Do you want to change suppliers, but don\'t know how to choose the best one? Is a lot of food being wasted in your restaurant, and weekly inventories are a burdensome chore? These are common challenges that can significantly impact the profitability and efficiency of your food establishment. At Bon Vivant Advisory (BVA), we know that product is the foundation of every restaurant\'s operation. Its quality, availability, and price are crucial. On one hand, the chef focuses on the highest quality and constant availability of raw materials. On the other hand, the owner focuses on optimal price and efficient contact with suppliers. Our role is to combine these perspectives and advise on what to consider when choosing business partners to achieve sustainable success.
The Foundation for Your Restaurant\'s Efficiency
Warehouse Management and Effective Inventories An important element of raw material management is also effective warehouse management. This involves regular stocktaking, both in the kitchen and at the bar. We know that inventory can be a time-consuming and laborious task that is often pushed aside.
That's why we introduce proven procedures and clever solutions that organize warehouse management and facilitate daily inventory control. At Bon Vivant Advisory (BVA) we not only help implement such solutions, but also train your staff on how to use them. This will make inventories simpler, faster, and, most importantly, more precise. Effective warehouse management means:
Less food waste: Precise inventory control minimizes losses. Better purchasing planning: You avoid over-ordering and shortages. More accurate cost control: You have full insight into what you have in stock and how much it costs. Time savings: Automation of inventory processes relieves your team. Identification and reduction of losses: Accurate inventories allow you to identify where and why product losses occur (e.g., due to spoilage, preparation errors, damage, or improper storage), enabling the implementation of appropriate corrective actions. Reduced risk of theft: Regular and precise inventories act as a preventative measure and help quickly detect any irregularities resulting from dishonest staff, protecting your financial resources. Portion control and standardization: Strict inventory management allows for verification that served portions correspond to established grammages. This is crucial for maintaining a consistent food cost for each dish and ensuring that every guest receives the same quality and quantity of product.
Optimization of Supplier Selection
Choosing the right suppliers is a strategic decision that affects the quality of your dishes, customer satisfaction, and, just as importantly, your margins. We will help you in this process by analyzing aspects such as:
Product quality and freshness: We will ensure that the raw materials supplied meet the highest standards, corresponding to your kitchen concept. Prices and commercial terms: We will analyze offers and help with negotiations to ensure you get the best possible prices without compromising on quality. Reliability and timeliness of deliveries: We support in choosing suppliers who guarantee punctuality and certainty of deliveries, minimizing the risk of downtime. Customer service and flexibility: A good supplier is a partner who responds to your needs and can adapt to the dynamically changing demands of the industry. Local suppliers vs. larger players: We will help evaluate the benefits and disadvantages of cooperating with different types of suppliers, taking into account the specifics of your business.
Professional supplier and raw material management is an investment that pays off quickly.
Reducing waste, optimizing purchasing costs, and improving inventory processes directly translate into increased profitability for your restaurant.
Contact Bon Vivant Advisory (BVA) today to learn how we can help you improve raw material and supplier management, improve financial results, and make your work easier and more efficient.
Consultation: 1h / 250 PLN netto. The first consultation (1h) is free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the right choice of suppliers so important for my restaurant? The choice of suppliers is the foundation of your business. The quality and freshness of the products you serve to guests depend on them, which directly translates into the taste of the dishes and the reputation of your restaurant. Equally important are the price and timeliness of deliveries, which have a huge impact on your food cost, operational fluidity, and ultimate profitability. Good suppliers are partners who help you maintain high standards, minimize waste, and effectively manage costs.
What criteria should I consider when choosing a new supplier? When choosing a supplier, it is crucial to consider several aspects. Firstly, quality and freshness of products – make sure they meet your standards. Secondly, price and commercial terms – negotiate to get optimal rates and favorable payment terms. Thirdly, reliability and timeliness of deliveries – delays can paralyze kitchen operations. Flexibility and customer service are also important – a good supplier responds quickly to your needs. It is also worth paying attention to quality certificates and return and complaint policies.
How can I minimize food waste in my restaurant? Minimizing food waste is a multi-faceted process. Start with precise purchasing planning, based on sales forecasts and inventory data. Effective warehouse management is crucial – apply the FIFO (first-in, first-out) principle, store products properly, and regularly check expiration dates. Consider optimizing portion sizes and creative use of leftovers in other dishes. Staff training in proper food handling also brings tangible benefits.
Is it worth investing in warehouse and inventory management programs? Absolutely! Modern warehouse and inventory management programs are an investment that quickly pays off. They automate inventory processes, significantly increasing their precision and shortening the time. Thanks to them, you have real-time insight into inventory levels, which allows for better purchasing planning, minimizing excessive orders, and quickly identifying losses. They also streamline settlements with suppliers and facilitate food cost control. As a result, you gain greater financial and operational control.
See our services and solutions tailored to the real needs of your business.
