The restaurant industry continues to be one of the strongest job creators in the economy, with industry job growth outpacing the overall economy for the 16th consecutive year in 2015. Eating and drinking places, the primary component of the restaurant industry accounting for three-fourths of the total restaurant and food service workforce, which added jobs at a 3.2 percent rate.
The quick service segment added jobs at a 3.4 percent rate in 2015, while the table service segment expanded payrolls at a 3.3 percent pace.
The end result is restaurants will add 300,000 jobs in 2016. That’s great news!
How do I sell this market? Here’s a few suggestions.
Start Small…whether it is quick service or table service everyone needs an apron. And Edwards has resized the pockets on their popular apron styles to now accommodate tablets of all sizes. An apron may be a small addition to a uniform program, but they are a mighty big accessory. Easy to decorate and one size fits all. Now that’s a win-win.
Cater to Catering…small catering businesses are everywhere and how they present their dishes is half the equation. A stylish server shirt (1302), black chefpants (2002) and apron will build their brand and make them stand out to their customer. And these styles are comfortable, durable and work well from the kitchen to catering truck to their customers table. Styles are alpha sized making them easy to order and decorate. Now you’re cooking.
Step into Table Service…this may be a big step as each restaurant may have 20+ team members to outfit. This is where you separate the chef’s and the kitchen staff from the waitstaff and hostess. This takes a bit more thought but I know you are up to the challenge. This requires staff knowing their size or you taking measurements. It’s not hard, and Edwards can help with fit lines and plenty of suggestions. Here’s a few below that are my favorites.
Chef’s/Kitchen
- Classic chef coat (3308) and chef pants (2002)
- Cooks work best with mesh back coats (3331 or 3333) and chef pants (2000)
Bar Tender/Hostess
- Batiste shirts and blouses (1292/5292), black hospitality pants (2550/8550) and vest (4550/7551)
Waitstaff
- Button-down shirts (1077/5077), neckwear (NT00/SC54) and apron (9007)
You are on your way to taking a piece of the restaurant pie! Good luck.
For more ideas on image apparel for the restaurant industry visit our website: www.edwardsgarment.com. Browse through our Hospitality Look Book for ideas on collections.