Post-pandemic surge boosts Black-owned catering company in Dayton

By Zack Frink, Elevate Dayton

Rich Taste Catering, a Black-owned company, is experiencing a growth surge after the pandemic-caused event industry slowdown and is set to relocate to a new downtown building, reports the Dayton Business Journal.

The big picture: Between 2022 and 2023, Rich Taste Catering saw an impressive 327% growth.

• Revenues skyrocketed from $375,000 in 2021 to $1.6 million in 2022.

• For 2023, the company predicts an additional 50% increase, projecting revenues of $2.4 million.

A closer look: Rich Taste Catering has secured 120 weddings and 100 events so far in 2023, while 2024 is already halfway booked.

• The pandemic allowed the company to forge deeper connections with clients, transforming small boxed lunch orders into substantial event catering opportunities.

Looking ahead: Rich Taste Catering will be relocating from the Dayton Women's Club to the Premier Health building situated in downtown Dayton.

• The catering company will revitalize the building's marketplace under the new moniker, RFFG Marketplace, which will feature an array of food stations and a grab-and-go section.

Growing operations: Rich Taste Catering has successfully navigated supply chain obstacles and plans to recruit between 10 and 15 employees in 2023, including an executive chef and a full-time weekday staff to support their expansion.

The bottom line: Rich Taste Catering's remarkable growth in the post-pandemic era illustrates the event industry's resilience and the firm's capacity to adapt and flourish amid challenges.