At CaterZen Catering Software , our mission is simple: helping restaurateurs and caterers grow their catering businesses profitably and sustainably. That’s why we launched the Restaurant Catering Smarts podcast—your backstage pass to insights, strategies, and real stories from the industry’s best.
Hosted by me, Michael Attias, founder of CaterZen, every episode is packed with actionable advice designed to help you win more catering clients, streamline operations, and boost profits.
Today, we’re excited to announce Episode 17: Packaging, Process, and Profit—Catering Strategy with Jenn Saunders-Haynes, Owner of Elizabeth Jewel Consulting.
Episode 17: Packaging, Process, and Profit with Jenn Saunders-Haynes
In this episode, I sit down with Jenn Saunders-Haynes, a catering powerhouse who has spent over 20 years shaping catering programs at major brands like Focus Brands (GoTo Foods) and Subway. Now, as the Owner & Chief Catering Strategist of Elizabeth Jewel Consulting, Jenn helps multi-unit restaurants and independent operators alike grow catering with smarter strategies and streamlined systems.
Jenn and I dig into why the three P’s—Packaging, Process, and Profit—are the foundation of catering success. She shares how restaurants can avoid the trap of “random acts of catering” and instead create programs that scale without chaos.
Here’s what you’ll learn in Episode 17:
✅ Packaging before branding: Why functional packaging that protects food quality matters more than logos and colors.
✅ Process creates freedom: How systems for menus, proposals, and deliveries ensure consistency and scalability.
✅ Profit starts with data: Why smart operators make decisions based on numbers, not gut feelings.
✅ Third-party marketplace strategy: How to use platforms like Easy Cater as a marketing tool, not your main revenue driver.
✅ Sales mindset shift: Training your team to think like hunters—building relationships that lead to repeat catering.
✅ Grassroots growth hacks: How to empower in-store “catering ambassadors” to help you generate sales, even without a dedicated sales team.
✅ Team alignment: Why buy-in from the C-suite down to the shift leader is critical for catering growth.
✅ Technology and AI as multipliers: How systems and automation create consistency, without replacing the human touch.
How to Tune In
You can listen to the full episode or watch the video version right here on our Restaurant Catering Smarts podcast page.
Why Restaurant Catering Smarts?
This podcast goes beyond surface-level tips. It’s your behind-the-scenes look at what makes catering businesses thrive. Each episode features industry leaders who share real stories and proven strategies to help you grow catering sales, streamline operations, and create repeat clients.
Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, Restaurant Catering Smarts is here to guide you toward sustainable success.
Let’s Hear From You!
Have a question you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Or maybe there’s a catering challenge you’re facing right now? Shoot us a message—we’d love to hear from you.
Stay Connected with Us on Social Media!
Follow us for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and practical tips for running a profitable catering business:
- LinkedIn: CaterZen LinkedIn
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- Join our private Facebook group: Restaurant Catering Professionals
Let us know how Restaurant Catering Smarts is helping you level up your catering game. We’re all ears (and microphones)!
Ready to Build Catering That Scales with Confidence?
Jenn’s insights prove that catering success isn’t just about great food—it’s about the systems, packaging, and strategies that protect your margins and elevate your customer experience.
Whether you’re rethinking your menu, tightening up your operations, or finding new ways to connect with catering buyers, this episode gives you the tools to move from random acts of catering to a profitable, repeatable program.
Tune in and discover what you can start putting into place today. Because in catering, every process you improve and every detail you refine leads to more profit, more consistency, and more happy clients who come back again and again.
