If you are a typical quick-service restaurant operation, you have been in business for a few years, and have had a good run because of smart marketing and a great product. Maybe you bought an existing property and have nursed it from a "just getting by" business to one with a decent financial return.
You have probably thought about updating your shop to appeal to a broader base of customers, or researched the cost of using newer technology to keep your "techie" crowd coming in the door. Where do you start? What products out there will be cost-effective yet bring you up to speed with your competitors?
Taking the first steps in exploring equipment options is a little scary. You could "google" restaurant menu board design, or you could walk the aisles at trade shows and speak with several restaurant equipment suppliers, or you could ask your local restaurant association for recommendations. These are all decent starting points. An informed consumer is a good consumer, as the saying goes. Give yourself a good base of knowledge first.
Part of your preparation and research should include a proper background check of the companies that offer the line of equipment that seems to be the best fit for you. See what others think about their customer service. Do they provide a good warranty on their products? How about installation - will they work with you on your timeline, so the store has the least downtime for your updating? Have they been around a while, and will they be around tomorrow if you want to change or add to your equipment?
Then there are the equipment solutions themselves: do suppliers want to shoe-horn their products to fit your needs, or are they willing to listen to what you want, explore options, and offer you viable and cost-effective solutions that work for you? There is no "one size fits all" answer for restaurant businesses! Are they willing to admit their strengths and weaknesses, or do they offer solutions outside their capabilities? Honesty and integrity are ideals to be valued in any business relationship!
Sometimes the best approach to finding the best solutions for your restaurant is to reach out to your local restaurant supply house. They work with and know companies that are accomplished at creating solutions for the restaurant industry's needs. If you look online, check out the history of the manufacturer you are considering. If available, read the comments from others who have made purchases. If you are able, network with other restaurateurs to learn what they have found that works well for them. Chances are, if the manufacturer is excellent and reliable, other shops will be using their products. Bear in mind that just because one solution works for someone else, it may not work for you. Look for a company that offers an array of product solutions you can tailor to your needs or one that will work with you to find your perfect answer.
Maybe you aren't ready right now to make the big move to buy new menu boards or equipment for your restaurant, but it certainly pays to be prepared for the day when you take that step. Spending some time doing research and building those relationships with a company you trust will benefit you in the long run!
This article was originally published on May 26, 2016 and has been updated with new content.
