People prefer to buy from people they like. We like to know a little history about a business. We like to think we are doing business in someplace special, with special people. The most successful businesses have great stories to tell and these stories serve to engage their associates and customers in what makes their … Continued
The best companies know that if their brand stands for something the consumer does not want, a lot of money is going to be spent propping that part of the business up. At some point, the company will become weary of doing so and seek another direction. There has been a lot of talk about … Continued
Maybe fewer people are going to Hawaii this summer, but they are still going out for a drink tomorrow night. And the next night. They have to have something to eat and something to wear, too. There’s opportunity to make money in any economy. James Jeffrey of the Austin Business Journal asked me about this … Continued
I’ve been thinking back on the recent Southwest Foodservice Expo, reflecting on the technological advances available to the industry. Which are real and which are ephemeral? Technology marches on. Who needs a buzzer to tell you table is ready when a restaurant can text you? I had started to think about this during the show. … Continued
When the best companies aim to increase sales, the first thing they do is evaluate and improve the customer experience. Then, once it is up to standard, they use that to define their brand and enroll frequent users. What is the point of focusing on bringing people through your front doors before you have something … Continued
12 key findings from the recent survey we conducted in a partnership with the Texas Restaurant Association. 2012 Restaurateur Issues and Challenges March 1, 2012 2012 Restaurateur Issues and Challenges Survey Results We now know several new things about restaurateurs these days: • They are generally optimistic about their future. • They identify their top … Continued
Successful business people keep their eyes on their own product, creativity, service, culture and execution. When they do their job right, they have an awareness of what other businesses are doing, but spend their time perfecting what they themselves are doing. Quick service, fast casual, casual dining, fine dining. Think fast! There’s a good chance … Continued