The Swale Business Awards recognise businesses that make a name for themselves in our community, regardless of their size. S and J Catering Services may be small, but owner Julie Badcock’s work ethic, and the support of her family, has helped the catering business to thrive.
Julie discussed her expanding customer base: “Many of my customers are returning customers – it may be the case that I have catered their wedding and then return to cater their first child's christening. Facebook has played a huge role in referrals from customers and I am also growing the number of corporate clients I have, including local NHS services and the Kent Police Authority.”
Another key factor in the business’ success has been Julie’s extremely fair approach to her pricing. She commented: “I do not charge for children under three-years-old and children aged between three and eight are charged at half the adult price. I am delighted to frequently be asked to cater for weddings, which includes food, desserts and more recently BBQs. I don't agree with charging a customer more for the food than they would pay for the wedding itself.”
Julie has also developed her loyal customer base by stepping in and catering events when other caterers have let customers down. She explained: “I never turn a customer away regardless of time constraints. This is where my family dig in and help me out.”
Finally, Julie spoke about why she felt S and J Catering Services deserved to be recognised at the Swale Business Awards: “I started my business in 2012 without the use of a business loan. My first catering job involved supplying over 500 filled baguettes and endless mugs of tea and coffee, and this encouraged me to continue with this business. Over the last 5 years I have met some truly amazing customers and I couldn't have achieved what I have without my family behind me. One particular day I am extremely proud of is catering for Gold Olympic Medalist Lizzy Yarnold’s Wedding Breakfast.“
S And J Catering Services
9 Walsby Drive
Sittingbourne
Kent
ME10 2TT
07841 521 149
www.sandjcateringservices.co.uk