Question 1

Is it really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cater Source Network is supplier-funded, so the service is free to caterers. No fees, no percentage of savings, no lock-in.

Question 2

Do I have to change suppliers?

Accepted Answer

No. Your incumbents are always invited to bid, and you choose whether to award. If a current supplier comes back with the best price, they keep the business.

Question 3

How long does a review take?

Accepted Answer

From first invoice upload to a signed contract typically takes four to six weeks. We work around your operational rhythm.

Question 4

What data do you need?

Accepted Answer

Two to three months of recent supplier invoices covers most categories. PDF, Excel, CSV or photos — however you keep them.

Question 5

Who owns my purchasing data?

Accepted Answer

You do. Your data is stored securely and only ever used to run your tenders. If you opt in to the benchmark network, your prices are shared anonymously with other operators — you can turn that off at any time, and you can export or delete your data on request.

Question 6

Which suppliers do you work with?

Accepted Answer

A vetted panel that includes UK nationals — Brakes, Bidfood and similar — alongside strong regional wholesalers and category specialists. We always invite your incumbents to bid too.

Question 7

What contract term do I have to sign?

Accepted Answer

Terms are flexible and discussed as part of the process. Most contracts run 1 to 3 years, with 3 years being typical. Longer terms often unlock better pricing, but the final length is always your choice.

Question 8

What if I only have a few suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Fewer suppliers usually means less price tension — often more saving to unlock, not less. We'll still run a competitive tender.

Question 9

Do you support groups and multi-site operators?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The platform is designed for both single sites and multi-site groups, with per-site tracking and consolidated reporting.

Questions we hear most often.