Over the past year, many businesses have adapted to new protocols for social distancing and modernized workflow. Within the restaurant industry, however, new technologies and methods for meeting customer demand have allowed small business owners and restauranteurs to thrive. In fact, many new restaurants are opening all over the country, giving owners the opportunity to incorporate modern methods into their business structure.
With so many changes to the normal workflow of the restaurant industry, owners and employees alike are in a unique position to remain safe and comfortable in their place of business. From modern equipment options to comfortable apparel for long shifts, now is a great time to be back in the restaurant business at full force. Here, we will look at just four great ways for improving comfort and convenience at your restaurant job.
1. Restaurant Equipment and Convenience
Being a restaurant owner or a team member in charge of asset acquisition is an important role. Whether your eatery is a new restaurant or an established place of business, having state-of-the-art new equipment can truly offer a competitive edge. It can also guarantee that your customers receive the smoothest and most convenient experience. Luckily, that convenience works both ways. For true peace of mind, you may want to consider a restaurant equipment finance agreement, which can take the burden of expensive purchases off your shoulders.
For example, new restaurant equipment and kitchen equipment can be among the most expensive elements of your location. This could include the ovens, walk-in refrigerator, and the many accessories needed for both the front and back of the house. The financing options available through a good restaurant equipment lease can provide those crucial items to you for a reasonable monthly payment. This can free up your budget for promotion and other expenditures. Busy owners with good credit make ideal borrowers for restaurant equipment financing, providing more time and energy to upward cash flow.
2. Comfortable Staff Apparel
For restaurant staff, long shift hours can take a physical toll. For this reason, comfortable clothing is a true necessity. If you decide on integrating a uniform into your team’s routine, providing employees with loose and breathable apparel is a great option. Most importantly, proper footwear should always be recommended. As an example, the right insoles for shoes can help with your team’s muscle aches, posture, and overall well-being. If you and your team often pull long hours, consider a discount for their work clothes and shoes, specifically the best insoles for those long hours on their feet.
3. Online Ordering and Customer Service
One of the most helpful new technologies to be introduced prior to the pandemic was online ordering. Although these platforms had been around for a few years, new vendors offering mobile app-based platforms for online food ordering have truly benefitted the restaurant business in the era of social distancing. With that in mind, your staff’s health and morale can get a needed boost by licensing a point of sale (POS) system, as well as offering your eatery’s menu on various online apps. For your font-of-house team, the stress of booking reservations can be quickly lifted. In addition, your customers can earn coupons and discounts through online loyalty programs.
4. In-House Wellness Programs
A relatively recent trend within the restaurant business is offering employee health and wellness programs. For example, scheduled in-house visits from yoga instructors, meditation teachers, or gym discounts can go a long way in boosting comfort and long-term team loyalty. If you’re concerned about your team members’ physical health due to long hours on their feet, there is even the fun option of booking a professional massage firm. Although your overall budget may dictate the availability of such offerings, your restaurant employees’ health and comfort should always remain an important focus and is worth the investment!