Keeping up with the latest technologies has become essential for restaurant success. Over the past few years, restaurants of all sizes have been investing heavily in various tech solutions to improve operations, enhance customer experiences, and gain a competitive edge. However, as the tech landscape evolves, many restaurants are now facing a dilemma: Is their brand too stacked with technology? In this blog, we will explore the challenges of managing a complex tech stack and discuss the growing trend of simplifying restaurant tech ecosystems.

The restaurant industry has witnessed a tech revolution, with a multitude of platforms and applications available to address different aspects of the business. From supply chain management technology to back office automation, the list of tech solutions can be overwhelming. Initially, adopting these technologies promised efficiency gains, improved customer service, and better data insights. However, as restaurants continue to add more tools to their tech stacks, they often encounter several challenges:

Management Complexity: Each new addition to the tech stack requires time and effort to integrate, maintain, and train staff. Managing multiple platforms can lead to inefficiencies and increased operational costs.

Data Fragmentation: Different systems may not communicate seamlessly, leading to fragmented data and hindering the ability to gain comprehensive insights into restaurant performance.

Financial Drain: Subscription fees, maintenance costs, and upgrades for each platform can quickly add up, impacting the bottom line.

Overwhelmed Staff: Staff members can become overwhelmed by the sheer number of systems they need to navigate, which can result in reduced productivity and job satisfaction.

In response to these challenges, a growing number of restaurants are reevaluating their tech stacks and opting for a more streamlined approach. This trend involves seeking “one-stop-shop” solutions that consolidate various functions into a single platform. The benefits of this approach are numerous:

1. Simplified Management: With a unified platform, restaurants can reduce the complexity of their tech ecosystems, making it easier to manage and maintain.
2. Data Integration: Consolidated systems enable seamless data integration, providing a holistic view of restaurant operations and customer interactions.
3. Cost Savings: Eliminating redundant subscriptions and reducing the need for IT support can result in significant cost savings.
4. Enhanced Efficiency: Staff can become more proficient as they work with a single, user-friendly platform, leading to improved operational efficiency.
5. Scalability: Many one-stop shop solutions are designed to scale with the business, accommodating growth without the need for constant system upgrades and additions.

While the idea of simplifying your restaurant’s tech ecosystem may sound appealing, it’s essential to choose the right one-stop-shop solution. Consider the following factors:

1. Compatibility: Ensure the chosen platform aligns with your specific restaurant needs, from front-of-house to back-of-house operations.
2. Scalability: Look for a solution that can grow with your business and adapt to changing requirements.
3. Expert Customer Support: Assess the quality of customer support and training offered by the platform provider.
4. Cost Analysis: Conduct a thorough cost analysis to compare the expenses associated with your current tech stack against the proposed one-stop shop solution.

Partnering with Consolidated Concepts plays a crucial role in helping you simplify your tech stack across all your locations in several ways:

Cost Reduction

One of the primary advantages of working with Consolidated Concepts is the potential for cost savings. Through their collective purchasing power and negotiation capabilities, they can help franchisees secure better deals with suppliers. This cost reduction can free up financial resources that can be redirected towards streamlining the tech stack or investing in more critical areas of the business.

Streamlined Procurement

Consolidated Concepts offers a centralized procurement platform that simplifies the purchasing process. Multi-unit franchisees can access a wide range of products and services through a single platform, reducing the complexity of managing multiple procurement systems and processes.

Technology Solutions

Our technology solutions assist franchisees in identifying streamlined processes that integrate well with your procurement process. This integration can help franchisees streamline inventory management, menu optimization, and data analytics, reducing the need for multiple, disjointed tech tools.

Expert Guidance

At Consolidated Concepts, our industry experts understand the unique challenges faced by multi-unit franchisees. A team of foodservice experts provide valuable insights and recommendations on optimizing your tech stack. Our knowledge of the restaurant industry’s best practices can help franchisees make informed decisions about which technologies to implement and how to integrate them effectively.

Vendor Management

Beyond procurement, Consolidated Concepts can assist in vendor management. They can help franchisees assess the performance of their tech vendors and ensure they are meeting their needs. This includes evaluating contracts, service levels, and identifying opportunities for improvement or cost savings.

Scalability

As multi-unit franchisees expand, they need scalable solutions that can grow with their business. Consolidated Concepts can help identify tech solutions that are not only suitable for the current business size but can also adapt to accommodate future growth without causing tech stack complications.

By leveraging the resources and expertise of Consolidated Concepts, franchisees can focus on their core operations while optimizing their technology infrastructure for greater efficiency and profitability.

