Prepping your Commercial Kitchen for the Holidays

 

For many industries, the holidays represent the busiest, most profitable time of the year. As you’re most likely aware, restaurants are no exception to this! Q4 can be busy and stressful for you and all your employees, but profits will come to those who are prepared. Here are a few tips on prepping your commercial kitchen for the holidays:

Don’t Hold Back on Marketing

Get with your marketing team to make sure everyone is on the same page regarding gift cards, promos and special offers. Running specials, decorating your dining room or having a themed night will help draw in new business and keep everyone in a festive mood.

Staff Appropriately

It’s essential to make sure you’re well-equipped with staff to handle the holiday rushes. It’s easier to cut labor if needed, than to under-staff and try to find someone last-minute.

Meet with your Staff

Speaking of your employees, now is a great time to ensure their knowledge of your food and drink menu. People are eating and drinking more, so your staff needs to be prepared to up-sell and meet the needs of your customers. You should also let them know to expect large parties and needy, hungry shoppers. Remind them to keep a good attitude.

Take Inventory

You should be doing a thorough inventory of all your equipment, but particularly your small-wares. Glasses, silverware, napkins, trays and linens should be well-stocked for the holidays. Contact CPS immediately to fill any last-minute orders or to place orders for any specialty items you may need.

Deep Clean and Provide Maintenance

Deep cleaning your kitchen and ensuring that everything is properly organized will reduce stress during the busy times and help your staff provide the best product possible for your customers. Check burners, lights and exhaust systems and contact CPS for maintenance and repairs well in advance.

CPS maintenance programs keep you up and running and are perfect for reducing down-time, lowering energy costs, producing better tasting food, ensuring longer-lasting equipment, and providing peace of mind during the busy holiday season.