_{At ezCater, we’re dedicated to helping restaurants grow a successful catering business. That’s why we’re excited to share this video series featuring insights and lessons from industry experts behind thriving catering programs.}

A booming catering business can completely change your day-to-day restaurant operations. And it can be challenging to stay organized. That’s why it’s important to build a checklist of standard operating procedures (SOPs) to streamline your process. Your checklist should include everything from prep work to delivery. But what’s the best way to build your SOPs to ensure success?

In this video, Eric Wyatt, Chief Operating Officer of Boston Market, shares how to create a checklist of SOPs to support your catering business. He also discusses how to create the best timeline for your checklist, ensure accountability, and generate buy-in with your catering staff.

Video Takeaways:

• Keep your checklist simple and logical. Consider the order of operations for every catering order, including prep, cooking, packaging, and delivery. 
• Keep your team accountable. Each component of the catering checklist needs to be reviewed and checked off. Your back-of-house production team, catering manager, and delivery staff are each accountable for the needs of any given order.
• Include every important step for an order. Your checklist should cover standard order accuracy, as well as cutlery, napkins, and cups. Consider adding items that improve your guest’s experience, too.
• Ask for feedback. Request feedback on your SOPs from your team. Listening to the needs of your staff improves operations and generates buy-in for the success of your catering business.

Eric Wyatt is Chief Operating Officer of Boston Market, where he executes their strategic operations plan. A 20-year veteran of restaurant operations, he is passionate about business strategy and building a strong operations team to keep guests satisfied. Prior to Boston Market, Eric oversaw operations from some of the biggest brands in restaurants and catering, including Panera Bread and Starbucks.