Going Gourmet for Guests

Although Americans have guests for dinner less frequently than they did two generations ago, according to the NPD Group’s 28th National Eating Trends 2013 Report, home entertaining is a large and lucrative food and beverage opportunity. Increasing demand for more gourmet guest fare, pre-prepared party platters and takeout, take-home buffets, and more culinary-themed home events are moving this high-margin sector center stage.

According to the Specialty Foods Assn.’s 2013 Specialty Foo…