One of the restaurant industry’s peak seasons is fast approaching, and it’s time to get prepared. Running a restaurant during the holiday season is like the bustle of Santa’s workshop. Managing inventory, special offerings and staffing all need to be on your list – and checked twice!
Managing Inventory
Accurate forecasting is essential to maintaining optimal inventory levels and avoiding stockouts or overstocking items. While no year is exactly alike, reviewing year-over-year holiday season data will help you better predict your needs.
At Shamrock Foodservice Warehouse we do the same thing! We review what our customers’ seasonal shopping habits are to ensure we’re adequately prepared to serve you. And don’t forget that as a complement to our in-store items, we offer access to thousands more items available for next-day pick-up in most cases.
Special Offerings
Now is also the time to brainstorm seasonal menu items that further entice new and existing customers to make a stop (or two!) at your establishment. What seasonal flavors and ingredients do you need on hand to make those merry mouthwatering drinks and dishes? Shamrock Foodservice Warehouse is here to inspire! Stop in and talk with a store associate to learn about seasonal products and deals that will tantalize your guests’ tastebuds and maximize your budget.
Staff Accordingly
Much like inventory data collection, review last year’s sales and traffic data to forecast staffing needs. Identify which holidays you’ll be open and with what hours and how that differs from prior years. It’s key to communicate this information with staff and confirm availability, time-off requests and if anyone is seeking additional holiday hours. Beyond these basics, consider cross-training employees to handle multiple roles for staffing flexibility – especially in case of last-minute call-outs. If budget allows, consider hiring seasonal staff and offering holiday incentives or morale boosters like free meals or an employee appreciation event.
Whatever your needs this holiday season, consider Shamrock Foodservice Warehouse and our team your holiday helpers. Tap into us for tips and recommendations for being holiday-ready!
