Bloomberg Intelligence estimates that higher workplace traffic could lift organic growth for contract catering companies, such as Philly-based Aramark, by as much as 1% over the next year. Photo from Aramark.

News Release

PHILADELPHIA — Stricter return-to-office mandates and the high cost of dining out are fueling a rebound in corporate cafeterias, boosting growth prospects for major caterers including Aramark, Compass Group and Sodexo.

Estimates are that higher workplace traffic could lift organic growth for contract catering companies by as much as 1% over the next year. Analysts say new contracts and pricing gains may add further momentum as employers seek to entice workers back with upgraded dining options.

In cities such as New York, London and Paris, fewer employees expect to work fully remotely in the next two years, according to Bloomberg Intelligence’s latest real estate survey. Enhanced office perks, such as subsidized meals, networking opportunities and productivity benefits, remain key drivers of attendance.

Philadelphia-based Aramark has already reported seven straight quarters of growth in its business and industry segment, which accounts for about 15% of U.S. revenue. Compass Group said rising food prices and higher payroll taxes in the U.K. are making its corporate offerings more attractive than high-street alternatives. Sodexo, meanwhile, has posted stronger results in North America than in Europe, where hybrid work is more entrenched and labor laws limit full-time office mandates.

Analysts note that the largest caterers hold an advantage in the current cost environment. Their scale allows them to adjust menus quickly to reflect shifting food prices, giving them an edge over smaller competitors.

Despite uneven regional recovery, industry watchers expect momentum to continue, with North America leading the way and Europe catching up more gradually through 2026.