Ruud Jansen Venneboer’s Post

Expectation Management With the 2024 tourist season now well and truly kicked off, we're also hearing about people's experiences. As always, these are generally very positive, with even the buckets of rain we've seen this Spring so far not really dampening (pun intended!) spirits. One interesting personal observation however concerns the food and drink offering some people are experiencing. Again, mostly positive, but more than in other years, I'm sensing some levels of dissatisfaction: (eratic) opening times, menu availability, kitchen opening times, service levels, that sort of thing. Admittedly, this does not come as a huge surprise, since we are customers of this sector ourselves too. What I try and explain in response to these comments is that, even more than in tourism in general, the pub and restaurant trade is going through a particularly tough time. Lots of reasons, but summarised in one sentence: higher costs in combination with a (generally) lower turnover = perfect storm. And personally I don't think we have yet seen the worse. Is any of this an excuse for bad service etc.? No of course it isn't. But (I'm sure you saw a 'but' coming) ... like it or not, the combination of significantly increased costs combined with lower income DOES impact on the operational management of business. Any business! So please try and be understanding and patient. If service takes a little longer, when some menu items may not be available, if they brought you a small dish of ketchup instead of the mayonaise you asked for: don't let it spoil your night. They are (mostly) really trying! And before posting a review on any of the available channels, please PLEASE give the place concerned the benefit of your feedback, and allow them to respond. If they fail that too, you can still post! Our industry will thank you. And we promise that the current challenges won't be with us forever. Well, we hope not.... #hospitality #southwestengland #devon #foodanddrink #feedback #costoflivingcrisis

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Louise Cusack

Business Development & Membership Manager at Visit South Devon & Discover Dartmouth

8mo

Well said Ruud!

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