United Kingdom, September 16, 2013- For consistent profits and remain competitive in foodservice business, it is necessary to focus on ways to retain existing customers. This industry is all about generating repeat business. According to industry stalwarts, it is highly cost-effective to retain existing customers than investing on ways to find new customers. The trick lies in keeping customers happy so that they feel motivated to return. Effective communication, brilliant service, quick response, politeness, efficiency and individualized catering are the traits that need to be incorporated in this business.
Flexibility is also required as some customers have specific requests and they don’t generally compromise on that. In case such requests cannot be entertained then a genuine effort should be made to make them understand without making them feel ignored. Though foodservice operations should be realistic and profitable, it should not be at the cost of quality of food. Customers are always willing to pay extra for quality food. Asking for feedback from customers helps maintain contact post event. It also indicates that the service provider cares about its service. This creates an opportunity to discuss future possibilities which may be on a larger scale. Foodservice is about satisfying everyone’s appetite. Brand promotion can take a back seat on the day of the event and focus should be on ensuring that no customer leaves hungry.
The sole criterion to surge ahead in this industry is reputation and that comes from great service. The success of a foodservice company depends on the likelihood of return of customers.
Today’s Group, which was established nearly 30 years ago, has grown to become UK’s largest buying group with over 250 members, with a combined buying power of £5 billion. Despite an increasingly challenging and changing marketplace, it has been unlocking the untapped potential in this area. The group is well aware that although frequency of dining out is still firm, consumer spend has fallen. As such it is working to help its customers adapt to these trends, by supporting outlets that wish to cater for cheaper eating out occasions. And to help maintain consumer interest, the group has adopted menu innovation which concentrates on new cuisines and healthy dishes. It has worked to meet greater demand for quality produce and improve its offerings.
Today's Group also supplies food items that consumers want to try out after witnessing the same in supermarkets and on TV cookery programs.
About the company: Today Group’s foodservice arm dates back to 1985. Despite the murmurs of a triple dip recession, the group had grown ahead of the market at +3% in value and +1% in volume.