Restaurants usually see an increase in profits during the holiday season as people celebrate during time off and enjoy the seasonal festivities and food. While the increase in business is definitely a positive, the holidays are also the most hectic time of the year. Seasonal inventory and holiday menu changes can throw off the daily or weekly rhythm your servers and cooks are used to, and the holiday rush can become overwhelming for employees who haven’t experienced it before. We’ve come up with a few tips to help your restaurant operate smoothly and profitably throughout the holiday season.
DECORATIONS
Consider adding some simple, warm, and inviting holiday décor to your restaurant, but don’t overdo it. A beautiful, fragrant wreath here or there accompanied by soft lighting is all it takes to bring in that holiday spirit.
As for holiday music, minimalism is again key to a welcoming atmosphere. Christmas songs are played in nearly every store, restaurant, shopping mall, and elevator your customers enter, so if you decide to play Christmas music keep it subtle and avoid playing songs with lyrics.
MARKETING
If your restaurant keeps an email list, consider sending out a holiday letter thanking your customers for their patronage. At its heart, the holiday season is about appreciation and acknowledgement. You might accompany your thanks with seasonal promotions or a link to view your seasonal menu.
CATERING
If your restaurant does not already cater, you may find seasonal holiday catering to be a lucrative addition to your regular business. Many large corporations and even small businesses are looking for restaurant venues they can book for private holiday parties or catering at the office for their employees throughout the months of November and December. A traditional catering menu and service is a great way to boost profits during the holidays.
SEASONAL MENU DESIGN
Seasonal dishes are one of the best things about the holidays. As you design your menu incorporate well-known traditional items, but play with variations on classic holiday menu ideas. For example, a house-made eggnog is sure to sell, but a house-made eggnog ice cream with German black currant sauce will stand out. At McDonald Wholesale, we are happy to help you craft a seasonal menu that your customers will love.
STAFF
If your restaurant business picks up over the holiday season, be prepared to hire temporary or seasonal labor instead of overworking your current employees. Additional labor may cost more up front, but overall employee satisfaction will increase profits in the long run. That being said, some employees will appreciate extra hours, while others would prefer time off. Good communication with your team will be vital to smooth operation, so make sure you are talking to employees about the hours they want to work and any other frustrations that come up during the holiday rush.
SUPPLY
Whatever seasonal dishes you decide to offer, you’ll need to order those ingredients and seasonal staples, like turkey, pumpkin, and squash from your supplier. Fresh, quality spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom are also essential to achieve those beloved festive flavors. McDonald Wholesale, your dedicated Portland restaurant supply company, has everything you need to make this holiday season your most successful one yet. Contact us today at 877-722-5503 to discuss your upcoming supply needs.