
July 23, 2026
Time is running out to nominate catering industry leaders for the Top 30 Movers & Shakers: Catering, with submissions closing July 28.
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| Several of last year's winners pose on the stage with trophies. Photo: Connect |
The program, presented by MONKEY Catering Platform and FastCasual.com, recognizes innovators, leaders and experts who are reshaping catering in the restaurant industry. Nominees are evaluated against three criteria: innovation in strategy and execution, leadership in setting industry trends, and expertise in helping brands scale operations.
Organizers said first-time nominees will be prioritized, though previous winners who have launched a distinct new initiative in the past 12 months — such as a significant efficiency overhaul, a new proprietary menu line or a new tracking system — may also be considered.
After nominations close, a selection committee will review submissions in early August to determine a shortlist. Those finalists will advance to a public voting round, where they will be encouraged to rally support from their networks and social media followers.
Winners will be privately notified in mid-August, with the full Top 30 list publicly announced in September.
The honorees will be celebrated during the Top 30 Catering Awards Parade at The Restaurant Catering Workshop, Oct. 6-7 in Arlington, Texas.
Nominate yourself or colleagues here.