CESA warns of Olympic catering equipment supply issues

"The Olympics has created increased investment in new catering equipment, to meet anticipated demand," says Keith Warren, director of CESA. "As the Games get nearer, the problem will be availability; if caterers wait too long they are likely to find that many popular models are in short supply – not just major equipment like prime cooking, refrigeration and warewashing equipment, but also small items such as tableware and utensils. "Buyers need an Olympic work out – that is, they need to work out what they want in good time. "Although manufacturers are making contingency plans to increase production, several CESA members have said that, if demand continues to rise as they anticipate, they may struggle to supply late orders in time for the Games." He added that the situation may be doubly difficult for caterers located in and around Olympic sites, whose deliveries could be disrupted due to route alterations, security demands and traffic controls. And although rising sales might be good news for equipment suppliers – the prospect of letting down customers was a genuine concern. "Buyers will be used to getting orders delivered within a certain time frame. They're going to need to make allowances for the extra demand, or risk not getting the equipment in time." The Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA) is the voice of the catering equipment industry, representing more than 160 companies which supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment - from utensils to full kitchen schemes. For more information on CESA visit www.cesa.org.uk.