Running a restaurant or cafe is like managing a beehive. It buzzes with activity, relies on teamwork, and thrives on harmony. However, unlike bees, your staff have a choice about where they work, and better staff amenities can often make a big difference to satisfaction and morale.
Recruitment and retention are key challenges in the hospitality industry. As restaurant or cafe owners, we compete not just for customers but also for the talent that makes our businesses succeed. Some of the facilities suggested here may seem unusual for a cafe or restaurant, but don’t forget – we are competing for talent that considers many of these facilities a normal part of the workplace. We need to look outside the world of hospitality for inspiration.
Why do staff leave? Sometimes, it’s for higher pay or better hours. But often, the smaller things tip the scales: an uncomfortable work area, a lack of personal space, or a working environment that doesn’t consider their needs. Improving staff facilities and amenities can create a workplace that attracts hard-working and loyal staff and encourages them to stay.
For many venues, space is tight, and everything is occupied by production, storage or customer seating – it makes sense! But many small improvements can be made – how many of these are possible?
A Space to Unwind: A well-set staff room can be a game-changer. It doesn’t need to be massive, but it should be comfortable, filled with cosy seats and tables for them to enjoy their break time. A splash of cheerful paint on the walls, good lighting and fun posters can make it feel like a snug corner to relax. Cleaning this space should be part of the venue cleaner’s daily duties – people are naturally untidy and sometimes forget to clear away their rubbish.
Kitchen Comforts: Anti-fatigue mats can help staff stand comfortably for long hours. Good ventilation can reduce heat and cooking fumes, and plenty of chilled water helps make the kitchen a more pleasant place to work.
Outdoor Space: If you have a little outdoor space, transform it into a small garden for staff. It could be a refreshing spot to take a breather, get a dose of sunlight, and enjoy nature during breaks. It might also be your designated smoking area for employees.
Personal Storage: Provide lockers where your staff can securely store their belongings. It’s a simple way to respect their privacy and offer peace of mind while they’re working hard to serve customers. Choose the ones where staff provide their own padlock – this will eliminate the constant headache of lost keys!
Freshen Up: Clean, well-maintained toilets are essential for staff comfort and dignity. Go a step further by adding amenities like quality soap, lotion and deodorant, and some fresh flowers to brighten the space.
Shower Facilities: Consider providing a shower facility. This will be deeply appreciated by staff who cycle to work, have a long commute, or do long hot shifts. Having the option to freshen up can greatly boost morale and comfort. Showing that you care about your staff’s personal comfort and hygiene needs is an excellent way to earn their respect and loyalty. A clean, comfortable personal space at work can make all the difference.
Eating Together: Encourage camaraderie by setting up a small pantry or dining space where your staff can have meals together. Equip it with a fridge, microwave, and perhaps a coffee machine. Offering free tea, coffee, or fresh fruit will be appreciated.
Chilled Water: Everyone appreciates a supply of filtered cold water – set up a tap to supply this, and it also cuts down on the cost of bottled water or endless sugary soft drinks.
Noticeboard: For sharing announcements, policy changes and information about future events and marketing activities. Encourage people to add their announcements in a separate section in addition to your online communication systems like Slack or WhatsApp.
Celebration Corner: Designate a small corner or noticeboard for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and achievements. Displaying photos and messages can foster a sense of belonging and demonstrate appreciation for your team.
Charge Up Station: Provide an area with charging ports or stations for electronic devices. It’s a small gesture, but it can mean a lot to staff needing to recharge their devices during breaks.
Staff Parking: A designated parking area can be a major convenience for staff who drive to work – secure, well lit and with space for everyone who needs it. Or you may have a discount arrangement with a nearby parking station.
Cycle Storage: If any of your staff cycle to work, providing a safe and secure area for bike storage can be a helpful amenity. This encourages healthy habits and shows you respect their choice of transport.
First Aid Kit: Your team will appreciate that their safety and well-being is a top priority. This also includes training staff on how to use it, and care with supplying painkillers that could be abused.
