By CAMBRO MANUFACTURING
The restaurant industry is constantly evolving, and 2023 brings forth its own set of challenges for chefs and foodservice professionals. Staying ahead of the game requires a keen understanding of the problems that lie ahead. In this blog, we will identify the three biggest challenges facing the restaurant industry this year and provide realistic strategies to overcome them..
Labor Shortages
One of the most pressing concerns in the restaurant industry is the persistent labor shortage. 62% of restaurants reported being understaffed in 2022, according to a study by the National Restaurant Association. With the aftermath of the global pandemic, attracting and retaining skilled staff has become increasingly difficult. Several factors contribute to this challenge, including the burnout experienced by many professionals, changes in work preferences and the shortage of skilled workers.
There are a few ways restaurant owners and chefs can address this issue:
Emphasis Growth and Encourage Engagement: To help attract and retain top talent, focus on creating a positive work environment by offering competitive wages, benefits and flexible work schedules.
Invest in Training and Development Programs: Educating existing staff members can not only enhance their job satisfaction but also contribute to the overall success of your business.
Increase Efficiency: How do you do more with less? Many Cambro products are created specifically with efficiency in mind.
CamBar®: Rather than have servers floating amongst the crowd, position a CamBar in a convenient spot and have guests order and pick up their cocktails from one or two bartenders. The mobility of the CamBar allows you to reach guests much faster and easier.
Camwear® Pan and Seal Cover: We conducted a case study with a restaurant that was preparing their guacamole in small batches throughout the day before storing the mixture in metal pans with plastic wrap. Employees had to scrape a brown layer off the top to get to the more appetizing, green guacamole underneath. By using Camwear Food Pans and Seal Covers, they prevented the guacamole from browning altogether and employees were able to prepare large batches of guacamole in the morning that would last all day.
High Heat H-Pan™: The more dishes you use, the more dishes you need to clean. The High Heat H-Pan outperforms other pans because it goes from prep, to cooler, to oven (up to 375°F/190°C), to serving—all in the same pan! Plus, when you select H-Pans in translucent amber color, the chances of cross contamination and the need for additional handling are decreased because you can easily see what is inside.
Cambro's Camwear® Pan and Seal Cover.
Embracing Technology
As technology continues to reshape various industries, the restaurant sector must adapt to stay relevant. In 2023, the integration of technology in all aspects of the dining experience is crucial. From online ordering and delivery platforms to reservation management systems and contactless payment options, restaurants need to leverage technology to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences.
Adopting a robust restaurant management system that integrates various functions like order management, inventory control, and customer relationship management is essential. Moreover, investing in online marketing strategies, including social media and personalized email campaigns, can help reach a broader customer base. Embracing automation in kitchen processes and exploring innovative technologies like artificial intelligence can further optimize efficiency and productivity.
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
In recent years, sustainability has emerged as a key concern for consumers. As awareness of environmental issues grows, customers increasingly seek out eco-friendly and socially responsible establishments. In 2023, restaurants face the challenge of meeting these expectations while maintaining profitability.
To address this challenge, chefs and foodservice professionals should focus on sustainable practices throughout their operations. This includes sourcing local and seasonal ingredients, reducing food waste through portion control and creative utilization of leftovers and implementing energy-saving measures. Incorporating sustainable packaging options and implementing recycling and composting programs can further demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. We all know that chefs use thousands of deli containers that eventually end up in a landfill. CamSquare® FreshPro Mini are a sustainable replacement for deli containers that will not only save the Earth from waste, they'll save your money!
If you’re offering plastic cups for water or cocktails, you’re literally throwing your money in the trash, and that trash is eventually polluting the environment. Stock your water station with Newport Tumblers and use Camwear Huntington® Tumblers for cocktails. Every Cambro tumbler is designed from durable plastic that resembles the look of delicate glass without the risk of breaking.
The restaurant industry faces significant challenges in 2023, and overcoming these hurdles requires proactive strategies and adaptability. Contact your local Cambro sales rep to find the best products to support your business.