A report on the potential benefits of an innovative employment model for the restaurant industry
The restaurant industry has faced many challenges and uncertainties during the pandemic and its aftermath. Many restaurants have struggled to survive, adapt, and reopen amid changing health regulations, consumer preferences, and labor shortages. In this context, an innovative employment model that leverages the gig economy and offers flexibility to both workers and employers could be a viable solution to revitalize the sector.
One possible model is to use a platform similar to DoorDash, where restaurant workers can sign up as independent contractors and choose their own hours, locations, and tasks. This would allow workers to have more control over their income, schedule, and work-life balance, as well as access to a variety of opportunities and experiences. For employers, this would reduce the fixed costs of hiring and training staff, as well as the risks of turnover and absenteeism. Moreover, it would enable them to adjust their staffing levels according to demand and availability, ensuring optimal service quality and efficiency.
Another possible model is to implement an employee rotation program among local restaurants, where workers can work for different establishments on a regular basis. This would create a pool of skilled and versatile workers who can adapt to different environments, cuisines, and customer segments. It would also foster collaboration and learning among restaurants, as well as a sense of community and belonging among workers. For employers, this would increase the supply and diversity of talent, as well as the retention and loyalty of staff. Furthermore, it would allow them to share best practices and resources, as well as to coordinate marketing and promotion strategies.
Both models could offer significant benefits for the restaurant industry in terms of innovation, resilience, and competitiveness. However, they also entail some challenges and limitations that need to be addressed. For instance, some workers may prefer more stability and security than what gig employment can provide. Some employers may be reluctant to share their staff or customers with other restaurants. Some customers may value consistency and familiarity over variety and novelty. Therefore, further research is needed to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of these models in different contexts and scenarios.
Some other benefits that these models could provide are:
- Enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty by offering more choices, convenience, and personalization.
- Improving employee satisfaction and motivation by providing more autonomy, recognition, and feedback.
- Promoting social responsibility and sustainability by reducing waste, emissions, and energy consumption.
- Stimulating economic growth and development by creating more jobs, income, and tax revenue.
From 2020-2023 we saw a lot of pushback on automation as food service operators weren't familiar with the ongoing monthly fee models. Now they understand that no matter how you look at it, automated kiosks are a better option so they can get more offerings to consumers with much less labor. You could offer coffee, food, fresh beverages, etc. with one employee instead of 6+.