Food Chain - Issue 197 - December 2023 | Page 100

He also acknowledges the difficulties faced by the industry during the pandemic , including increased costs and supply chain disruptions . However , he believes that these circumstances are slowly driving new innovations . “ The pandemic has compelled the industry to reevaluate its practices , leading to the creation of smaller , more efficient restaurant designs .” This will be an opportunity for positive change , allowing for timely and cost-effective store remodels .
Championing the industry
Bill has always known people need to eat , and for some that means preferably without cooking , and the rise of delivery aggregators during the pandemic highlighted this reality . Bill believes the restaurant industry will continue to thrive , with an increasing focus on off-premise services like drive-thrus and delivery . He envisions a future where the industry gains more recognition for the hard work from its teams , emphasizing that the people in the restaurants ‘ work tirelessly to ensure customers receive safe , fast , and tasty food .’
Bill ’ s dream is for the restaurant industry to garner more respect and recognition . He hopes for a future where working in a restaurant is not just a part-time or entry-level job but a fulfilling and respected career . As
Bill notes that the challenges , such as rising costs and labor shortages , are showing signs of improvement
someone who has dedicated his life to the industry , his vision for PMTD , and the broader restaurant landscape , is not just about growth in numbers but growth in respect for the hardworking individuals who make it all happen . “ I think some people don ’ t yet understand that for whatever reason . But the folks behind the counter are out there doing everything they can to ensure you ’ re getting great service and delicious food . I ’ m hoping that we can rectify this over the next several years to get more recognition for the restaurant industry . I ’ d like us to be able to find ways to improve that and make it better , because I think that ’ s how we ’ ll get folks to stay in the industry longer , and how we ’ ll get young people to make a career out of this , because that ’ s what it has been for me , and I ’ ve loved every second ,” Bill concludes . ■
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