Naming your catering business will be one of the first important decisions that you have to make upon deciding to enter the catering industry. Here are five tips to consider when looking for a name for your catering company.
1) Should you include your name, as the owner in your business's name?
Including the owners name can be a good idea, especially if the owner is already well known in the food preparation or service industry. Having the owners name in the title of a business name can make a business seem more approachable, down to earth and is friendly. It also hints at a business that is reliable and offers a personalized service.
2) Should you include the area that your business covers in your business name?
While this can attract potential customers who see their area in the title and immediately relate to your name, it can also limit your business. If you imagine that you will one day expand beyond your town or city it may be best to leave your area out of your businesses name.
3) State clearly what it is that your business does.
It is a good idea to at least include the word 'catering' in your business's name. People can then immediately recognize what business you are in and there is no confusion. Be careful about being too specific though as you may want to change the direction of your business in the future. If you chosen a name that includes the term 'corporate catering' it may no longer seem relevant if you later on expand into wedding catering.
4) Your name should distinguish you from your competitors.
Look at the names that your competitors have chosen and try to choose a name that is different to allow you to stand out in the market. One approach is to go for a name that is memorable either by being funny or catchy. Your name could also let prospective customers know how you are different by mentioning price, level of service or the variety of options that you offer.
5) Don't change your name.
A business name is really something that you should get right the first time. If it becomes necessary to change your name in the future it could be a costly move, requiring expensive changes to your stationary, menus and promotional materials. A name change can also negatively affect the value of your brand and can lead to customer confusion.
When it comes to your catering business's branding and marketing efforts, having a great name is extremely important so it is worth spending some time thinking of one that is appropriate and effective. The naming of a catering business is one of the first important decisions that you will make and should be taken seriously.