In a world where technology is constantly evolving, it’s crucial for restaurants to strike the right balance between innovation and complexity. While having a variety of tech tools can be beneficial, it’s equally important to avoid becoming overwhelmed by a stacked tech ecosystem. The trend towards simplifying restaurant tech ecosystems through one-stop shop solutions reflects the need for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and streamlined operations. As you consider the future of your restaurant’s technology, remember that less can often be more, leading to a more sustainable and profitable business in the long run.

Become a member of Consolidated Concepts today by filling out the form below!

Multi-unit restaurant operators face the continual challenge of balancing the delicate equation between providing top-notch dining experiences and maintaining healthy profit margins. One critical aspect that directly impacts a restaurant’s financial health is spend management, where understanding the distinctions between direct and indirect spend plays a pivotal role.

While the terms “direct” and “indirect” might sound straightforward, their application within the context of foodservice procurement can be multifaceted and nuanced. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of these differences, operators can make informed decisions, optimize resource allocation, and pave the way for sustainable growth and success in this dynamic industry.

What is Direct Spend?

Direct spend refers to the procurement of goods and services that are directly involved in the production and preparation of food and beverages for a restaurant or food establishment. These are the expenses incurred on items that are essential for the core operations of the business.

Examples of Common Direct Spend Categories:

Food ingredients: This includes all the raw materials and ingredients used in cooking and preparing dishes, such as vegetables, meat, seafood, spices, and other essential food items.

Beverages: The cost of purchasing beverages, such as soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, coffee, and tea, falls under direct spend.

Kitchen equipment and utensils: Expenses related to acquiring and maintaining kitchen equipment like ovens, stoves, refrigerators, knives, and other utensils are considered direct spend.

Packaging and disposables: Costs associated with containers, takeout boxes, napkins, and other disposables used to serve food directly to customers.

Cleaning supplies: The expenditure on cleaning products and hygiene essentials for maintaining kitchen and dining areas.

Direct spend is a crucial aspect of foodservice operations and managing it efficiently can contribute to cost control and ultimately impact the profitability and success of a restaurant or foodservice establishment.

What is Indirect Spend?

Indirect Spend refers to the procurement of goods and services that are not directly involved in the production and preparation of food and beverages but are essential for the overall functioning and support of the restaurant or food establishment. These are the expenses incurred on items that are necessary for the smooth running of the business but are not directly related to the core operations.

Examples of Common Indirect Spend Categories:

Facility maintenance: Expenses related to maintaining the physical infrastructure of the restaurant, such as repairs, renovations, and upkeep of the building and equipment.

Cleaning and janitorial services: The cost of outsourcing cleaning services for the restaurant premises, including regular cleaning and deep cleaning.

Office supplies: Expenditure on items like paper, pens, printer ink, and other office essentials used for administrative purposes.

Marketing and advertising: Costs associated with promoting the restaurant, including advertising campaigns, social media marketing, and promotional materials.

Staff training and development: Expenses related to training programs, workshops, and educational materials for employees to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Utilities: The costs of utilities like electricity, water, gas, and internet services required to run the restaurant.

Insurance: Payments made for various types of insurance coverage, such as property insurance, liability insurance, and worker’s compensation insurance.

Indirect spend, while not directly impacting the food preparation, plays a vital role in the overall efficiency and success of the foodservice business. Proper management of indirect spend can contribute to cost savings and improve the overall performance of the restaurant.

What is the difference between Direct and Indirect Spend?

How do I manage my direct and indirect spend?

Managing direct and indirect spend for multiple locations as a multi-unit restaurant operator requires careful planning, coordination, and a centralized approach to procurement. Here are some strategies to effectively manage direct and indirect spend across multiple restaurant locations:

Leverage Technology and E-Procurement: Implement e-procurement systems and technology to streamline the purchasing process. E-procurement can centralize supplier databases, automate purchase orders, and facilitate electronic invoices, making it easier to manage spend efficiently.

Centralized Procurement: Establish a centralized procurement team or department responsible for managing purchasing decisions for all locations. Centralizing purchasing allows for better coordination, leverage in negotiations, and streamlined processes.

Standardized Supplier Agreements: Negotiate standardized supplier agreements that cover all locations. This approach helps in securing consistent pricing, terms, and conditions, reducing the risk of variation in spend across different locations.

Implement Spend Analysis and Reporting: Utilize spend analysis and reporting tools to track and analyze spending across all locations. This data-driven approach enables you to identify spending patterns, areas of potential cost savings, and opportunities for consolidation.

