How to Improve Restaurant Operations: 4 Tips from RFMA 2023

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June 13, 2023

Each year, the Restaurant Facilities Management Association (RFMA) hosts an annual conference that connects professionals across the industry to converse and display new and existing ideas, connect with existing clients, and catch up with peers. We’ve been a conference sponsor for the past few years, and it’s become one of the best ways to stay connected with the industry.

How to Improve Restaurant Operations: 4 Tips from RFMA 2023

This year, we had the chance to send Mark LeBerte, Donny Smith, Neil Townsend, Debra Zotto, and Melony Martin to attend the 2023 conference. Our team had a great time gathering with old friends, catching up with peers in the industry, and making connections with new facility directors. If you couldn’t make it, here are a few of the most important insights we noticed from the various RIF talks, breakout sessions, roundtable discussions, and conversations we had throughout the conference. We learned even more about how to run a successful restaurant kitchen.

1. The most successful restaurants balance industry trends with the foundational elements.

The restaurant industry has changed dramatically in the last few years. First, the pandemic forced restaurants to find new ways to attract and serve customers. Technology-enabled equipment has also been a popular topic across the industry. While these new trends can be a great way to attract new customers and boost sales, they can also be a challenge for restaurant managers to implement. The key for restaurant managers is to find a way to balance these new trends with the foundational basics of running a successful commercial kitchen. This means hiring the right staff, getting things right in the back of the house, and managing food costs effectively.

The restaurants that are thriving have found a way to incorporate the right trends into their operations without sacrificing the quality of the food or the customer experience.

2. Every restaurant is looking for innovative and effective ideas for hiring and training employees.

Hiring is a challenge that seems unanimous across the industry. Many of the main sessions and breakouts at RFMA were dedicated to helping restaurant owners and managers address the labor shortage. If you’re interested, you can check out a couple of RIF talks on the RFMA YouTube page. In addition to trying new ideas for attracting employees, such as enhancing benefits and offering flexible schedules, leaders highlighted the importance of training and developing employees in every part of your restaurant. For commercial kitchen managers, that means training staff to take ownership of the kitchen to create an environment they enjoy working in each day.

3. Establishing a solid operation requires building relationships with providers and vendors.

Restaurant owners and managers are having to manage an increasingly complex number of tasks and relationships to keep their operations running. With all those factors in mind, how can you build and maintain strong partnerships with your vendors? One of the most interesting RIF talks of 2023 highlighted this important idea.

At ATECH, we’ve built our business on valuing relationships over transactions and doing everything possible to support the restaurants and kitchens we partner with.

4. Restaurant owners and kitchen managers need to maintain equipment and address issues early.

A major trend we heard in conversations was the importance of equipment maintenance. We handed out our free Planned Maintenance Checklist and discussed work order automation to help commercial kitchens reduce downtime and keep everything running smoothly. Automation, equipment maintenance, and clear processes and roles are all part of how to run a restaurant kitchen efficiently.

ATECH: A Partner to Cover All Your Equipment Needs and Questions

We enjoyed attending RFMA 2023 to connect with other professionals in the restaurant industry. We learned a lot about the latest trends and technologies, made some valuable connections, and enjoyed each other’s company at our dinner at Boudro’s and party at Rio Rio Cantina. We hope to continue to build on these relationships in the future.

Attending industry events is just one of the ways we stay informed about restaurant industry trends. If you have an issue with your kitchen, refrigeration, or HVAC equipment or want to discuss what type of outside equipment you should buy, we’re here to help. Feel free to reach out anytime through our website or over the phone.

