The structure of the hospitality and catering industry
The Structure of the Hospitality and Catering Industry
Introduction to the Industry
- Comprises diverse types of businesses including hotels, restaurants, pubs, clubs and bars, contract catering, and hospitality services.
- These businesses may be categorised into the private sector, public sector, and not-for-profit, or voluntary sector.
- Food service management/contract catering caters to other industries such as health, education, sports/stadiums, and workplaces.
Commercial Sector
- Dominated by privately run businesses aiming to make a profit.
- Includes businesses like hotels, restaurants, fast food outlets, pubs, and nightclubs.
- Main aim is to make a profit through provision of food, drink, and sometimes accommodation.
- Food and beverage businesses can be standalone or part of an accommodation provision like a hotel.
Accommodation Sector
- Includes a broad range of types from larger hotels to bed and breakfast establishments.
- Types of accommodation include: hotels, bed & breakfasts, guest houses, holiday rentals, hostels, caravan and camping sites, and serviced apartments.
- Accommodation can be graded by different rating systems, often based on service, facilities, and cleanliness.
Contract Catering Sector
- Also known as food service management.
- Provides services to specific sectors like education, healthcare, and sports facilities.
- Examples include school caterers, hospital catering services, and food providers at sports events.
- Catering is provided as part of a contract, and revenue comes from the contract fee rather than directly from customers.
Public Sector
- Includes hospitality services within institutions like hospitals, schools, and armed forces.
- Often managed by contract caterers.
- Some public sector catering is in-house, particularly in smaller institutions like primary schools.
Non-profit/Voluntary Sector
- Comprises hospitality services in charities, fundraising events, and community initiatives.
- Often staffed by volunteers, though some larger organisations may have paid staff.
- Examples include charity fundraisers, soup kitchens, and local community cafes.