Supplier Consolidation: Whenever possible, consolidate suppliers across multiple locations to negotiate better pricing and terms. By sourcing from a smaller number of trusted suppliers, you can achieve economies of scale and reduce administrative overhead.

Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs): Consider joining a Group Purchasing Organization to pool purchasing power with other restaurant operators. GPOs negotiate contracts with suppliers on behalf of their members, enabling access to better pricing and deals.

Regular Reviews and Audits: Conduct regular reviews and audits of spending to ensure compliance with procurement policies and identify any discrepancies or areas for improvement.

Implement Budget Controls: Set clear spending budgets for each location and monitor adherence to those budgets closely. Implement approval processes for purchases exceeding a certain threshold to maintain financial discipline.

Training and Communication: Train and communicate with restaurant managers and staff about spend management policies, cost-saving initiatives, and the importance of adhering to centralized procurement guidelines.

Share Best Practices: Facilitate communication and collaboration between restaurant managers across different locations. Share best practices and successful cost-saving strategies to foster continuous improvement.

Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: Emphasize sustainable and ethical sourcing practices across all locations to align with consumers’ increasing demand for environmentally conscious businesses.

Stay Updated on Market Trends: Stay informed about market trends, pricing fluctuations, and emerging technologies that can further optimize your spend management across multiple locations.

By implementing these strategies and maintaining a centralized approach, multi-unit restaurant operators can effectively manage direct and indirect spend, optimize costs, maintain consistent quality, and drive sustainable growth across their restaurant locations.

By becoming a member of Consolidated Concepts, you can empower your staff to enhance their procurement process, improve cost efficiency, and focus on providing exceptional dining experiences across all locations.

With access to our trusted network of suppliers, restaurant operators can navigate the complexities of direct and indirect spend more effectively and achieve sustainable growth in a competitive industry. As a Group Purchasing Organization (GPO), we wield the collective buying power of multiple restaurants, unlocking exclusive savings on all your supplies, from fresh ingredients to essential services. Say goodbye to procurement headaches and embrace our centralized approach, ensuring consistency, accountability, and data-driven insights that’ll keep your business thriving.

Are you effectively managing the culinary maze that is the foodservice supply chain?

As the restaurant industry rides the waves of relentless evolution, staying afloat and thriving demands more than just culinary expertise and exceptional service. In this fast-paced and fiercely competitive landscape, the mastery of cutting-edge supply chain management strategies has become the secret ingredient for multi-unit restaurant operators looking to gain an edge over the competition.

Successful restaurant operators must skillfully manage their supply chain to ensure that the freshest ingredients, top-quality products, and essential resources reach each restaurant location precisely when needed. But in today’s data-driven landscape, relying on intuition alone is no longer enough. Smart operators know that embracing innovation and technology is the compass that points towards supply chain success.

What is restaurant supply chain management?

Restaurant supply chain management refers to the systematic and strategic coordination of all activities involved in sourcing, procuring, producing, and delivering goods and services required to operate a restaurant successfully. It encompasses the entire process of managing the flow of materials, products, and information from suppliers to the restaurant’s final customers.

The goal of restaurant supply chain management is to ensure a seamless and efficient flow of goods while minimizing costs, reducing waste, and maintaining the highest quality standards. It involves various critical aspects, including:

1. Sourcing and Procurement: Identifying reliable suppliers, negotiating contracts, and procuring the necessary ingredients, equipment, and other resources needed for restaurant operations.
2. Inventory Management: Monitoring and controlling inventory levels to prevent stockouts and reduce excess inventory, optimizing storage space and minimizing costs.
3. Logistics and Distribution: Efficiently transporting goods from suppliers to individual restaurant locations, optimizing delivery routes, and ensuring timely deliveries.
4. Quality Control: Establishing rigorous quality standards and implementing processes to ensure that all incoming goods meet the required quality and safety criteria.
5. Demand Forecasting: Analyzing historical data and market trends to predict customer demand accurately, helping avoid stockouts or overstocking.
6. Cost Management: Finding cost-effective solutions without compromising quality, including optimizing sourcing, transportation, and storage expenses.
7. Sustainability and Eco-conscious Practices: Incorporating environmentally friendly practices, such as sourcing locally, reducing packaging waste, and supporting sustainable agriculture.
8. Technology Integration: Adopting innovative technologies, such as supply chain management software and data analytics tools, to streamline processes and gain real-time insights.
9. Crisis and Risk Management: Develop contingency plans to address potential disruptions in the supply chain, such as natural disasters, supplier issues, or economic fluctuations.

