Snack Prices Guide for Your Next Marquee Event
Planning a party under a marquee? One of the biggest questions is how much you’ll spend on snacks. You want tasty bites that please guests but won’t drain your budget. Below you’ll see the usual costs for popular snacks and some tricks to stretch your money.
Average Snack Prices for Common Choices
Here’s a quick look at what you’ll pay per portion in 2025. Prices are based on UK suppliers and include a small markup for delivery.
Mini Sandwiches: £0.80‑£1.20 each. Six‑piece trays usually run £12‑£18.
Savory Pastries (sausage rolls, cheese twists): £1.00‑£1.50 each. A 20‑piece box costs about £25‑£30.
Finger Chips & Dips: A 1 kg bag of chips is £2.50‑£3.00. Dip tubs (10 oz) sit at £1.20‑£1.80.
Fruit Cups: £1.00‑£1.30 per cup. A tray of 12 costs £13‑£16.
Sweet Treats (cookies, brownies): £0.90‑£1.30 each. A mixed tray (30 pieces) is around £35‑£40.
Remember these are average figures. Bulk orders or local bakeries can shave a few pence off each item. If you’re ordering through a marquee hire company, they may bundle snacks with décor, which can be cheaper overall.
Tips to Save on Snacks for Your Marquee Event
Now that you know the baseline, let’s talk about saving money without compromising flavor.
Buy in Bulk: Large packs of chips, nuts, and dried fruit often have a lower unit cost. Split a 5 kg bag among several snack stations to keep things varied.
DIY Simple Snacks: Assemble your own veggie sticks and hummus. Carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes cut at home cost less than pre‑packaged trays.
Use Seasonal Fruit: Apples and oranges are cheaper in the fall, while berries peak in summer. Pick what’s in season to keep fruit cup prices down.
Negotiate with Suppliers: If you’re ordering more than £200 worth, ask for a discount. Many local caterers will match a competitor’s price.
Combine Snacks with Drinks: Some vendors offer combo deals – a snack pack plus a crate of soft drinks for a flat rate. This can smooth out the per‑item cost.
Finally, track your total snack spend in a simple spreadsheet. List each item, quantity, and price. Seeing the numbers helps you spot where you’re overspending and where you can cut back.
With these price guides and saving tips, you can serve delicious snacks that match the style of your marquee without blowing the budget. Happy planning!
