Food Service Contractors
Key Figures
Figures are published for NAICS 72231 directly.
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Official definition
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing food services at institutional, governmental, commercial, or industrial locations of others based on contractual arrangements with these types of organizations for a specified period of time. The establishments of this industry provide food services for the convenience of the contracting organization or the contracting organization's customers. The contractual arrangement of these establishments with contracting organizations may vary by type of facility operated (e.g., cafeteria, restaurant, fast-food eating place), revenue sharing, cost structure, and personnel provided. Management staff is always provided by food service contractors.
Source: US Census Bureau, 2017 NAICS Definitions. Public domain. Census publishes this definition under NAICS 722310, the only detailed industry in this group.
Illustrative examples
- Airline food service contractors
- Food concession contractors (e.g., at sporting, entertainment, convention facilities)
- Cafeteria food service contractors (e.g., at schools, hospitals, government offices)
Which code does this activity belong in?
Food service contractors operate food facilities at client locations under contractual agreements, providing management staff and ongoing meal service for the contracting organization's employees or customers. The distinction from caterers lies in the permanence and location of service; contractors maintain dedicated operations at the client's facility for specified periods, whereas caterers prepare and deliver meals to various locations as needed. Mobile food services, by contrast, operate from vehicles or temporary structures rather than established facilities at client sites.
Written for NAICS 722310, the only detailed industry in this group.