Music for Their Ears: Allow staff to play their own music during non-peak hours or in their break areas. It could be a fun way for them to feel more at home and to share their favourite tunes with their colleagues.
Flexible Seating: Add different types of seating such as bean bags, high stools, or even hammocks. This gives your team a choice of where to relax during their break.
Uniform Comfort: If uniforms are required, make sure they are comfortable and suitable for the temperature of the work environment. It’s also nice if they look good so staff can wear them proudly. Ironing facilities will also be appreciated, but make sure there is an automatic off-switch on the iron to avoid accidental fires if people forget to turn them off!
Exercise Equipment: If you have spare space, consider investing in simple equipment. A couple of dumbbells or even a stationary bike can provide an outlet for stress and promote healthy habits. You may also get a good deal or free access for staff at a local gym – you both have services that could be swapped.
Promote Healthy Eating: If you provide staff meals, avoid options like chips, fried food and junk. This could be the best meal of the day for many staff, and a good one will be appreciated. Breakfast cereal is also a good option for the morning shift.
Prayer Space: Providing a quiet and clean space for prayer can be very valuable to your staff who observe religious practices, like Muslims who pray five times a day. It doesn’t need to be a large space but should offer privacy and tranquillity.
Language Support: If staff members speak different languages, consider offering language support or resources. This helps them communicate better at work and shows respect and appreciation for their culture.
The recruitment and retention challenges in the hospitality industry are not to be underestimated. However, they can be significantly reduced by providing better facilities that cater to staff needs, whether it’s a comfortable break area, health and fitness opportunities, cultural inclusivity or religious accommodation.
These overlooked elements of comfort and respect can become your secret weapon in attracting and retaining talented people and help you compete with other industries that have poached hospitality workers in the last few years.
A thriving, buzzing hive doesn’t just happen; it’s carefully nurtured. Invest in creating a hive where every worker bee feels valued and content. A happy team is at the heart of every successful restaurant.
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Running a restaurant or cafe is like managing a beehive. It buzzes with activity, relies on teamwork, and thrives on harmony. However, unlike bees, your staff have a choice about where they work, and better staff amenities can often make a big difference to satisfaction and morale.
Recruitment and retention are key challenges in the hospitality industry. As restaurant or cafe owners, we compete not just for customers but also for the talent that makes our businesses succeed. Some of the facilities suggested here may seem unusual for a cafe or restaurant, but don’t forget – we are competing for talent that considers many of these facilities a normal part of the workplace. We need to look outside the world of hospitality for inspiration.
Why do staff leave? Sometimes, it’s for higher pay or better hours. But often, the smaller things tip the scales: an uncomfortable work area, a lack of personal space, or a working environment that doesn’t consider their needs. Improving staff facilities and amenities can create a workplace that attracts hard-working and loyal staff and encourages them to stay.
For many venues, space is tight, and everything is occupied by production, storage or customer seating – it makes sense! But many small improvements can be made – how many of these are possible?
A Space to Unwind: A well-set staff room can be a game-changer. It doesn’t need to be massive, but it should be comfortable, filled with cosy seats and tables for them to enjoy their break time. A splash of cheerful paint on the walls, good lighting and fun posters can make it feel like a snug corner to relax. Cleaning this space should be part of the venue cleaner’s daily duties – people are naturally untidy and sometimes forget to clear away their rubbish.
Kitchen Comforts: Anti-fatigue mats can help staff stand comfortably for long hours. Good ventilation can reduce heat and cooking fumes, and plenty of chilled water helps make the kitchen a more pleasant place to work.
Outdoor Space: If you have a little outdoor space, transform it into a small garden for staff. It could be a refreshing spot to take a breather, get a dose of sunlight, and enjoy nature during breaks. It might also be your designated smoking area for employees.
Personal Storage: Provide lockers where your staff can securely store their belongings. It’s a simple way to respect their privacy and offer peace of mind while they’re working hard to serve customers. Choose the ones where staff provide their own padlock – this will eliminate the constant headache of lost keys!