Effective restaurant supply chain management is essential for multi-unit restaurant operators, as it ensures consistency across different locations, enhances customer satisfaction, and boosts profitability. By optimizing the supply chain, restaurant owners can focus on their core business activities, ultimately leading to increased operational efficiency and long-term success.

10 Restaurant Supply Chain Management Best Practices

Implementing effective strategies for restaurant supply chain management can significantly enhance operational efficiency and contribute to the overall success of the business. Break the chains of conventional thinking and embrace the power of smart supply chain management with these 10 key strategies:

1. Data-Driven Decision-Making: Gone are the days of traditional, gut-feel-based decision-making. Leverage data analytics and technology to gain insights into customer demand, inventory levels, and supplier performance. Analyzing historical data and trends can help with accurate demand forecasting and inventory optimization, reducing wastage and ensuring sufficient stock availability.
2. Supplier Relationship Management: Cultivate strong relationships with reliable suppliers who can consistently provide quality products at competitive prices. Negotiate favorable terms and establish open communication channels to address any potential issues promptly.
3. Centralized Procurement: Centralize procurement functions to streamline purchasing decisions and take advantage of economies of scale. By consolidating purchasing across multiple locations, restaurants can negotiate better prices and reduce administrative costs.
4. Inventory Control and Just-in-Time (JIT) Approach: Implement JIT inventory management to minimize storage costs and prevent excess inventory. Keeping inventory levels lean while maintaining a well-coordinated supply chain ensures fresh and high-quality ingredients are readily available.
5. Technology Integration: Invest in supply chain management software and tools that offer real-time tracking, inventory management, and reporting capabilities. These technologies help automate processes, improve accuracy, and enable better decision-making.
6. Sustainability and Local Sourcing: Embrace sustainable practices and prioritize locally sourced ingredients. Customers increasingly value environmentally conscious restaurants, and sustainable sourcing can also reduce transportation costs and support local communities.
7. Risk Management and Contingency Planning: Develop contingency plans to address potential supply chain disruptions, such as natural disasters, transportation delays, or supplier issues. Having backup suppliers and alternative logistics options can help mitigate risks effectively.
8. Streamlined Logistics: Optimize transportation and distribution processes to minimize delivery times and costs. Consider partnering with logistics providers that specialize in the restaurant industry to ensure efficient and reliable deliveries.
9. Collaborative Communication: Foster clear and open communication between different stakeholders in the supply chain, including suppliers, distributors, and restaurant managers. Effective communication facilitates problem-solving and ensures everyone is aligned with the overall goals.
10. Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and assess supply chain performance to identify areas for improvement. Encourage feedback from employees and customers to stay agile and adapt to changing demands and preferences.

By adopting these strategies, restaurant owners and operators can create a well-organized, efficient, and resilient supply chain that delivers fresh, high-quality ingredients to their establishments consistently. A well-managed supply chain not only reduces operational costs but also enhances customer satisfaction and contributes to the overall success and growth of the restaurant business.

It’s evident that the power of data, technology, and innovation is reshaping the restaurant supply chain. The complexities of sourcing, logistics, and inventory management demand a data-driven and technology-enabled approach to ensure efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customer satisfaction.

Embracing these strategies equips restaurant operators with the tools needed to navigate any future challenges that lie ahead, safeguarding their business against disruptions and enhancing their ability to deliver consistent excellence.

With a serious commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, the path to success in restaurant supply chain management becomes clearer, guiding them towards a future of sustainable growth and triumph.

Restaurant indirect spend savings refer to the cost reductions or savings achieved in the procurement and management of indirect expenses within a restaurant operation. Indirect spend in the restaurant industry typically includes various non-food and non-beverage-related items and services that are necessary for the smooth operation of the establishment.

Examples of restaurant indirect spend categories include:

• Kitchen Supplies: Utensils, cookware, cleaning supplies, kitchen equipment, and appliances.
• Tableware and Dining Supplies: Plates, glasses, cutlery, napkins, tablecloths, and other dining accessories.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Cleaning products, equipment maintenance services, pest control, and waste management.
• Restaurant Supplies: Menu printing, packaging materials, uniforms, signage, and promotional materials.
• Utilities: Electricity, gas, water, and other utility services.
• Technology and IT Services: POS systems, software licenses, hardware maintenance, and IT support.
• Marketing and Advertising: Advertising campaigns, online marketing, social media promotions, and printed materials.
• Insurance and Legal Services: Liability insurance, legal consultations, permits, and licenses.

