A long time ago, ordering lunch for the office meant choosing between a sandwich platter or a buffet. Now expectations are much higher. Whether it’s for team lunches, training sessions, employee appreciation events, or office celebrations, each occasion is a catering opportunity.

Customers want catering experiences that fit the occasion, whether that's individually packaged meals, interactive build-your-own stations, or shareable assortments designed for grazing. In fact, 48% of customers order from businesses that make it easy to build the right order, highlighting how convenience and customization have become key differentiators (ezCater, 2026)

Operators are responding by expanding the ways they serve groups. Today, 73% of operators offer buffet-style catering while 67% offer boxed meals or individual servings. The data shows that there is no longer a one-size-fits-all approach to workplace catering. (Datassential, 2026)

As workplace catering continues to develop, operators are seeking ways to offer more choice without adding more complexity. 

Individual Meals for Individual Preferences

No two catering orders are the same. The need to accommodate dietary restrictions, food allergies, portion preferences, and grabbing ready-to-eat options has made individually packaged meals an important part of workplace catering programs.

Even though dealing with dozens of individual meals can present logistical difficulties, transportation and setup don’t have to. Using White Lunch Boxes or Kraft Lunch Boxes with the Kraft CaterAll® Box, operators can combine several meals into one carrier, keeping orders organized from preparation through delivery.

Build-Your-Own Stations Offer Personalization 

Interactive catering stations continue to gain popularity because they let employees create meals that fit their tastes. Taco bars, burger bars, grain bowl stations, baked potato bars, and breakfast bars give guests more control over their dining experience and create a more engaging atmosphere.

Behind the scenes, however, these concepts require thoughtful organization. Proteins, toppings, sauces, and sides must stay separated, accessible, easy to replenish, and simple to transport.

The Kraft Pop-Up Catering Tray, paired with Full and Half Inserts, helps create organized serving stations within a cohesive system. Its modular design simplifies setup while creating a clean presentation that's easy for workers to navigate.

Variety Helps Caterers Serve More Occasions 

Sometimes the best way to accommodate different preferences is through assortment and variety.

Sandwiches, wraps, pastries, fruit, desserts, and snack assortments continue to be workplace catering favorites because they offer something for everyone while making group ordering easier.

Customized spreads often require multiple serving formats and sizes for different menu items, guest counts, and dietary needs. Available in multiple sizes, UltraStack® Platters help operators build tailored assortments, while the interlocking design keeps platters secure during transport and delivery.

Flexibility Is the New Expectation

Catering customers are looking for variety. Whether it’s individually packaging lunches, interactive stations, or curated shareable spreads, successful catering programs balance choice, convenience, and execution. Thoughtfully designed packaging supports that goal by helping operators stay organized, simplify transportation, and enhance the overall customer experience.