now has a value of almost £3bn.  There has been significant volume growth from catering having been a leader in the UK’s outsourcing revolution while price increases have been fuelled by rises in global food costs.  

Future market growth is likely given continued outsourcing of catering in segments, such as the public sector, where significant in-house provision remains.  The Olympics, which is expected to require around 14 million meals to be served, should provide a significant windfall gain in 2012.

However, contract catering has been hit by the economic downturn, in particular through falls in employment levels leading to fewer people in the workplace requiring to be fed.  

Furthermore, there is uncertainty in key segments such as healthcare, where it is not yet clear how the residential care needs of an aging population will be paid for, and education, where increases in student numbers may stall given recent changes to university funding

Findings from the study are presented clearly and concisely with extensive use of charts and tables to illuminate points and support conclusions.

For more information please contact Frank Proud on +44 20 7100 7239 or +44 7904 486 525 or email frank.proud@apex-insight.com

About Apex Insight
Apex Insight (http://www.apex-insight.com) is an independent provider of research, analysis and advice covering business-to-business markets in the UK and Europe.  Apex Insight supports managers, investors and advisers in making better business decisions.