Managing indirect spend savings is a crucial aspect of operational efficiency and profitability for multi-unit restaurant brands. With the right technology solutions, operators can streamline procurement processes, optimize supplier relationships, and drive cost savings across their operations. Let’s explore various ways in which technology can empower multi-unit restaurant brands to effectively manage their indirect spend savings, enhance data visibility, and achieve greater efficiency.

E-Procurement Platforms: Centralized Purchasing Made Easy

Implementing e-procurement platforms provides multi-unit restaurant brands with a centralized approach to purchasing. These platforms offer online catalogs, automated ordering, and electronic approval workflows, reducing manual efforts and improving efficiency. With a centralized system, restaurant brands can consolidate purchasing activities, standardize procurement procedures, and negotiate better pricing and terms with suppliers. E-procurement platforms also enable better visibility into spending patterns and provide valuable insights for cost reduction opportunities.

Harnessing the Power of Spend Analysis Tools

Spend analysis tools play a crucial role in managing indirect spend savings. By gathering and analyzing data from multiple units, these tools provide actionable insights into spending patterns, supplier performance, and potential areas for consolidation or cost reduction. With accurate and comprehensive spend analysis, multi-unit restaurant brands can identify high-performing suppliers, negotiate favorable contracts, and streamline their procurement strategies.

Efficient Supplier Management Systems

Supplier management systems enable multi-unit restaurant brands to maintain an organized database of suppliers, track supplier performance, and ensure compliance across all units. These systems help in managing contracts, monitoring supplier relationships, and identifying opportunities for better pricing and terms. With improved supplier management, restaurant brands can build stronger partnerships, negotiate more effectively, and consolidate their purchasing power to achieve significant cost savings.

Streamlined Inventory Management with Technology

Effective inventory management software is crucial for optimizing indirect spend savings. Technology solutions, such as inventory management software, enable multi-unit restaurant brands to track and control indirect spend items. By automating inventory processes, these tools help reduce waste, prevent stockouts or overstocking, and ensure that the right items are available at the right time. Accurate inventory data also facilitates demand forecasting, allowing for proactive purchasing decisions and cost savings through efficient inventory management.

Digital Transformation of Invoicing and Expense Management

Digital invoicing and expense management systems streamline the accounts payable process for multi-unit restaurant brands. By automating invoice processing and expense tracking, these systems improve accuracy, reduce paperwork, and provide real-time visibility into spending across all units. Digital transformation of these processes minimizes manual errors, expedites approval workflows, and enhances cost control measures. Furthermore, it enables businesses to analyze spending patterns, identify cost-saving opportunities, and make informed decisions to optimize indirect spend savings.

Empowering Unit Managers with Mobile Apps

Mobile apps or platforms designed for unit managers and staff simplify the ordering process for indirect spend items. These apps allow managers to conveniently place orders, monitor budgets, and track deliveries using their mobile devices. By leveraging mobile technology, multi-unit restaurant brands empower their managers to make efficient purchasing decisions, reducing administrative burdens and improving overall procurement workflow. This real-time connectivity ensures faster response times, enhances communication between units and suppliers, and contributes to significant time and cost savings.

Unleashing Data Analytics and Reporting

Data analytics tools provide multi-unit restaurant brands with valuable insights into spending trends, supplier performance, and key performance indicators (KPIs) related to indirect spend savings. By generating reports and dashboards, these tools enable businesses to track progress, monitor cost reduction initiatives, and make data-driven decisions. With access to real-time and actionable information, restaurant brands can continuously refine their procurement strategies, identify areas for improvement, and optimize their indirect spend management for maximum savings.

Integration with Point-of-Sale

Integrating procurement technology with point-of-sale (POS) systems enables multi-unit restaurant brands to capture real-time sales data. This integration facilitates demand forecasting and ensures that indirect spend items are ordered at the right time, preventing excess inventory or stock shortages. By aligning purchasing decisions with sales data, restaurant brands can optimize inventory levels, reduce waste, and achieve significant cost savings. The seamless flow of information between POS systems and procurement technology enhances operational efficiency and supports data-driven decision-making for indirect spend management.

Continuous Improvement through Feedback and Adaptation

Technology solutions in indirect spend management should be flexible and adaptable to evolving business needs. Multi-unit restaurant brands should actively seek feedback from unit managers and staff regarding the effectiveness of technology systems, supplier performance, and usability. This feedback loop allows for continuous improvement, refinement of processes, and identification of new opportunities for cost savings. By listening to the needs of their teams and staying receptive to technological advancements, restaurant brands can stay ahead of the curve and ensure their indirect spend management remains efficient and optimized.

