Why (Most) Food Operations Need Consulting

As we mark a significant milestone with our 100th article, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on the journey that has brought us to this point. Over the past year, we've explored various topics related to the fast casual food industry, from menu engineering to marketing strategies. Today, I'd like to indulge in some self-promotion, not just for myself, but for the entire industry of restaurant and fast casual consultants. Our expertise can be a game-changer for food operators, and I'm excited to share why.

The harsh reality is that the fast casual food industry is highly competitive, and the statistics are daunting. According to a study by CB Insights, a staggering 60% of restaurants fail within the first year, and a whopping 80% shut down within the first five years (CB Insights, 2020). Another study by Toast, a restaurant technology company, found that 90% of restaurants fail within the first 10 years, with the majority closing their doors within the first five years (Toast, 2020). These numbers are a sobering reminder of the challenges that food operators face.

While there are various reasons why restaurants fail, it's clear that many of these establishments could have benefited from expert guidance. This is where consultants come in – professionals with extensive experience in the industry who can provide tailored advice and support to help food operators overcome common challenges.

As a consultant myself, I've seen firsthand the positive impact that our services can have on a business. From optimizing menu pricing to streamlining operations, our expertise can help food operators improve their bottom line, enhance customer satisfaction, and stay ahead of the competition.

But consulting is not just for struggling restaurants. Even successful establishments can benefit from our services. In fact, some of the most successful fast casual chains have worked with consultants to refine their strategies, identify areas for improvement, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.

So, if you're a food operator, I urge you to consider consulting as a vital investment in your business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your established brand to the next level, our expertise can help you navigate the complexities of the industry and achieve your goals.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: "I've been in this industry for years, I know what I'm doing." Or, "I don't need some consultant telling me how to run my business." But the truth is, no one has all the answers, and even the most experienced operators can benefit from a fresh perspective.

Consulting is not about telling you how to run your business; it's about providing you with the tools, expertise, and support you need to make informed decisions and drive growth. Our role is to help you identify areas for improvement, develop strategies to address those challenges, and provide guidance on implementation.

So, what can you expect from working with a consultant? Here are just a few benefits:

• Improved profitability: Our expertise can help you optimize menu pricing, reduce waste, and streamline operations to increase your bottom line.
• Enhanced customer satisfaction: We can help you develop strategies to improve customer service, improve menu offerings, and create a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
• Increased efficiency: Our guidance can help you streamline processes, reduce labor costs, and improve supply chain management.
• Competitive advantage: We can help you stay ahead of the competition by identifying trends, developing innovative marketing strategies, and providing expert advice on menu engineering and product development.

In conclusion, as we celebrate our 100th article, I want to emphasize the importance of consulting in the fast casual food industry. Whether you're a struggling restaurant or a successful chain, our expertise can help you improve, adapt, and thrive in a rapidly changing market.

So, don't be afraid to ask for help. Don't be too proud to seek guidance. And don't assume that you have all the answers. By working with a consultant, you can take your business to the next level, achieve your goals, and stay competitive in the industry.

As the renowned business consultant and former Harvard and NYU professor, Peter Drucker, once said, "The best way to predict the future is to create it." By investing in consulting, you can create a brighter future for your business and achieve success that you never thought possible.

Are you looking for help? Even a free 10 minute consultation can help you make 1 change that could help your business succeed.

If you are interested in private consulting, do not hesitate to hit the button below!