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Cutlery and crockery are staples in homes, restaurants, and cafes. It's hard to select the right set with all the designs, materials, and prices on offer, though.

In this book, we will guide you in making rational, practical choices—whether you are purchasing for a family house or a successful catering business.

Let's get started!

What Is Crockery and Cutlery?

Crockery is the plates, bowls, mugs, and serving dishes you eat from.

Cutlery is what you eat with—knives, forks, and spoons.

They may look basic, but the right set can really make your dining experience.

Think About Purpose First

Before you shop, ask yourself: Who is it for?

• Home use: Focus on comfort and style.

• Cafés & restaurants: Choose heavy-duty, dishwasher-safe items.

• Event catering: Choose sets that are easy to transport and clean.

At HNR Catering Supplies, we help everyone from home cooks to professional caterers find what is suitable for their purposes.

Choosing the Right Materials

Different materials fit different surroundings.

Materials for Crockery:

• Porcelain: Light, elegant, best for special dining.

• Stoneware: Long-lasting, natural, best for everyday use.

• Bone China: Delicate and premium, perfect for upscale meals.

• Melamine: break-resistant and light, ideal for children or garden parties.

Cutlery Materials:

• Stainless Steel: Tough, rust-resistant, simple to clean.

• Silver-plated: Luxurious but needs more work.

• Bamboo or Wood: Eco-friendly, but not ideal for long-term use.

Always check if it's dishwasher safe and chip-resistant, especially for catering companies.

Pick a Style That Suits You

Tableware should suit your personal or brand style.

• Need a homely café ambience? Apply earthy colours and chunky stoneware.

• Having upscale events? Try white porcelain accompanied by shiny silver cutlery.

• Something trendy? Apply matte black or gold-edged pieces.

Mix-and-match plates and cutlery sets are also possible—combinations of different styles are all the rage today and give out a relaxed environment.

How Many Pieces Should You Buy?

Here’s a quick guide:

• Home: 4–6 place settings is enough for most families.
  
  

• Small café: Start with 30–40 place settings.
  
  

• Large restaurant or event hire: 100+ is a good base, depending on seating.
  

Always order a few extras. Plates and forks break or disappear—it's normal!

HNR Catering Supplies offers discounts on bulk orders to help you stay stocked without overspending.

Quality Matters More Than You Think

It’s tempting to go for cheap sets, but poor-quality crockery chips and cheap cutlery bends easily.

Here’s how to check quality:

• Is the cutlery weighty and balanced?
  
  

• Is there a flat, bubble-free coating on the plates?
  
  

• Does the finish look clean and even?
  
  

• Are customers leaving good reviews?
  

High-quality items last longer and make a better impression—especially in customer-facing settings.

Top Trends in the UK (2025)

Here’s what’s popular right now:

✅ Speckled, textured stoneware
✅ Rose gold or matte black cutlery
✅ Environmentally friendly options like bamboo or recycled material
✅ Mismatched but coordinated sets for a fashionable look

Sustainability is big too. WRAP UK reports that over 70% of hospitality businesses are now choosing eco-friendly alternatives when buying crockery and cutlery.

Where to Buy in the UK

You can find tableware at homeware stores or online shops, but if you're buying for a business or need larger quantities, go to a specialist.

At HNR Catering Supplies, we offer:

• Home, restaurant, and event Crockery and cutlery
  
  

• Reliable, food-safe materials
  
  

• Friendly service and expert help
  
  

• Great prices for bulk orders
  

We supply top-quality products across the UK—and we’re here to help you choose what’s right.

Smart Tips Before You Buy

• Hold the cutlery in your hand—is it comfy?
  
  

• Stack the plates—do they fit well in your cupboard or dishwasher?
  
  

• Consider the colours: will they complement your brand or décor?
  

Good tableware isn’t just about how it looks. It's all about appearance and feel on a day-to-day basis.

Final Thoughts

The right crockery and cutlery can lift a meal from basic to brilliant.

Whether you’re serving a family dinner or running a busy restaurant, it’s worth investing in pieces that are stylish, durable, and easy to use.

We at HNR Catering Supplies assist you in striking the ideal harmony between cost, usefulness, and aesthetics.

So go on—set your table with pride.