Freshen Up: Clean, well-maintained toilets are essential for staff comfort and dignity. Go a step further by adding amenities like quality soap, lotion and deodorant, and some fresh flowers to brighten the space.
Shower Facilities: Consider providing a shower facility. This will be deeply appreciated by staff who cycle to work, have a long commute, or do long hot shifts. Having the option to freshen up can greatly boost morale and comfort. Showing that you care about your staff’s personal comfort and hygiene needs is an excellent way to earn their respect and loyalty. A clean, comfortable personal space at work can make all the difference.
Eating Together: Encourage camaraderie by setting up a small pantry or dining space where your staff can have meals together. Equip it with a fridge, microwave, and perhaps a coffee machine. Offering free tea, coffee, or fresh fruit will be appreciated.
Chilled Water: Everyone appreciates a supply of filtered cold water – set up a tap to supply this, and it also cuts down on the cost of bottled water or endless sugary soft drinks.
Noticeboard: For sharing announcements, policy changes and information about future events and marketing activities. Encourage people to add their announcements in a separate section in addition to your online communication systems like Slack or WhatsApp.
Celebration Corner: Designate a small corner or noticeboard for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and achievements. Displaying photos and messages can foster a sense of belonging and demonstrate appreciation for your team.
Charge Up Station: Provide an area with charging ports or stations for electronic devices. It’s a small gesture, but it can mean a lot to staff needing to recharge their devices during breaks.
Staff Parking: A designated parking area can be a major convenience for staff who drive to work – secure, well lit and with space for everyone who needs it. Or you may have a discount arrangement with a nearby parking station.
Cycle Storage: If any of your staff cycle to work, providing a safe and secure area for bike storage can be a helpful amenity. This encourages healthy habits and shows you respect their choice of transport.
First Aid Kit: Your team will appreciate that their safety and well-being is a top priority. This also includes training staff on how to use it, and care with supplying painkillers that could be abused.
Music for Their Ears: Allow staff to play their own music during non-peak hours or in their break areas. It could be a fun way for them to feel more at home and to share their favourite tunes with their colleagues.
Flexible Seating: Add different types of seating such as bean bags, high stools, or even hammocks. This gives your team a choice of where to relax during their break.
Uniform Comfort: If uniforms are required, make sure they are comfortable and suitable for the temperature of the work environment. It’s also nice if they look good so staff can wear them proudly. Ironing facilities will also be appreciated, but make sure there is an automatic off-switch on the iron to avoid accidental fires if people forget to turn them off!
Exercise Equipment: If you have spare space, consider investing in simple equipment. A couple of dumbbells or even a stationary bike can provide an outlet for stress and promote healthy habits. You may also get a good deal or free access for staff at a local gym – you both have services that could be swapped.
Promote Healthy Eating: If you provide staff meals, avoid options like chips, fried food and junk. This could be the best meal of the day for many staff, and a good one will be appreciated. Breakfast cereal is also a good option for the morning shift.
Prayer Space: Providing a quiet and clean space for prayer can be very valuable to your staff who observe religious practices, like Muslims who pray five times a day. It doesn’t need to be a large space but should offer privacy and tranquillity.
Language Support: If staff members speak different languages, consider offering language support or resources. This helps them communicate better at work and shows respect and appreciation for their culture.
The recruitment and retention challenges in the hospitality industry are not to be underestimated. However, they can be significantly reduced by providing better facilities that cater to staff needs, whether it’s a comfortable break area, health and fitness opportunities, cultural inclusivity or religious accommodation.
These overlooked elements of comfort and respect can become your secret weapon in attracting and retaining talented people and help you compete with other industries that have poached hospitality workers in the last few years.
A thriving, buzzing hive doesn’t just happen; it’s carefully nurtured. Invest in creating a hive where every worker bee feels valued and content. A happy team is at the heart of every successful restaurant.
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