In 2018, labor was a top concern for foodservice operators. According to data from TDn2K, the average restaurant turnover rate reached 133% last year. Labor is a top driver of increased menu prices, leading 90% of operators to increase menu prices over the past two years (Technomic’s 2017 Value & Pricing Report). Because 48% of consumers look for low prices from restaurants so they can go out to eat more often, raising menu prices to offset labor costs can negatively impact overall traffic (Technomic’s 2017 Value & Pricing Report).
As labor concerns carry over in to the new year, one way to maintain an affordable menu is by speeding up service. One method that operators may use to ensure quicker service is investing in technology that increases back-of-house efficiencies and decreases cook times.
Automation
Implementing technology with automated features can streamline BOH prep, therefore contributing to a more positive experience for consumers who dine away from home for the convenience or experiential aspects in provides. Creating this positive experience can impact value. In fact, 22% of consumers say that kitchen automation that speeds up service is important for creating value (Technomic’s 2017 Value & Pricing Report).
Implementing updated technology, like an oven with a touch screen and programmable settings, can have very little training time. Approximately 64% of foodservice employees in 2017 fell between the ages of 16 and 34 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This majority, which encompasses Millennials and older members of Gen Z, are digitally savvy and more likely to quickly adopt new technology.
Innovation
Maximizing personnel efficiency will only get you so far in speeding up service and satisfying the 74% of consumers who say it’s important when making a decision on where to dine (Technomic’s 2017 Value & Pricing Report). Back-of-house staff can only cook items as quickly as their equipment will allow. High-speed oven technology and multiple cavities can drastically cut down cook times while simultaneously amplifying yield.
Introducing new equipment can be a significant financial investment. But serving more diners faster creates a better experience that will inspire return visits which results in long-term improvements to your bottom line. Get a better understanding of ROI in action using this calculator.
Further details:
Ovention Ovens® ensures efficiency for both your back-of-house staff and the items that they craft. The new Ovention Double MiLO® Oven allows your operation to profit on unmatched speed and consistency to satisfy your demanding customer base. This ventless oven uses first-of-its-kind technology that integrates decoupled air and infrared technology for even, consistent cooking. The Double MiLO gives operators the flexibility to cook items at two different temperatures for maximum yield and operational efficiency. Craft menu items in two separate, individually controlled cooking cavities, each with their own independent full-color UI control. Your staff can multitask even more with USB loading capabilities for easy programming and shared settings between both ovens. Increase speed, and value, with one-of-a-kind technology from Ovention.
