The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word CATERERS
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "They supply food" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case they supply food = caterers.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CATERERS mean?
CATERERS noun- A person employed to obtain and maintain the storage of provisions, especially food.
- A person or company hired to provide and serve food, usually for a large group and at a location separate from where the food is prepared.