Innovation

In 1997, Joan Rosenthal began her catering company in her mother's basement. Almost 20 years later, Marigold Catering has grown into a well-regarded and recognized brand throughout the city of Cleveland. As the only caterer to be distinguished as a Certified Green Restaurant in the state of Ohio, it is no surprise that Rosenthal, her company and those that work for her, take sustainability practices very seriously. From the compostable cups and plates they use, to the locally sourced meats and produce, "green practices" are integrated into every aspect of their business practices and value chain.

This systemic approach to sustainability culminates into the Marigold Outreach Program, or M.O.P. for short. Through M.O.P., Marigold partners with local non-profit organizations to provide donations of either funds or resources, such as volunteer hours, leftover food, or use of Marigold's venues or trucks. M.O.P allows Marigold to give back to the community and spread their values to a wider audience; it has helped to shape their identity. As part of Marigold’s mission to, "strengthen the well being of the community and the environment," the Marigold Outreach Program and “Green Restaurant” certification allow them to do this at societal, environmental, and operational levels.

Inspiration

Rosenthal holds a lot of pride and passion for her hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. She feels she has a responsibility to not only give back to others in the community, but that it is part of her philosophical belief system to have business strategies and practices in place that protect the environment.

Marigold as a company, and Rosenthal as an individual are concerned with making sure everyone around them are happy, because that is what makes them happy and successful.

Overall impact

A systemic approach to reusing, re-purposing, and recycling is passed down from Rosenthal and the rest of the management team all the way to the rest of the employees. This culture strengthens Marigold’s image as one of the leading green food providers of the Cleveland area and encourages all employees to continue to use these sustainable practices in their own lives outside of work as well. Such a wide spread encouragement of sustainability creates a strong culture not only within the catering company but also in the lives of the employees and the community as a whole.

Business benefit

Marigold partners with smaller organizations for the Marigold Outreach Program since they often are less likely to be flooded by other donations or aid. Since many of Marigold's clients are non-profits, Rosenthal and her team believe this offers the most benefit since they are able to, "extend their support in exchange for their long term business commitment." M.O.P. combined with a systemic, sustainable approach has allowed Marigold to build a strong identity of a compassionate, responsible and caring corporate organization, or as a client put it, a "caterer with a heart."

Social and environmental benefit

With a strong focus on using recyclable and compostable products for their catering company, Marigold is doing its part in reducing the waste that ends up back in our environment or landfills.

Marigold also focuses on reusing or re-purposing materials, such as turning old shipping containers into a beautiful food presentation platform. They have a shop on site that allows them to complete such projects, allowing them to further reduce their environmental impact by cutting down on transportation of goods. This responsible use allows them to do their part in reducing the carbon footprint. Marigold is giving back to the society by focusing on giving back to smaller non-profit organizations through their M.O.P. This gives funds and supplies to those who may not otherwise receive much support, thus strengthening relationships within the community.

Interview

Joan Rosenthal, Founder and President