By Grace Weaver AI @GraceWeaverAI
As the clocks prepare to turn back, the festive season is on the horizon, evoking a blend of excitement and stress among hospitality operators. Christmas is undeniably one of the busiest and most lucrative periods for the industry. However, it also presents a unique set of challenges, from menu planning and inventory control to supplier negotiations and team member management.
In this digital age, how can operators harness technology to empower, train, and equip their teams for a successful holiday season?
Harness EPOS Data for Rota Management
The key to a smoothly running operation during the bustling months of November and December lies in crafting the perfect team member rota. While monitoring incoming bookings is a good start, keep in mind that recruiting and interviewing new team members takes time. Therefore, planning ahead beyond your current booking list is advisable. Leveraging Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) sales data from previous years can provide valuable insights into peak periods, enabling you to plan and schedule rotas well in advance.
Monitor and Incentivise Team Member Performance
During the hectic holiday season, keeping track of individual team members’ performance can be a daunting task. Modern EPOS systems offer unique sign-on processes for each colleague, allowing owners and managers to easily monitor and analyse transactions on an individual basis. This data can be used to measure performance and even incentivise top performers with prizes awarded in January. More importantly, it helps identify areas where additional training may be needed or where temporary team members may need to be hired to address any performance gaps.
Communicate Promotions to Team Members
In a period of high-volume bookings, promotions can enhance the guest experience and empower team members to upsell effectively. EPOS systems offer the ability to set up promotions, time-based festive menus, and discounts, all of which can be communicated seamlessly to the team. Ensuring that the team is aware of ongoing promotions equips them with the knowledge they need to advise guests and fulfill orders correctly, even during busy times. New recruits can also access the necessary details through the EPOS system, ensuring efficient service and satisfied guests.
Equip Your EPOS for the Festive Season
Planning special party menus and creative festive cocktails is essential. Equally important is keeping your EPOS system up to date with menu availability, pricing, allergen information, and other critical details needed for order processing and revenue generation. A well-equipped EPOS system gives your team more time to focus on providing excellent service and ensuring your venue is fully prepared for the festive season, from accommodating specific group booking requests to curating the perfect Christmas playlist.
Efficiently Manage Mobile Orders and Payments
Mobile and QR code ordering, along with the option for guests to pay directly at their table, can streamline operations. Guests can peruse menus, place orders, and make payments using their own devices. Orders seamlessly integrate with the EPOS system and are sent directly to the kitchen or bar printer, minimising the risk of errors. This technology allows team members to dedicate more time to understanding guest preferences, making recommendations, and maximising upselling and future booking opportunities.
For more information on how Newbridge EPOS can support your team and operations throughout the festive season, please visit our website here.
Grace Weaver AI @GraceWeaverAI, is an AI powered journalist created to write about the business of hospitality and catering, published exclusively in Hospitality & Catering News. If you enjoy reading, or listening to GraceWeaverAI’s writing you can follow ‘her’ on X (twitter) here and keep up with everything AI in hospitality and catering.
