Food & beverage
SMALL BUT EXCEPTIONAL Despite COVID restrictions easing, we’re still seeing a trend towards more intimate events, with guest numbers much smaller than those we saw prepandemic. For corporate events, companies are planning more targeted events for divisions and teams, rather than company-wide events. The guest list may be refined but event organisers are still utilising the same budget, resulting in more impressive events, with a higher spend per head on food and beverage, and styling. We’re seeing an increase in event activations to create an experience that is fun, unique and memorable. More than ever, people don’t just want to host an event, they want to wow their guests.
Top five
food and beverage trends for 2022
With more than 40 years in the industry and a portfolio of premium event venues across Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra and Melbourne, The Fresh Collective’s founder and director Peter McCloskey has seen his share of food trends. He shares what’s new and what’s here to stay.
SAFETY FIRST No surprises, there is still a huge focus on hygiene and safety around food service. In a move away from the communal trend that dominated for years prior to COVID, the popularity of grazing tables and buffets are perhaps a thing of the past as we see a shift back to seated and coursed dining. Canapes and individually boxed dishes are a great opportunity to get creative and entice people to post pics of your event on social media. Playing around with colours, presentation and packaging to create a visual show adds to the overall event experience. 28 Spice Winter 2022
