How Much Does Corporate Catering Cost in London? (2026 Guide)
How Much Does Corporate Catering Cost in London? (2026 Guide)
If you’re planning a corporate event in London, one of the first questions is usually:
How much does corporate catering cost per person?
In most cases, you can expect to pay:
£20 per person for a sandwich lunch
£30–£40 per person for finger buffet-style catering
£60 per person for a fork buffet
From £85 per person for fine dining
These prices are inclusive of VAT and cover food only. Staffing, equipment hire, and delivery are usually quoted separately depending on your event.
Why Corporate Catering Prices Vary
If you’ve received a few different quotes already, you’ll have noticed that prices can vary quite a bit.
That’s because catering isn’t one-size-fits-all.
1. The Style of Catering
A simple office lunch is very different from a fully staffed evening event.
Drop-off catering keeps things simple and cost-effective
Staffed events offer a more polished, hands-off experience
2. The Menu
The more complex the food, the more preparation and skill is involved.
For example:
Sandwich lunches are efficient and scalable
Fine dining requires chefs, plating, and service
3. Staffing
For larger or more formal events, staffing is usually added separately.
This can include:
Chefs
Front of house staff
Event managers
4. Equipment & Hire
Not all venues are set up for catering.
If crockery, glassware, or kitchen equipment aren’t available, these will need to be hired in.
Typical Corporate Catering Options (With Real Pricing)
To give you a clearer idea of what these costs look like in practice, here are some of the most common options.
Sandwich Lunch Catering
A reliable, well-balanced option for meetings and office lunches.
£20 per person (inclusive of VAT)
Five varieties of sandwiches
Crisps, fresh fruit, and brownies
Eco-friendly platter boxes
Paper plates and napkins included
For a more substantial lunch:
£28 per person (inclusive of VAT)
Includes two additional salads
Finger Buffet Catering
Ideal for informal events where guests can help themselves.
From £38 per person (inclusive of VAT)
A mix of savoury and sweet items
Designed to be generous and easy to serve
Fork Buffet Catering
A more structured buffet, suitable for longer events or when guests expect something more substantial.
From £60 per person (inclusive of VAT)
Main dishes, salads, sides and dessert
Fine Dining Catering
For client-facing events, celebrations, and more formal occasions.
From £85 per person (inclusive of VAT)
A plated, multi-course dining experience
Delivered by chefs and front of house staff
If you’d like a clearer idea of what your event might cost, we’re always happy to put together a tailored quote.
Other Corporate Catering Options
For more informal or design-led events, there are a few additional formats worth considering.
Canapés
Ideal for drinks receptions and networking events.
Typically priced based on quantity (e.g. 3, 6 or 9 per guest)
A flexible option that works well for shorter events
Bowl Food
A more substantial alternative to canapés, designed to be eaten standing.
Typically served as a series of small, composed dishes
Offers a more filling option without the need for seated dining
Grazing Tables & Boards
A visually striking option for relaxed, informal events.
Designed for guests to help themselves
Can work well as a centrepiece or alongside drinks receptions
What’s Not Included in the Price?
Most catering quotes separate food from logistics.
Depending on your event, you may also need:
Staffing (chefs, service staff, event manager)
Equipment hire (crockery, glassware, serving equipment)
Delivery
This approach gives you flexibility and ensures you’re only paying for what you actually need.
How to Keep Catering Costs Under Control
If you’re working to a budget, there are a few simple ways to manage costs without compromising the experience.
Choose Drop-Off Catering Where Possible
For internal meetings, drop-off catering offers excellent value.
Keep the Menu Focused
A shorter, well-executed menu is often more effective than a long one.
Use Your Venue’s Facilities
If your venue already has equipment, you can avoid additional hire costs.
Plan Ahead
Clear guest numbers and timings help avoid last-minute changes.
What You’re Really Paying For
Catering is about more than just food.
You’re also paying for:
Reliability
Professional presentation
Smooth delivery
Proper handling of dietary requirements
For many corporate clients, that peace of mind is just as important as the menu itself.
Final Thoughts
If you’re comparing quotes, it’s always worth asking:
What’s included, and what isn’t?
The lowest price doesn’t always represent the best value, especially when your event reflects your business.
Planning a Corporate Event in London?
If you’d like a tailored quote based on your event, we’re always happy to help.
We’ll guide you through the options and create something that fits your brief, your team, and your timeline.