The Prep List

Summary In this episode, Shaun discusses the importance of crisis readiness in the hospitality industry. He emphasises that many venues neglect crisis planning until it's too late, leading to chaos during unexpected disruptions. Shaun shares practical tools, such as checklists and templates, to help operators prepare for various crises, from staff shortages to tech failures. He emphasises the impo...

Summary This week, we’re tackling the big kahuna: finding the right people for your team. Spoiler alert: if you don't have the right crew onboard, even the best brand can sink faster than a lead balloon! We’re chatting about how recruitment in hospitality has done a complete 180 in the last couple of years. Forget relying solely on seekers and word-of-mouth; it’s time to cast your net wide and exp...

Summary In this episode of The Prep List, Shaun discusses the importance of location intelligence in the hospitality industry. He emphasises the shift from relying solely on gut feelings to using data-driven decisions for site selection and evaluation. Shaun shares tools and strategies for conducting location audits, highlights real-world examples of operators who have successfully leveraged locat...

Summary In this episode, Shaun discusses the importance of venue design and fit-out, emphasising how strategic decisions can save operators money and enhance customer experience. He highlights the trend of evolving existing spaces without major renovations, the significance of layout optimisation, and the need for continuous improvement in hospitality venues. Shaun provides actionable insights and...

Summary: Join Shaun as he shares insights on the importance of regular supply chain reviews. Discover how staying proactive can save costs and enhance efficiency in your venue. Key Takeaways: Trend to Watch: "Reviewing Before Regret" - Regular supplier reviews every 6-12 months can prevent overpaying and ensure competitive pricing. Tool to Test: "Track It, Don't Wing It" - Utilise tools like Resto...

Summary In this episode of the Prep List, Shaun discusses key trends and tools for the hospitality industry, focusing on rising energy costs, the importance of data management, and long-term planning strategies. The need for operators to clean up their data to make informed decisions, and shared a case study of a supermarket's successful move to a larger facility. The episode concludes with advice...

This podcast episode focuses on the critical evaluation of point of sale (POS) systems within hospitality venues, emphasising the necessity of determining whether these systems are genuinely beneficial or inadvertently detrimental to business operations. I elucidate the evolution of POS systems, which have transformed from mere cash registers into multifaceted integrated platforms encompassing inv...

The principal focus of today's discourse revolves around the paramount significance of establishing brand clarity as a foundational element in the successful operation and expansion of hospitality venues.   Takeaways: Establishing brand clarity serves as the foundational element for sustainable growth in hospitality. In the context of venue expansion, knowing your brand's tone and service sty...

This discussion centres on the burgeoning trend of AI-powered phone answering systems, a technological advancement that is permeating the hospitality industry with remarkable rapidity. Takeaways: The emergence of AI-powered phone answering systems is significantly transforming the hospitality industry. Utilising AI tools allows venues to manage customer inquiries without staff interruption during...

This podcast episode highlights the paramount importance of recruitment within the hospitality sector, emphasising not merely the act of filling vacancies but rather the strategic endeavour to cultivate cohesive teams that contribute to sustained organisational success. Takeaways: The podcast highlights the importance of employer branding in attracting top talent to the hospitality industry. It is...

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the emerging trend in the hospitality industry towards smaller menus that yield greater profit margins. This shift is largely motivated by cost pressures, staffing shortages, and an intensified emphasis on quality. By strategically reducing menu offerings, establishments can enhance operational efficiency, diminish waste, and ensure a more consistent di...

Summary In this episode of the Prep List, Shaun discusses the current trends in the hospitality industry, emphasising the shift towards smaller teams and the importance of simplification. He highlights how technology can enhance efficiency without overwhelming staff, using a case study of a cafe that successfully implemented a new ordering system. Shaun also spotlights To Be Frank Bakery, a client...