WOULD YOU CARE FOR SOME FRIES?

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How many times have you been asked by a server to add something to your meal? Well beyond the obvious of increasing the guest cheque total and hopefully the tip, there is potentially a bigger strategy in play.

Most servers are particularly good at taking your order, bringing the meal to the table, and then confirming to ensure everyone is satisfied with the meal and/or drinks. But to have each server suggest any upselling can be a challenge for the owner/operator. Although the upselling was part of the servers training and perhaps a promotional reminder before each shift, the reality is that it can be tasking and simply a crucial missed step in the service.

This is when human nature needs some persuasion, a proverbial carrot, and a “what is in it for me” strategy. Although the idea sounds simple, the execution and implementation of a successful supplier sponsored staff and store incentive program is quite complicated as it is not a one size fits all thinking. In fact, I have witnessed, and been aware of many failed attempts that have died at the back door of the restaurant.

Developing, preparing, and bullet proofing an effective supplier incentive program requires much due diligence – first and foremost is a detailed download with the customer. Understanding all facets of their operations, the menu and timing opportunities, the success, and failures from prior promotions, determining the incentive metrics, and other important details are all required to build a winning strategy.

The solution to selling more fries is all about the customer. Stir’s proven “Customer First” thinking will help increase your sales and loyalty.

And yes, I would like some fries!

To learn and leverage our unique “Customer First” strategy
contact Scott Moore at 905-484-3094 or
scott@stircommunications.ca.
Stir Creative Communications has been helping foodservice
suppliers and operators increase sales for over 30 years.

 

Foodservice is Friendservice.

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I recall to this day the first time I walked into the original Kelsey’s Roadhouse in 1978, Paul Jeffery the founder, shook my hand, welcomed me with a warm smile and poured me a cold beer that he kindly stated was “on the house”.

From that day Paul became an incredibly good friend and I became extremely passionate about the business and grateful the friends that I have made since. In fact, my entire career has been in the foodservice sector.

Foodservice is a people business. It is people preparing and serving with a smile and a sincere thank you. It is a passion and determination like no other. The resolve and the will to never give up is the reason they are still open today and hope to be open tomorrow.

I know this is the reason why I created Stir-to support those who support our friends in foodservice. My motivation is even stronger today as they are in need like never before. If there is anything I can do to help suppliers and operators succeed, please let me know as I am always passionate and enthusiastic to support a friend in foodservice.


Scott Moore, President of Stir Creative Communication Inc., has been helping foodservice and hospitality suppliers and operators increase sales for over 30 years. For innovative and revenue-increasing programs, marketing and promotional campaigns and much more, contact Scott at 905-484-3094, scott@stircommunications.ca, or visit www.stircommunications.ca.

 

A WIN-WIN AND A WIN!

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As I enjoy another forkful of my favourite crispy chicken with a glazed balsamic, it reminds me of a night out sitting at one of my beloved restaurants. Except I am not. I am sitting at home and genuinely concerned that I may never experience the hustle and bustle, the energy, the stories and smiles with the friendly staff and owners.

With so many establishments closing and/or barely keeping their heads above water, the industry is in dire straits. The owners and operators have evaluated all aspects of the business, have pivoted to take out, prepared ready to cook meals and developed a variety of drink kits-anything not to become another victim of the pandemic.

For some the only hope of survival are the suppliers. The tier one companies with the ability and wherewithal to support their customers. Not by giving handouts but developing meal solutions and recipes that demand less labour, leverage similar ingredients and products that carry well. The other is to leverage their marketing and promotional capabilities, their brand bandwidth to develop simple yet effective strategies to increase customer awareness and drive incremental sales.

The result is a win-win, and actually another win for me the customer, as the incredible crispy chicken meal always tastes better surrounded by the friendly sights, smells and sounds.


Scott Moore, President of Stir Creative Communication Inc., has been helping foodservice and hospitality suppliers and operators increase sales for over 30 years. For innovative and revenue-increasing programs, marketing and promotional campaigns and much more, contact Scott at 905-484-3094, scott@stircommunications.ca, or visit www.stircommunications.ca.

 
 

SO CLOSE, YET SO FAR.

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Friday, June 11 is hopefully the beginning of better days ahead for the restaurant industry. With patios opening in Ontario, it certainly is a welcomed sign for all owners and operators that have weathered the past 15 months.

But unfortunately, it is not as simple as putting out some tables, chairs and serving a cold beer-there is so much more to do. Hiring staff will be difficult as many have changed careers and the instant demand will make it difficult to fulfill all requirements for both the front and back of the house.

Menus, recipes, and steps of service have changed to some degree to compensate for lost income, food costs and the expense incurred for PPE and other virus prevention protocols. And what menu items sold well for take out may not be as in demand, as dine in will encourage sales of traditional items that do not travel well.

For many operators, their to do list is long and the new norm list will be longer. How has Covid influenced guest demand? How comfortable will guests be sitting near others, and soon to be, inside? There is so much unknown, so much to learn what the new norm is and will be.

As a loyal patron of many establishments and as someone who has made a living in the foodservice industry for the past 30 years, we should all be patient, understanding and empathetic for the operator. Thankful as they have suffered greatly, they have managed to stay open and now they will smile and greet us knowing that they are close and have come so far.

Bon appétit and cheers to all!


Scott Moore, President of Stir Creative Communication Inc., has been helping foodservice and hospitality suppliers and operators increase sales for over 30 years. For innovative and revenue-increasing programs, marketing and promotional campaigns and much more, contact Scott at 905-484-3094, scott@stircommunications.ca, or visit www.stircommunications.ca.