Managing indirect spend savings in a multi-unit restaurant brand requires a comprehensive approach that harnesses the power of technology solutions. E-procurement platforms, spend analysis tools, supplier management systems, and other technology solutions enable centralized procurement, streamline processes, and enhance data visibility. By integrating technology into their operations, multi-unit restaurant brands can optimize indirect spend savings, drive cost reductions, improve operational efficiency, and enhance overall profitability.

Embracing technology as a strategic enabler empowers restaurant brands to stay competitive in a dynamic and evolving industry while delivering exceptional dining experiences to their customers.

In the highly competitive landscape of the restaurant industry, success hinges not only on exceptional food and service but also on effective contract management.

Multi-unit restaurant operators face unique challenges in managing numerous contracts with suppliers, vendors, landlords, and other stakeholders across their expanding network.

It is within this context that the power of custom contracts emerges as a vital tool for driving operational efficiency, mitigating risks, and maximizing profitability.

By adopting a strategic approach to contract management and leveraging technology, operators can unlock substantial advantages and gain a competitive edge in an industry where every detail counts.

The Power of Custom Contracts for Multi-Unit Operators

As a multi-unit operator, custom contracts in conjunction with being a Consolidated Concepts member offers several advantages.

Here are some of the benefits of custom contracts:

Tailored Pricing and Cost Savings

Custom contracts allow multi-unit operators to negotiate pricing and terms specific to their unique needs and purchasing volumes.

By leveraging the expertise and purchasing power of Consolidated Concepts, operators can secure competitive pricing and maximize cost savings across their restaurant locations.

Vendor Selection and Management

Custom contracts enable multi-unit operators to choose preferred vendors that align with their specific requirements and quality standards.

Consolidated Concepts assists in vetting vendors and negotiating contracts that meet the desired specifications of the operators.

This ensures consistent product quality and streamlines vendor management across all locations.

Flexibility and Customization

Custom contracts provide multi-unit operators with the flexibility to tailor contract terms. This includes delivery schedules, payment terms, product specifications, and service-level agreements.

This customization allows operators to align contracts with their operational needs, ensuring efficient and seamless supply chain management.

Streamline Procurement Processes

Consolidated Concepts and custom contracts simplify the procurement process for multi-unit operators.

Operators can access a wide range of pre-vetted vendors and products through a centralized platform.

This streamlines purchasing, eliminates the need for individual negotiations, and reduces administrative burdens associated with managing multiple contracts.

Improved Consistency and Standardization

Custom contracts help achieve consistency and standardization across all restaurant locations.

By establishing uniform terms and conditions, operators can ensure that products, pricing, and service levels are consistent across their entire portfolio.

This enhances brand consistency and customer experience.

Expert Support and Negotiation

Consolidated Concepts provides expert support in contract negotiation, leveraging their industry knowledge and supplier relationships.

Our team can guide multi-unit operators through the negotiation process. This helps secure favorable terms and resolves any contract-related issues that may arise.

Data Analytics and Reporting

Custom contracts, coupled with our technology, offers multi-unit operators access to data analytics and reporting capabilities.

Operators can gain insights into purchasing patterns, product performance, and cost-saving opportunities.

This data-driven approach facilitates informed decision-making and allows for ongoing optimization of procurement strategies.

Tailor Success with Consolidated Concepts

As we mentioned above, custom contracts for multi-unit operators like you offer tailored pricing, vendor selection, flexibility, streamlined procurement processes, improved consistency, expert support, and data-driven insights.

These advantages contribute to cost savings, operational efficiency, vendor management, and overall success in the foodservice industry.

Become a member of Consolidated Concepts today.

Behind every delicious meal served at your favorite restaurant lies a hidden force driving the culinary experience: foodservice data. This often-overlooked treasure trove of information holds the key to unlocking the true potential of the restaurant industry.

From optimizing costs and streamlining supply chains to fueling innovation and ensuring compliance, foodservice data has emerged as a game-changer in the way operators source, prepare, and savor our meals.

The immense power harnessed within foodservice data is reshaping the landscape of the culinary world and plays a powerful role in your day to day operations, especially when you’re managing multiple unit locations.

There are many ways you can unleash the power of data, especially with the help of Consolidated Concepts.

