Innovation in the Restaurant & Bar Sectors...

Over the last couple of days I have been reviewing the latest technology and innovation in these sectors at the Restaurant & Bar Design Show.

It also combined exhibitions on the takeaway, hotel, spa and cafe sectors. With the various independent and mainly family run restaurants and cafes I have contact with, there is often a minimal use of technology. Few collect data on their customers through free WiFi, through their order systems or through customer feedback surveys. Similarly, while many restaurants and cafes use epos systems (electronic point of sales systems), little is done with the rich data stored in the system.

For example, weekly data on sales of food and drink by staff members; average spend per cover; how many repeat bookings compared to new bookings; what the most popular or profitable food and drink combinations are; or which staff are up-selling is not routinely reviewed and analysed. This is a missed opportunity and the lack of information will be eating into your profits.

This rich data should help owners and managers to make more informed decisions about the way you run your sites. Over the next few days, I will be sharing examples of great innovations and how they have hugely increase your profitability. Some of the areas I will cover are:

• the use of free mobile charging points;
• free WiFi - integrated with your marketing;
• epos systems that are 'truly' integrated with stock ordering, bookings, staff management etc;
• eco-friendly food packaging and how it can be used to attract the conscientious customers;
• electronic menu boards; and customer touchscreen ordering at their tables; etc...

Please look out for these posts and please give me some feedback about how useful you find these articles. You may also wish to check out my Sales MasterClass - next Tuesday 2nd October - https://dynamykevents.lpages.co/profitclub/