Film Catering vs Craft Services: Key Benefits Explained

Feeding a cast and crew during film or TV production is a big job. People working long hours need good food to stay energized. That is where catering and craft service comes in. Both are essential. But they serve different purposes. The first one provides full meals whereas the craft service focuses on snacks and quick bites.

Understanding the benefits of each can help you choose the right option for your production. For making the right choice you must know how they differ. You need to know their advantages and their drawbacks. This will help you create the best experience for your team.

To know more, read this blog post. So, let’s start the journey!

A Brief: What Is Catering?

Catering service involves providing full meals at set times. The caterer is responsible for preparing breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All these are usually served buffet-style or in individual portions.

Meals are often delivered to the set. Or they may be cooked on-site using mobile kitchens.

Benefits:

• Enjoy Complete Meals: Ensures cast and crew get proper nutrition with balanced meals.
• See variations in meals: Offers different options, including vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly choices.
• Get Scheduled Service: Meals are served at specific times, helping keep the day organized.

What is Craft Services?

The role of the “crafties” or the craft service provider is to provide light refreshments on the film or television production set. This refreshment includes snacks and beverages like:

• chips, nuts, fruits, granola bars,
• tea, coffee, soda, etc.

The purpose of craft service is to energize the cast and crew of a film or TV production throughout the day.

Benefits:

• Convenience: Snacks and drinks are always available on the set. This helps to keep the energy levels up.
• Time-saving: It is set up near the film or TV set so that crew members can grab something quickly without leaving their work area.
• Cost-Effective: They are generally less expensive than full catering.

Food Options for Film Set Catering

You can have full meals to keep the cast and crew energised. Options often include:

• Breakfast: Eggs, sausages, toast, and fruit.
• Lunch/Dinner: Grilled chicken, pasta, rice dishes, salads, and vegetarian options.
• Desserts: Cakes, puddings, or fresh fruit.

Food Options for Craft Services

You can have snacks and quick bites available throughout the day. These include:

• Snacks: Sandwiches, crisps, nuts, and granola bars.
• Drinks: Coffee, tea, water, and soft drinks.
• Treats: Biscuits, chocolates, and pastries.

Both services keep everyone well-fed and happy. These are just common options. You can have your own permutations and combinations based on needs.

When to Choose Catering Services?

Catering is best for productions that require long hours or are located far from restaurants. For example:

• Full-Day Shoots: This service can provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner for a cast and crew working 12-hour shifts.
• Remote Locations: If the set is in a rural area, this service ensures everyone gets fed without leaving the site.
• Large Productions: Big teams with diverse dietary needs benefit from the variety that this service offers.

Investing in the catering service makes sure that everyone gets the nourishment they need to perform their best.

When to Choose Craft Services?

Craft services work well for shorter shoots or when meals are provided separately. Situations where these services are ideal consist of:

• Short Shoots: For productions lasting only a few hours, little refreshments like snacks and drinks may be enough.
• Budget Constraints: Smaller productions can save money by avoiding full catering.
• Supplementary Service: Along with catering, these services keep snacks and drinks available throughout the day.

These services add convenience and flexibility to the set. They are a valuable addition to any production.

Combining Catering and Craft Services

Many productions use both services to meet the needs of their team. For example:

• You can start the day with catering. Serve a full breakfast to give the crew a good start.
• Use craft services during work. Keep snacks and drinks handy for quick energy boosts.
• End the day with catering. You can provide dinner for those working late into the night.

This combination helps to keep everyone nourished and energised. It balances the benefits of both services.

Factors to Consider While Doing Selection

To decide between catering, craft services, or both, consider these factors:

1. Budget

• Catering is more expensive, so it may not fit smaller budgets.
• Craft services are cost-effective but may not meet all nutritional needs.

2. Crew Size

• Larger teams may need both services to accommodate everyone.
• Smaller crews might manage with just one option.

3. Schedule

• Long shoots often require full meals.
• Shorter productions can rely on snacks and drinks.

4. Location

• Remote locations benefit more from catering, as nearby food options may be limited.
• Urban settings may allow for more flexibility with craft services.

Conclusion

Choosing between these two services for your film or TV production depends on your team’s needs, schedule, and budget. The first option provides full meals and is ideal for long shoots or large teams. Craft services, on the other hand, offer convenient snacks and drinks for quick energy boosts. Many productions benefit from using both services to keep their cast and crew happy and productive. By considering your specific requirements you can have a well-fed, satisfied team that performs at its best.

For both options get in touch with Peepal UK. Let us know the details about your crew size and location. We will provide the right meal solutions for your team. Contact us for any related queries.