Here’s how you can put your data to work to help drive growth, enhance operational efficiency, and deliver exceptional dining experiences for your customers:

By implementing systems to collect and integrate data from various sources such as point of sale (POS) systems, inventory management systems, customer feedback platforms, and employee scheduling tools, you can have a comprehensive and accurate dataset to work with.

As a Consolidated Concepts member, we’ll take care of that for you!

Consolidated Concepts utilizes data analytics tools and software to analyze and visualize the collected data. We look for patterns, trends, and insights that can provide valuable information about customer preferences, operational efficiencies, menu performance, employee productivity, and more.

This step allows you to gain a deeper understanding of your business’s strengths and areas for improvement.

You can use the data to track and measure the performance of each unit within your multi-unit operation. Establish benchmarks and key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the success of individual units and identify top-performing locations.

This information will help you identify best practices, optimize operations, and drive overall profitability.

Leverage foodservice data to optimize your menu offerings! You can identify which items are popular among customers and which ones are underperforming.

Use this insight to make informed decisions about menu changes, specials, promotions, and even personalized recommendations based on customer preferences.

Analyze data related to operational metrics such as food costs, labor costs, and waste management. Identify areas where costs can be reduced without compromising quality or customer satisfaction.

For example, data may reveal opportunities to streamline procurement processes, adjust staffing levels, or implement more efficient kitchen workflows.

Utilize customer data to personalize and enhance the dining experience. Analyze customer feedback, reviews, and loyalty program data to understand their preferences, habits, and satisfaction levels.

This information can help you tailor marketing campaigns, create targeted promotions, and improve overall customer engagement.

Harness the power of predictive analytics to anticipate future trends and customer demands. By analyzing historical data, you can forecast demand patterns, optimize inventory levels, and proactively plan for seasonal variations or special events.

This proactive approach enables you to make data-driven decisions and minimize waste or shortages.

Remember, unleashing the power of foodservice data requires a commitment to data-driven decision-making. Regularly review and update your data analysis processes to ensure you stay agile and responsive to changing market dynamics.

By harnessing the insights derived from foodservice data, multi-unit operators can drive growth, enhance operational efficiency, and ultimately, deliver exceptional dining experiences to their customers.

Join Consolidated Concepts today to unleash the power of foodservice data!

Foodservice savings refer to cost reductions or financial benefits achieved within the foodservice industry. This term encompasses various strategies, practices, and initiatives implemented by businesses in the foodservice sector to minimize expenses while maintaining or improving the quality of their products and services.

The goal of foodservice savings is to increase profitability and efficiency by identifying opportunities to save money in areas such as procurement, operations, and waste reduction. They offer flexibility and adaptability, empowering businesses to allocate resources strategically, respond to market changes, and explore new ventures.

Here are some common areas where foodservice savings can be realized:

1. Procurement: Negotiate better prices with suppliers, establishing contracts, bulk purchasing, and sourcing ingredients from local or sustainable suppliers can result in cost savings.
2. Menu Engineering: Analyze the profitability and popularity of menu items to optimize pricing, portion sizes, and ingredient usage. This ensures that high-cost items are balanced by more profitable options and reduces waste.
3. Inventory Management: Implement efficient inventory control systems, accurately forecasting demand, reducing overstocking and food spoilage, and minimizing storage costs.
4. Operational Efficiency: Streamline kitchen operations, optimizing staff scheduling, minimizing energy consumption, and utilizing technology or automation to improve productivity and reduce labor costs.
5. Waste Reduction: Implement waste management strategies such as composting, recycling, and food donation programs to minimize food waste, which directly reduces costs associated with purchasing and disposal.
6. Training and Education: Provide staff with proper training on food handling, portion control, and efficient practices that can minimize food waste and ensure the optimal use of ingredients.
7. Equipment and Technology: Invest in energy-efficient equipment, using automated systems for inventory tracking and ordering, and leveraging technology to streamline processes, reducing manual labor and costs.

By focusing on these areas and implementing effective cost-saving measures, foodservice operators can enhance their financial performance, increase profitability, and remain competitive in the industry.

