Maximise outdoor trading

Frankie Neale • Mar 02, 2021

Whether it’s the shady oasis of a country pub garden, or just a few picnic benches in a fenced-off corner of the car park, it rarely takes more than a glimpse of the sun for customers to pick up their pint glass and head outside.


This year, the alfresco element is set to be more important than ever to pubs and bars as the industry works to recover post-lockdown. The roadmap to reopening comes with a large dose of caution, but if all goes to plan those businesses able to offer outside service will be the first to be allowed to start trading.

The plan for England allows for pubs and bars to offer outdoor service from April 12th, with indoor trading not kicking in until May 17th. For operators hoping to take advantage of the earlier opportunity, a little forward planning to ensure that the business is ready and waiting as soon as those first thirsty customers arrive squinting in the spring sunlight could pay dividends. Aspects of outdoor trading to consider include: 

 

Portable EPOS


Robust and reliable portable bar EPOS devices are a key weapon in the outdoor trading armoury, allowing staff to move freely between tables, take orders and quickly process payments.   


Bookings and deposits


Keeping a register of customers using the business is likely to be a track-and-trace requirement for the foreseeable future. Taking bookings will not only capture this information but will also help to make the most of the outdoor trading opportunity by using all available outdoor tables and welcoming walk-in customers when space allows. Taking deposits can also help minimise no shows, freeing up tables for other bookings or walk-ins.

Our bar EPOS includes a built in booking system, so you can take and manage bookings and handle deposits all in the same system.


Simplified menus


A good rule is to keep it very simple when serving customers outside. A menu tailored to a streamlined alfresco offer, such as bottled beers, simple cocktails and snack-style food, will enable staff to keep service flowing, as well allowing tables to be cleared quickly ready for the next customers. Keeping the kitchen open with reduced trading space carries costs, so focus on dishes that can be simply and quickly prepared, and deliver good margins, as well as menus that can be easily and quickly updated.


EPOS in use in beer garden


Mobile ordering


Distance is often the enemy when it comes to outdoor service – it can simply take staff longer to get around all the tables, as well as to cover the ground between the bar or kitchen and the outdoor trading area. This can be frustrating for customers, as well as costing the business valuable income. Mobile ordering enables customers to place their order from the table when they’re ready, freeing staff to focus on preparation and serving rather than notching up their step count. 


Outside bars


If the customer can’t come to the bar, take the bar to the customer. An outside bar area doesn’t have to break the bank, with plenty of mobile equipment options out there. With table service likely to be a requirement when businesses reopen, an outside bar acts as a service station close to the trading area, and has the potential to add a new, outdoor revenue stream to the business when restrictions are lifted.   


Robust WiFi


A weak WiFi signal can easily be the undoing of the best laid plans. Check that you have a strong signal connecting all outdoor areas to the EPOS, and add boosters if needed. If WiFi coverage is a challenge, consider portable EPOS devices that can work off a 4G signal, ensuring that there’s no interruption to ordering and payment. 

 

Plan for the weather


It would be very optimistic to assume that the British weather will always co-operate, so look at the options for umbrellas, gazebos and marquees. Brewers and drink brand owners will often supply these, so make some calls. 

While not every business has outdoor space, those pubs and bars that are able to bring customers back first when outdoor trading is permitted will be blazing a trail for the whole industry as well as boosting their own bottom line.


If you need help getting set up with the portable EPOS, bookings, or mobile ordering get in touch.

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