Philippine E-Journals

Challenges and Coping Mechanisms of Wilma Garcia’s Catering Services

Dean Carlo G. Del Rosario | Joice Anne M. Dela Cruz | Rodney Rogie M. Rivera

 

Abstract:

The study investigated the challenges and coping mechanisms of Wilma Garcia’s Catering Services, one of the longest running caterers in San Pablo City. To get baseline information, owner-managers of seven registered catering businesses in the city were also interviewed. Profiles of the businesses were also included with emphasis on the key elements such as history, services offered, types of clients, types of events, scope of service, marketing strategies, etc. The interviews were recorded and transcribed into text. Likewise, the data gathered from key informants were processed using thematic analysis in which themes and codes were generated. The majority of the caterers in San Pablo city took their names as their business names. They provide services to all types of events and clients, who were mostly middle class, but they preferred to cater within San Pablo area. During peak season, they had 4 to 6 events in a month, and they used the social media as their marketing strategy. The key informants mentioned the lack of manpower, lack of materials and equipment, the early or late arrival in the venue as their main problems. Regarding their coping mechanisms, they revealed that family support as well as being prepared, flexible, patient and wise were the best strategies when faced with challenges. Considering government support was recommended to address the problem in the increasing price of raw materials, in business requirements, in the provision of trainings and financial support, and policy interventions. Devising a competitor analysis worksheet for the catering business was also suggested.