Can you recommend compostable tableware vendors for an outdoor corporate event?

Yes — here are some good compostable tableware vendor options for an outdoor corporate event, plus what to look for so you get the right products for your setup.

Good vendor categories to consider

1) Broad-service eco packaging suppliers

These are often best if you need a mix of plates, cups, cutlery, napkins, trays, and serving items in one order.

• Eco-Products

  • Well-known compostable foodservice brand
  • Strong range of plates, bowls, cups, lids, and cutlery
  • Good for events with hot/cold food service

• World Centric

  • Large catalog of compostable tableware and service ware
  • Often favored for foodservice sustainability programs
  • Good if you want fiber-based and PLA-based options

• BioPak

  • Popular compostable packaging vendor with a strong event/catering lineup
  • Good for premium presentation and food-service consistency

• Vegware

  • Strong compostable packaging brand, especially for cups and catering items
  • Good if your event includes coffee/tea stations and beverage service

2) Wholesale distributors that carry compostable lines

Useful if you want bulk purchasing, faster logistics, or to bundle with other event supplies.

• WebstaurantStore

  • Large selection of compostable/disposable tableware
  • Good for comparing prices quickly
  • Useful for bulk corporate events

• Uline

  • Carries some eco-friendly disposable options, though selection may be more limited
  • Worth checking for backup sourcing or add-on items

• Restaurant Depot / local foodservice distributors

  • Can be efficient for local pickup and short timelines
  • Good for last-minute event needs

3) Print/custom event suppliers

If branding matters, these vendors can sometimes do custom cups, napkins, or packaging.

• PacknWood

  • Offers compostable and natural-look tableware
  • Good for upscale outdoor corporate events

• EarthHero for Business or similar eco procurement platforms

  • Helpful for curated sustainable products
  • Better when you want vetted eco products rather than searching item-by-item

What to ask before ordering

For an outdoor corporate event, I’d recommend confirming:

• Certified compostability
  • Look for BPI, TÜV OK compost, or ASTM D6400/D6868 compliance
• Commercial composting availability
  • Compostable doesn’t help much if your venue/city can’t actually compost it
• Heat tolerance
  • PLA cups/lids may not handle very hot liquids well
  • Fiber or bagasse plates are often better for hot food
• Wind and sturdiness
  • For outdoors, choose sturdier plates/bowls and heavier cutlery
• Moisture/oil resistance
  • Especially important for catered meals, sauces, and buffet service
• Branding and presentation
  • Natural fiberware often looks more upscale than standard white disposables

Best product types for outdoor events

A practical combo is:

• Bagasse (sugarcane fiber) plates and bowls for entrées and sides
• PLA or compostable cold cups for drinks
• Wood or CPLA cutlery for sturdiness
• Compostable napkins and paper service items
• Lids and cups matched to beverage temperature

My quick recommendation

If you want a safe shortlist, start with:

1. Eco-Products
2. World Centric
3. BioPak
4. Vegware
5. WebstaurantStore for bulk comparison/purchasing

If you want, I can also help you by:

• narrowing this to budget / premium / local vendors
• building a shopping list by headcount
• or recommending vendors based on your city/country and whether the event will have commercial compost pickup.