FAQ - CATERING

How many bottle / cans per case of water / soda / juice?

How many cups per gallon of coffee?

Eleven (11) 12-ounce servings

Why do I have to pay service fee?

The service fee is collected to offset the cost of back of the house labor and other personnel used to prepare, deliver and set up your catering services. The service fee is not optional or negotiable.

Can I bring in my own food & beverage?

As the exclusive food & beverage provider at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, ARAMARK SFS holds both the permits & liquor licensing required by local statute. Due to liability concerns, no other food or beverage is allowed in the building. This is to protect the health and welfare of all exhibitors and attendees.

Does ARAMARK SFS provide tables to place the food & beverage on in my booth?

ARAMARK SFS does not provide tables on the show floor. They need to be ordered through the decorator.

Does ARAMARK SFS supply electricity for water coolers, coffee kit, popcorn machine, etc?

ARAMARK SFS does not provide electricity to booths on the show floor. Exhibitors are solely responsible for the set-up of and payment for any electrical services required for contracted rental equipment, including, but not limited to, espresso machines, popcorn machines, cookie ovens, etc. Electrical requirements should be verified with the ARAMARK SFS Sales Manager. Please refer to your Exhibitor Manual for details.

Can I wait until I'm on-site to place my order?

Yes, however, ARAMARK SFS strongly recommends that you make arrangements prior to arriving on site. We will be happy to accommodate your requests, but may not be able to have all services available to order on site. Additionally, there is a 10% Onsite Order Fee added to any order received after the order deadline.

Can I place my order for the first day and re-order on site as needed?

Yes, however, ARAMARK SFS strongly recommends that you make arrangements prior to arriving on site. We will be happy to accommodate requests, but may not be able to have all services available on site. There will also be a 10% Onsite Order Fee added to any on site orders and if the re-order is less than $100.00, a $25 Delivery Fee also applies.

Can we be direct billed for the entire amount?

ARAMARK SFS requires full payment prior to services being rendered. ARAMARK SFS will accept a company check, American Express, Visa or MasterCard for payment of services. Wire transfers will be accepted, HOWEVER, the customer is responsible for all bank fees incurred in this process. Also, for all orders, a credit card MUST be on file to both guarantee payment by check and also to allow you to place additional orders while you are on site.

Do napkins, cups, and ice come with my beverage order?

Yes, ARAMARK SFS will provide all disposable ware and condiments with orders.

Q. Do sugar, Sweet‘n'Low, Equal, stirrers and cream come with coffee service?

Yes, ARAMARK SFS will provide all disposable ware and condiments with orders.

If we run out of food how do we contact you for replenishment?

There are house phones located throughout the convention center from which you can dial the Sales Manager extension directly. This number will be provided to you upon placing your order. ARAMARK SFS personnel are also in radio communication with the building event coordinators, security and show management. If you have an attendant scheduled in your booth, he/she will also be able to replenish your order.

Do you have an attendant that can service our guests?

Yes, please contact your ARAMARK SFS Sales Manager for specific labor information.

Can alcohol be served in the booth?

That is dependent on show management. Please contact your ARAMARK SFS Sales Manager directly for details.

Is there a delivery fee?

Yes, for all orders and re-orders less than $100.00.

Will someone come by the booth to check on us, if so how frequently?

ARAMARK SFS offers a number of alternatives for service. A manager will always be available if needed and attendants are also available. Please contact your ARAMARK SFS Sales Manager directly for details.

Is the service charge taxable?

The service charge is calculated on the food and beverage subtotal only and is not taxed.

Does rental equipment receive a service charge?

Yes, tax and the service fee are applied to rental equipment.

Can I return leftover product for credit at the end of the show?

ARAMARK SFS has a three-business day cancellation policy. Any excess product should be cancelled within the cancellation timeline. No credits will be given at the end of the show. The product is yours to do with as you deem appropriate. You are always welcome to ship leftover non-perishable product back to your office with your booth freight or other materials. With that in mind, please work with your ARAMARK SFS Sales Manager to determine the proper quantities and be careful in your selections. Due to state law, all left over ALCOHOLIC beverages must remain on convention center property.

If I order too much, can I cancel for the next day(s)?

Yes, but only if the time at which you wish to cancel the existing order is outside of the three-business day cancellation policy.

Can I change ingredients on certain menu items?

Yes, ARAMARK/SFS is always happy to assist you in altering published menu items to accommodate specific dietary needs or to produce completely customized menus to suit your special event. Please keep in mind that changes to menu items may result in a change in the item price or labor charge. Please contact your ARAMARK SFS Sales Manager for assistance with your custom menu needs.

How much coffee should I order?

A good starting point would be to estimate 1.5 12 ounce drinks per person. Keep in mind a serving typically yields: One gallon of coffee will yield 11 twelve-ounce servings. Coffee can be ordered in increments of 2.5 gallons (27 cups) MINIMUM, five gallons (55 cups) and ten gallons (110 cups).