Foodservice Cateys 2024: Boutique Caterer of the Year – Fika

Fika impressed the judges with its entrepreneurialism and determination to shape the future of the boutique catering industry.

The business, which launched during the pandemic, had already worked with clients such as Blackstone, Optiver, Just Eat and Zoom, and takes flexibility in its stride, offering a hybrid model of ‘in-office’ specialty coffee bars and restaurants as well as a ‘delivered’ catering option for clients across London.

The group also operates a commercial restaurant near London’s Canary Wharf called Fika Xchange, which caters for both local residents and the 3,000 staff who work in the building. Meanwhile, its not-for-profit Bloom Coffee Academy, which trains homeless and disadvantaged people to become Specialty Coffee Association-qualified baristas, is being implemented across several client sites.

Part of Fika’s early success was due to its commitment to client feedback. The caterer decided to launch two dark kitchens as a result of a growing demand for delivery from many of its partners, who were trying to reduce costs by decreasing their on-site cooking facilities. This led to the team developing a highly popular salad and soup menu that can be delivered in daily. Fika has also embraced the seemingly unlikely opportunities that arise from collaborating with competitors, working with Just Eat for Business (formerly City Pantry) to expand its reach.

In fact, Matt Ephgrave, managing director at Just Eat for Business, wrote a letter in support of Fika’s nomination, which said: “Fika is a true partner to Just Eat for Business as it goes beyond the customer/supplier relationship. It can always be relied upon to come to the table with fresh ideas and its consistent delivery ensures quality for all of our clients.”

As well as taking care of its partners, Fika has consistently shown it looks out for its own team members too, offering incentives such as Vitality Health Insurance, 50% off gym membership, free Apple watches and a huge selection of meaningful discounts.

The Living Wage Employer also came 10th in The Caterer’s Best Places to Work 2024, with 97% of respondents agreeing the company provides a “trustworthy and supportive environment”, while nearly 93% appreciate the benefits available are “clear and attractive”. Moreover, the group offers training schemes for its managers to support their skills in mentorship and self-development.

Judges were impressed with Fika’s dedication to creating a  welcoming, energetic environment where everyone can thrive and are excited about where the team will go next.

What the judges said

“These guys are positively disrupting what can be seen as a traditional business model and it’s clear they are doing it with a ton of heart and purpose, taking big risks and leaving nothing on the table. This is what being a boutique caterer is all about: taking the fight to the big guys! Bravo!”

Natalie Mainwaring

“Really great initiatives and unique portfolio of services which have led to exceptional growth.”

Amanda Ciraulo

“A true boutique caterer bringing excitement to the industry.”

Sarah Prentice

See previous winners of the award here