Cutting down on waste in your restaurant is an admirable goal. The less you waste, the more money you have to spend on more important things. Unfortunately, cutting down on waste is often easier said than done. Luckily, by taking the steps listed below, you can minimize waste in your restaurant.
Reuse Items Around the Restaurant
For many restaurants, the idea of reusing items is unthinkable, but in reality, there are many ways to reuse items. Instead of disposable napkins, try using cloth napkins that can be rewashed and reused. Use cloth tablecloths instead of paper ones that can be drawn on. You can also laminate menus so they can be used over and over.
Silverware is also a major expense. Many restaurants have eliminated plastic utensils altogether and only use real silverware. Some restaurants also save money by only offering straws and additional paper products if they are requested.
Give Food to Charity or Employees
Each year, countless tons of food go to waste in the United States alone, and in reality, wasting food is unnecessary. Numerous charities accept food donations from restaurants around the country, and when you give, your gift may even be tax-deductible. Or, you can give the leftover food to your employees.
Use a POS System
Does your restaurant use an up-to-date POS system? If not, you may be wasting money. Modern POS systems save money by allowing restaurants to minimize paper waste. Instead of writing down orders on paper, your POS system can keep track of any orders you may take. A POS system can also eliminate the need to use paper when keeping up with inventory. You can use a reporting feature to keep track of which items you need to buy more of and which ones to buy less of.
Use Food in a Timely Manner
If you are interested in VA restaurant insurance, you probably know it is wise to use your food in a timely manner. By allowing food to sit and spoil, you are throwing away money, so you should keep track of the “use by” and “expire” dates on the food you use. Here are some easy ways to avoid wasting food:
- Carefully mark the dates you use your food on labels.
- Use your POS system to keep track of food delivery dates.
- Pay special attention to perishable items, such as vegetables.
By taking the steps listed above, you can reduce food waste in your restaurant.
Reach Out to Blue Sky Agency
For over 20 years, family owned Blue Sky Insurance Agency has proudly specialized in insurance and tax services for Virginia residents. Our philosophy is simple: “If you can dream it, we can insure it.” We strive to provide value to our clients by establishing and building relationships and focusing on more than just rates. We are dedicated to providing holistic and strategically tailored solutions to protect all of your assets, and to provide peace of mind wherever life takes you. To get in touch with us, fill out a complimentary quote form, or call us at one of our two locations:
North Chesterfield
Phone: (804) 745-4044
PO Box 35674
North Chesterfield, VA, 23235
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm
Richmond
Phone: (804) 404-2030
9932 Midlothian Turnpike
Richmond, VA, 23235
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm