Past Polls

Here are the final results of our past polls. Come back again soon to see the final results of each weekly poll as we move ahead.

What was your favorite part of the 2012 Conference & Tradeshow?
17% Meeting industry professionals from around the world.
75% Learning new trends and strategies from industry experts.
8% Taking home free samples from vendors on the Tradeshow Floor!

What are you looking forward to most at the 2012 Catersource Conference & Tradeshow?
11% Meeting new and old vendors face-to-face.
16% Networking with caterers and event planners from around the world.
74% Everything! The exciting events, lunches, sessions, vendors, etc!

How was 2011 for your company?
74% Great! We catered more events than last year.
19% We catered about the same amount as last year.
6% We were down, but are looking forward to an eventful 2012!

When do you start planning your seasonal menus?
26% Less than 2 months beforehand.
13% 3-6 months in advance.
61% Menus are adjusted per event, not on a seasonal basis.

What one factor most influences your purchases of fresh ingredients?
13% I’m all about price.
50% It has to be readily available.
38% Quality is my priority.

Do you offer a specialty drink at your bars to generate more sales?
45% Yes, we have a fun signature cocktail.
0% Nope, we stick to the classics.
55% Of course we will on request!

What do you do when negative comments are posted on your website/Facebook/blog?
20% Nothing, let it go.
60% Post my own response to the comment.
20% I offer a rewards program for positive feedback!

Do you use catering software to manage your events?
54% Yes, we use a purchased system.
5% Yes, we created our own customized program.
41% No, we don’t currently have one.

How do you feel about Facebook for your business?
28% I love it, it brings business on a regular basis!
60% It’s a lot of work, but I know I need to do it.
12% No interest, who has the time?

Where do you find inspiration?
54% I’m addicted to pop culture – TV, magazines, fashion, music.
15% Global cuisine influence my work.
31% I’m easy, nature inspires me!

Do you include pricing on your website?
13% No, too many variables to consider.
40% Yes, full disclosure!
47% Only on some standard items or packages.

How do you manage your personal time?
11% What personal time?
0%   I carefully plan one vacation every year.
89% I make sure to sneak in some alone time whenever schedules allow.

What is most important in hiring temporary wait staff?
70% Experience level. Of course.
2% The hourly rate.
28% Staff appearance is key.

What's your process for making a major purchase?
50% Get Online or open a magazine and find it fast!
48% I turn to the same reliable vendors again and again.
2% I wait for the annual Tradeshow to meet face to face with vendors.
How often do you use pre-packaged foods?
0% All the time, they are a lifesaver!
39% They add a good convenient mix to my other menu items.
61% Homemade all the way!

What do you see as areas of growth for your business?
50% Corporate business is taking off in my market!
38% Social Catering has big potential.
13% Drop-off/delivery is on my radar.

How do you buy soda?
69% Make a run to the local Big Box store like Costco or Sam's Club.
15% My food distributor brings it in.
15% I use a soft drink distributor.

Do your wedding packages include coffee?
50% Yes, packages are inclusive.
40% No, it's an option.
10% Yes, but we have upgrades available to purchase as well.

Does your company have a loyalty program?
27% Yes, we value our repeat clients!
27% No, we don't see the need for it.
47% I should. How would I do that?

How often do you purchase food from Big Box stores?
39% Weekly, great for emergencies!
48% Couple times per month for special items.
13% My distributor brings in everything for me.