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Spring into Cleanliness: Essential Tips for Restaurant Spring Cleaning

By markl • March 20, 2024

As the season changes and springtime blooms, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your restaurant space. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's about ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for your patrons and staff. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips and best practices for restaurant cleanliness in the springtime. Embrace Deep Cleaning : Spring cleaning is the ideal time to tackle those deep cleaning tasks that may have been neglected during the busier seasons. From scrubbing floors and walls to deep cleaning kitchen equipment, thorough sanitation ensures a hygienic environment for food preparation and service. Focus on High-Traffic Areas : Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as dining areas, restrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to accumulating dirt, dust, and germs, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining a pristine appearance and preventing the spread of illness. Refresh Outdoor Spaces : If your restaurant has outdoor seating areas, spring is the perfect time to freshen them up. Clean outdoor furniture, sweep away debris, and power wash outdoor surfaces to create an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining. Check and Replace Equipment Filters : Don't forget to inspect and replace filters in HVAC systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation hoods. Clean filters help maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for both customers and staff. Engage Staff in Cleaning Initiatives : Encourage staff members to take pride in the cleanliness of the restaurant by involving them in spring cleaning initiatives. Assign specific tasks and provide training on proper cleaning procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedule : Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep up with cleaning tasks throughout the year. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can maintain a high standard of cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. Invest in Quality Cleaning Products : Choose cleaning products that are effective yet environmentally friendly. Look for products that are certified as safe for use in foodservice establishments and follow manufacturer recommendations for proper application and usage. Monitor and Adjust Cleaning Protocols : Continuously monitor cleaning protocols and adjust as needed based on feedback, customer traffic, and changing regulations. Regular evaluation ensures that your cleaning practices remain effective and in compliance with industry standards. Spring cleaning is an essential aspect of restaurant maintenance that goes beyond just aesthetics. By implementing thorough cleaning routines, engaging staff members, and investing in quality cleaning products, you can create a safe, hygienic environment that enhances the dining experience for your customers and promotes a healthy work environment for your staff. As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember that ATECH is here to support you with a wide range of cleaning and maintenance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your restaurant. Happy spring cleaning!

Mastering Winter with ATECH: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

By markl • January 26, 2024

Winter is here, and at ATECH, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in keeping their commercial equipment running smoothly during the colder months. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the strategies, tips, and success stories that can help your business navigate winter effortlessly. From equipment maintenance to emergency services, consider this your go-to resource for mastering winter with ATECH. Winter Equipment Maintenance Tips Checklist for Winter-Ready Equipment: Inspect Seals and Gaskets : Ensure a tight seal to prevent cold air leakage. Check Insulation : Evaluate the insulation of walk-in coolers and freezers. Clean and Sanitize : Thoroughly clean and sanitize all equipment surfaces. Temperature Adjustment : Set optimal winter temperatures for each piece of equipment. ATech Maintenance Tips for Different Equipment: Fryers and Grills : Clean and inspect burners for efficient operation. Ice Machines : Check water lines for insulation and replace filters regularly. Heating Systems : Schedule preventive maintenance to optimize efficiency. Electronic Equipment : Keep spaces well-heated and clean to prevent malfunctions. Businesses often grapple with specific equipment failures that can disrupt operations. ATECH understands the challenges posed by heating system malfunctions, electronic equipment performance, and other issues during the colder months. To tackle these common winter-related failures, businesses should prioritize preventive measures. Regular heating system maintenance checks and air filter replacements can prevent malfunctions. For electronic equipment, maintaining ambient room temperature and conducting routine cleaning are key strategies to ensure optimal performance throughout winter. ATECH's Winter Services: A Lifeline for Your Business Winter demands a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, and ATECH stands as the lifeline for businesses navigating the challenges of the season. Our comprehensive winter services go beyond mere repair and include prompt equipment repairs, planned maintenance, and emergency services. With a commitment to same-day service for urgent winter emergencies, ATECH ensures that businesses can rely on swift resolution during critical times. What sets us apart is our team of factory-trained and CFESA-certified technicians, offering not just reliability but a dedicated partnership to keep your business running smoothly through the coldest months. Trust in ATECH, your lifeline in the winter business landscape. Winter doesn't have to be a season of uncertainty for your business. With ATECH by your side, you have a reliable partner dedicated to providing top-notch equipment repairs and maintenance services. Master winter with confidence, knowing that our comprehensive guide and expert services are here to support your business every step of the way. For personalized winter readiness assessments and expert guidance, contact ATECH today. Let's navigate winter together, and keep your business thriving.