____________________________________________________________________________________ Technology
Integration changes to business rates have caused understandable outcry. Many have opted to reduce staff, cut trading hours and close sites, undermining both profitability and growth plans.
And yet, some chains are bucking the trend. Individual restaurants are thriving. While there is no magic formula for success, hospitality has one simple advantage over other business sectors: the ability to effect immediate change. Restaurants don’ t have to wait weeks or months to see the impact of decisions: profitability can be impacted today. And that is an enormously powerful tool. Sales on a cold day can be boosted by offering a spiced hot apple juice or a warming soup. Savvy inventory buying decisions can be leveraged in a promotional special offer. Effective staff management can minimize costs without affecting the customer experience. The value is both tangible and immediate. This can only be achieved, of course, if the people taking the decisions on the ground, the restaurant GMs, assistant managers, even head chefs, have real-time access to relevant, easily accessible
foodchainmagazine. com 25