Eventology: Food and beverage trends in 2025

The event rental, and food and beverage industries are so closely intertwined that when a new trend emerges in one, it directly reflects on the other. 

As the events industry landscape evolves, so too do the trends surrounding catering, dining experiences and the overall atmosphere created by food and drinks at events. Rental companies must stay ahead of the newest trends to be able to offer the most current and innovative selection to their clients. 

1. Custom and one-of-a-kind experiences

In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards a more personalized and immersive event experience, especially when it comes to food and beverages. Guests are moving away from the traditional buffet or plated meals, seeking something that provides a fresh and engaging experience. This trend has sparked a growing demand for customized dining setups and interactive food stations that capture the host’s unique style and preferences. For event rental companies, this means expanding their offerings to include a variety of customizable options. From unique glassware, linen and dinnerware, to innovative serving solutions that accommodate live cooking stations, the need for unique rental choices is greater than ever.

2. Eco-conscious and sustainable solutions

As sustainability becomes an ever-growing concern in the world, this mindset is extending to the food and beverage and event rental industries as well. Eco-conscious hosts and guests are inquiring about environmentally friendly choices, and event rental companies are being asked to accommodate their needs. This includes offering choices made from sustainable materials, providing options for compostable or reusable dinnerware, and minimizing the use of single-use plastics. Behind the scenes, efforts begin in the warehouse with smart packaging, efficient trucking and optimized logistic policies. 

3. Casual dining over formality

In the past, large-scale events often featured formal plated dinners and set seating arrangements. However, the trend toward casual dining at events is on the rise, particularly with millennial and Gen Z consumers who are seeking a more relaxed setting. This shift is reflected in the popularity of food stations and grazing tables where guests can mingle, interact and enjoy a more informal dining experience. Rental companies are responding to this trend by providing furniture and décor that aligns with a more laid-back, comfortable atmosphere. Lounge furniture, casual seating arrangements and modular setups are becoming essential for events that lean toward a more relaxed vibe.

4. Instagrammable food displays

In the age of social media, food presentation is now just as important as the food itself. Guests love to capture “Instagrammable” moments, with intricate plating, vibrant colours, and photogenic displays designed to entice guests to capture and share their meals on social media. This trend has led to an increased demand for aesthetically pleasing rentals that enhance the visual appeal of the food being served. Grazing tables full of beautifully displayed artisanal cheeses, fresh fruits, cured meats, nuts, and sweets will continue to gain popularity. These communal food displays encourage guests to interact and share, creating a sense of community for guests to enjoy.

As we continue in the early months of 2025, we must continue to grow and adapt to ever-evolving food and beverage trends and the impact it has on the event rental industry. Staying on top of these trends will be crucial to delivering memorable and unique experiences that delight attendees and create lasting impressions. Trends are only ideas until they are made into reality, and that’s where the event rental industry gets to shine! 

Does your company have Good News to share? Email Canadian Rental Service at mrebelo@annexbusinessmedia.com.

Michelle Nicol, account manager and festival specialist at Element Event Solutions.

Michelle Nicol, CERP, is an award-winning account executive for Element Event Solutions in Toronto.