While making a good first impression is important in all industries, it could be said that it’s essential in the restaurant industry. After all, patrons are paying for two things: the incredible food and the accompanied ambiance. If the experience is missing, that needs to change.
While little things like restaurant apps and quality customer service are big ways to improve the restaurant experience, business owners should upgrade their physical space to stay current. Even if your restaurant attracts a lot of business, it’s necessary to give it the right facelift to keep up with new competition. A major construction and renovation project can drive more sales to your restaurant, but how can owners stick to their plans while they’re juggling everything else?
4 Ways to Keep a Major Restaurant Project On Track
If your restaurant has been open for 7 or more years and still looks the same, it’s time for a change. Here’s how business owners should handle their construction or renovation plans.
1. Find the Right Commercial Contractor/Developer
Unfortunately, most restaurant construction projects aren’t finished on time, and that usually isn’t the contractor’s fault. A combination of supply chain issues and poor communication often leaves all parties in a bind. However, experienced contractors or developers are better with deadlines.
Before selecting a company, research local contractors and developers that boast high review ratings. If they’ve been in business for a while, then they’re probably doing something right. Still, research is necessary to sort through the subpar companies that only offer cheap rates.
Next, ask them for a realistic time frame and an accurate budget. They should be able to look ahead and foresee any potential issues at the start of your project, meaning they can mitigate any setbacks that may arise. An efficient construction company will maintain an open line of communication with its customers throughout the project and ensure renovations go as planned.
2. Use Specialist Commercial Real Estate Software
Commercial real estate software, like what you’ll find on northspyre.com, are intelligence platforms that help development teams achieve predictable outcomes on projects. If you’re worried about missing an important deadline, such as your opening, this software is useful.
For one, it eliminates administrative tasks, like indexing and data extraction, by automating the process. It can also process all project data, which can help standardize your reports in the future. Finally, intelligence software can send alerts for budget challenges or cost-cutting opportunities. All of its tools will allow you to meet project quotas without going over budget.
However, it’s in your best interest to keep an eye on your software. While it can automate most things, it isn’t a magic tool, and there’s a chance you’ll miss something if you don’t pay attention.
If you’re not interested in using software, at least find a contractor that’s tech-focused. Without technology, contractors and developers won’t be able to offer by-the-minute reporting, which can affect your project decisions. Accurate data will also help you keep track of project deliverables.
3. Devise a Detailed Plan With Some Wiggle Room
While software can make the construction process easier, it can’t create a construction plan without some necessary information. Do you plan on moving the restaurant? If so, you need to look up construction permits for a new location. Either way, you need to apply for a license.
Next, consider the demographics, visibility, and accessibility of your restaurants. Are you in a place with a lot of foot traffic? If not, how are you going to attract local patrons? Are there nearby parking spaces or parking lots? If not, can you build one nearby? Do the people who live near your restaurant make up your target demographic? Has that target demographic changed?
Another thing to consider are your direct competitors. Do you have a similar restaurant idea or style? How can you differentiate from the competition? Then, ask yourself what you need for floor plan work. Can you cover lights, ventilation, floors and walls, and restaurant storage?
Once you know your deliverables, you can draw up a plan. It’s easier to do this with an experienced construction worker, as they know how much time everything takes. But make sure to add a buffer if things go wrong. An extra month is more than enough for most projects.
4. Get More Familiar With Industry Trends
Most restaurant owners don’t keep up-to-date with current restaurant design trends. They’re simply too busy managing the daily operations of their business. Still, paying attention to these trends can save you a lot of heartache in the future, especially if your design misses the mark.
For example, after the COVID-19 pandemic, patrons want a safe dining experience. This could mean expanding your outdoor dining options, adding plexiglass or plastic barriers between booths, or making it easier for patrons and waitstaff to stand 6 feet apart or wash their hands.
Texture and warm pallets were on trend in 2022 because both design choices provide a sense of hominess and comfort. Warm color palletes also make restaurants look cleaner. While these trends may disappear by 2023, reds, browns, and golden yellows will still be popular design choices for years to come. Consider adopting trends like these that are safe bets.
