Having solid systems and processes in place is an essential part of any business. But how many of us use them as well as we should?
Regardless of the simplicity of some systems, many owners fall into the trap of neglecting them, instead adapting a ‘she’ll be right’ mentality.
What do you when you place an order with a supplier? If you are simply picking up the phone and ringing your order through, what happens if you’re at a meeting when the order arrives? The Bar Manager can sign for it, but how do they know that the stock that has arrived is correct?
If they are proactive staff, they’ll put the order away and into stock for you. During the next Bar Assessment, you have a shortfall – can you be sure that the order that arrived was genuinely checked against the docket? Or was the delivery short when it was signed for? Remember, signing for goods indicates that you have checked and received the correct goods as written on the docket.
When you look at the docket, you might find that the Rum you ordered is $5 more expensive per bottle than your previous order, even though you had an agreed on a price with the supplier. When you ring the supplier, they tell you that the special finished two weeks ago, even though your contact didn’t mention that.
If any of this sounds familiar, here’s a simple system that might help:
Record your order on a custom designed form, that includes with an order number, quantity, brand, size, price and any special delivery instructions. Send this to your supplier, so that you both have a complete record of what you have ordered. When your order arrives, ensure you check the invoice against both your order form and the stock received.
Our clients have seen savings of hundreds of dollars by implementing a simple system like this.