Professional caterers often use industrial catering equipment and food processors and buy in bulk in order to remain competitive. They may source fine wines to complement the cuisine they offer and, as well as food, they may supply chairs, tables, utensils and décor.
For these and other reasons, professional caterers may benefit from using a self-storage facility.
Home operation demands self-storage
When you consider that many of South Africa’s caterers operate from home, self-storage becomes a logical part of the business plan.
Hiring equipment isn’t usually a feasible long-term solution. However, purchased chip fryers, bain-maries, gas ovens and rotisseries can take up a lot of space.
Non-perishable food products and boxes of wine are also bulky items, and tables, chairs, napkins and tablecloths can easily fill up a whole garage or home. So where do you store them during the inevitable hiatus between jobs?
Self-storage facilities are increasingly popular with professionals, from fashion designers and bookstore owners to e-commerce business owners, who distribute their goods directly from affordable storage units to their customers.
Lockable, climate-controlled storage units are especially sought after by wine connoisseurs and restaurant owners, who may opt to store their entire wine, whiskey or beer supplies off-site.
Advantages include better stock control, space for large-quantity purchases and optimal conditions for storing products like fine wines.
What your self-storage facility should provide
It’s important to know what to look for when choosing a self-storage facility. The facility should have drive-in access and units must be easily accessible, dry, pest-free and cool. You should be able to lock and unlock your storage unit yourself, and the facility should be strategically located so that you can get whatever you need quickly and efficiently.
Security has to be top notch in order to protect your business assets, and rates must be competitive or they’ll affect your bottom line.
Why choose XtraSpace?
XtraSpace operates multiple self-storage facilities in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. All its facilities are strategically located for easy access and rates are highly competitive. Storage units, which are available in a range of sizes, are self-lockable, neat, clean and dry, and are protected by advanced security measures. In addition, XtraSpace offers clients onsite packaging materials and free use of its business centres.
Contact us to discuss your self-storage requirements and find out how we can help your catering business thrive. Visit our website to find your closest branch or to get a self-storage quote online.