Welcoming the new year means more than simply creating personal resolutions – it’s also about giving your work life and business a new start. We’ve identified some of the top trends in the hospitality industry to help you welcome 2017 in style.
1. Healthy options are here to stay
Making healthy choices is no longer a wishful New Year’s goal. As more and more people opt for healthy dining options, it’s important to cater for this growing trend. Even fast food joints are opting for fresh, quality ingredients in their meals.
Similarly, vegetarianism and veganism are on the rise. Between 2012 and 2016, vegetarianism rose from 9.7% of the population to 11.2%. Having plant-based options is a crucial factor for many Australians when choosing where to eat. Keep this in mind when developing your 2017 menu, or you could be cutting out potential customers.
2. Listen to your customers
The old adage rings true: The customer is always right. Make it your goal in 2017 to take on-board customer feedback – even if it’s not so flattering. Social media is no longer a new avenue for customers to leave reviews for cafes and restaurants. What your customers say about you is available to the public. Asking your customers what they liked and didn’t like is a great way to be a part of that conversation at an early stage.
3. Sustainability is king
We live in a world of finite resources and your customers are aware of that. There’s a growing trend towards local, sustainable produce – but it’s not just your menu that can benefit from the sustainable touch. Using upcycled décor in your restaurant or café can show customers that you’re socially conscious while lending stylish flair.
There are so many ways to integrate a sustainable model into your business. From recyclable and biodegradable take-away containers to environmentally-friendly uniforms, every little thing makes a big impact. At Urbanbar, we’re committed to using only natural fibre products where possible, along with creating well-made, durable uniforms to reduce landfill.
4. Great staff are your greatest asset
Hospitality is an industry renowned for its high staff turn-over. Great service should be at the forefront of any business. In hospitality that means ensuring your team are happy, well-trained and able to manage their workload. Finding great staff can be a challenge, so once you have them you want to hold onto them.
Offering your staff incentives, or providing them with ongoing training, can be a great way to keep them engaged and happy. Collaborate with your team to foster a positive working environment. Ensuring your staff are happy can help reduce turnover and create a talented, cohesive team.
5. Start thinking local
The hospitality industry is a highly competitive space. Understanding your local environment and incorporating it into your business is a great way to maintain a unique competitive advantage.
Australians love places that feature a distinctive local flair. From local produce and native foods to collaborations with local artists, getting to know your community is the ultimate way to stay on-the-pulse in 2017.
2017 is an exciting year for the hospitality industry. We can’t wait to explore the new trends that are sure to emerge in hospitality and workwear. To stay part of the conversation and get the latest updates, sign-up to the Urbanbar newsletter today.
