Huge increase in the supply of catering at festivals

The number of catering companies at festivals and similar events has increased significantly since 2011. The Netherlands now has approximately 8,000 of these caterers, according to data from the Chamber of Commerce (KvK).

RTLZ investigated the Chamber of Commerce and found an increase of 3,000 new caterers over the past five years. Events are becoming increasingly popular, and entrepreneurs are responding to this. In addition to businesses focusing on food and drinks during events, the number of related companies in areas such as festival organization and set construction has also risen: from 10,000 to 13,000 registrations with the Chamber of Commerce.

Existing hospitality industry
Royal Horeca Netherlands is not surprised by the increased number of catering companies and claims that more and more existing hospitality businesses are also coming up with initiatives such as food trucks. After all, the number of culinary food festivals is rising, and it is a good marketing tool to put existing restaurants on the map, explains Joris Prinssen, spokesperson for KHN.

Food truck
In conversation with RTLZ Sausage roll baker Houben tells his side of the story as a food truck owner. Furthermore, being present at these festivals does not necessarily generate a lot of money; the festival audience is heavily dependent on the weather and there is a great deal of competition in this market. However, that does encourage the use and creation of unique, handmade products, ensuring that the range within the industry remains very diverse and visitors have plenty of choice.

Nevertheless, the work does take up a lot of the entrepreneur's time: “You lose a whole day to setting up, and you always have to go to a festival in pairs because you have to drive back as well. A festival often lasts from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, so that is a long day. You also have to be there earlier to prepare everything. And afterwards, you’re not done, because then you still have to clean up and pick up the truck.”

Via RTLZ
Photo: MultiCulinary Festival