What is a remote camp catering company and what services do they offer? 

Camp catering companies are entities hired by a mining, energy, or construction company operating a project in a remote location. While the name would seem to indicate these companies focus primarily on food services, these entities could perhaps more accurately be described as camp management companies. This is due to the comprehensive nature of their service offering. 

Companies in this category are specialized service providers that typically manage a variety of activities that take place at fly-in fly-out (FIFO) camps, including: front desk operations, meals and dining, housekeeping and maintenance, among myriad other services that differ based on provider. Camp catering companies are designed to operate in remote locations where access to standard food supply and temporary accommodation is limited or otherwise non-existent, due to the fact that no nearby towns or cities exist. The aim of these companies is to provide a seamless, comfortable environment for workers staffed at remote projects during their hours spent off-shift. logistic

Key factors for selecting the best camp catering company for your needs

When it comes to choosing the right camp catering service company, there are certain aspects that you need to consider. Let's have a look at some of these various considerations. 

Experience in Remote Locations

Experience plays a pivotal role when choosing a camp management company. Catering in remote locations is a complex task requiring an in-depth understanding of the unique challenges these far-flung–and sometimes inhospitable–locations present. Operating in such remote environments may necessitate access to a broad network of related service providers. If, for instance, supply chains are disrupted and food is not delivered in a timely manner to a remote camp, it is incumbent upon the camp catering company managing the camp to source alternative food options with little to no time to spare. Therefore, seek out companies with a proven track record in providing remote camp catering services. An experienced company will not only understand the logistical aspects of delivering services to remote areas, but also have strategies in place to handle unexpected situations or emergencies.

Technology-Supported Camp Services

In an era where technology reigns supreme, harnessing its power can help camp catering companies deliver top-notch services. Look for a company that leverages technology to streamline key aspects of camp management, including room reservations and occupancy management, meal tracking and food forecasting, and labor assignments for housekeeping and maintenance staff. Camp management companies that possess a robust technology stack are able to offer their clients maximum efficiency, consistency, and accuracy of data, and can offer a notably more positive camp experience for those housed on-site. As such, when choosing a camp catering service provider, prioritize those that adopt and implement modern technologies in their operations.

Comprehensive Camp Management Services

Lastly and perhaps most importantly, consider if the company's service offering is able to offer your camp staff and camp residents more than just the basics. A company that provides more than just standard camp catering can make all the difference. Value-add services that camp management companies offer may include: worker induction or certification management, provision of guest recreation and/or medical services, or even transportation booking for workers in and out of remote camps. These additional services enable you to shift your focus to core business activities by ensuring you have a one-stop solution for managing worksite accommodations for your workers, contractors, and sub-contractors. 

Need help choosing a company that provides the right camp catering services for your needs?

Camps and Crew, a software provider focused on the management of FIFO camps and travel, can assist you in navigating the complex domain of remote camp management and catering. With experience partnering with various camp catering companies, Camps & Crew can assist you in determining what aspects of camp management are most essential to your remote operations. They can also show you the ways technology can simplify and streamline operations at your remote camp to ensure maximum operational efficiency. 

If you work for a mining or energy company shopping around for a camp catering company, or you're merely looking to streamline operations at your remote camps, take the next step toward unparalleled efficiency by booking a demo here to tap into Camps and Crew's deep expertise in this domain and to see how their technologies streamline FIFO camp and travel management at your remote sites.