At Consolidated Concepts, we’re experts in helping multi-unit restaurant operators achieve foodservice savings through various strategies and solutions, such as:

Foodservice Savings Strategies and Solutions

• Group Purchasing: Consolidated Concepts leverages the collective purchasing power of multi-unit restaurants to negotiate better prices with suppliers. By joining their group purchasing program, restaurant operators can access cost savings on a wide range of food and beverage products, kitchen supplies, equipment, and services.
• Menu Analysis and Optimization: Consolidated Concepts offers menu engineering services, where they analyze the profitability and popularity of menu items. By identifying high-cost, low-margin items and suggesting alternatives or portion adjustments, they help optimize menus for increased profitability and reduced food costs.
• Supplier Management: The company assists restaurant operators in managing their supplier relationships. They conduct supplier audits, negotiate contracts, and provide ongoing support to ensure operators receive the best pricing and service from their suppliers.
• Data Analytics and Reporting: Consolidated Concepts provides advanced data analytics tools and reporting systems to help restaurant operators gain insights into their purchasing patterns, cost trends, and areas of potential savings. This information enables operators to make data-driven decisions and identify opportunities for cost reduction.
• Training and Education: The company offers training programs and educational resources to restaurant operators and their staff. These programs focus on best practices for food purchasing, inventory management, portion control, waste reduction, and other areas related to foodservice savings.
• Technology Solutions: Consolidated Concepts provides access to technology platforms and tools designed to streamline restaurant operations and enhance efficiency. These solutions include inventory management systems, automated ordering platforms, and cost control software, which can help operators optimize their processes and reduce expenses.

Leveraging foodservice savings is of paramount importance as they contribute to the financial stability, competitiveness, and growth potential of your foodservice businesses. They enable businesses to optimize costs, improve profitability, adapt to market changes, and reinvest in their operations.

By embracing foodservice savings, businesses can operate more efficiently, provide value to customers, and align with sustainability and social responsibility principles.

When a restaurant operator joins Consolidated Concepts, they benefit from years of industry expertise, purchasing power, and foodservice saving strategies to improve financial performance and increase profitability.

Rebates and deviations are a great way to help you save some of that hard-earned money, and when you own multiple units, they add up!

Making profits will always be a top priority for you as an operator, but it doesn’t hurt to take advantage of some easy savings, too.

We’re here to show you what rebates and deviations are and how you can take advantage of them as a Consolidated Concepts member.

What are rebates and deviations?

You as an operator earn rebates based off purchases you make with manufacturer products.

These rebates are paid out to you quarterly through marketing funds used by manufacturers as an incentive for increasing sales and building customer loyalty.

Deviations are the off-invoice savings on products you’re currently already buying for your restaurant.

When it comes to manufacturer rebates, our team of experts at Consolidated Concepts track and pay those back to you if the items you purchased are covered through a Consolidated Concepts contract.

As far as deviations go, the end goal will be to lower your spend so Consolidated Concepts will continuously make contract recommendations and give you insights into your spend based on your current data.

How do I take advantage of rebates and deviations?

First and foremost, you will need to become a member of Consolidated Concepts to take advantage of our rebates and deviations contracts!

Once you’re apart of the Consolidated Concepts team, we work with you to see what items you’re already purchasing will qualify for a rebate or deviation.

Based off your “proof of purchase” of manufacturer items you bought, we’ll provide a breakdown of your rebate check to you every quarter!

At Consolidated Concepts, we have contracts with over 350 manufacturers on 165,000+ line items that cover everything you need for your operation across all categories.

Join today and put extra dollars in your pocket!

The restaurant industry can be fiercely competitive, especially for multi-unit operators who must navigate the complexities of managing several locations simultaneously. One of the most critical factors in running a profitable multi-unit restaurant business is procurement, which involves sourcing and purchasing the necessary ingredients, supplies, and equipment for each location.

However, with so many moving parts, it can be challenging for multi-unit operators to optimize their procurement strategies and stay ahead of the game. One of the most significant challenges for multi-unit restaurant operators is achieving consistency across all locations. This is especially true when it comes to procurement, where variations in quality and availability can impact everything from menu offerings to customer satisfaction.

To overcome this challenge, it’s essential to establish a standardized procurement process that can be applied consistently across all locations. This includes identifying preferred vendors, negotiating favorable pricing, and streamlining ordering and delivery logistics.

You can’t do all of that manually. In order to get a consistent procurement process created, you need to leverage technology. Procurement technology has become a foodservice must-have to ensure your multi-unit locations are all sourcing the same high-quality ingredients and supplies in order to maintain consistent menu offerings and customer experience.

Some key procurement insights in foodservice include identifying preferred vendors, negotiating favorable pricing, streamlining the ordering process, having visibility into logistics, establishing standardized procurement processes, and monitoring procurement performance metrics. By leveraging these insights, foodservice operators can optimize their procurement strategies and ultimately drive success in their businesses.

A customer doesn’t want to have the world’s best Caesar salad one visit, and the worst Caesar salad the next. You want that customer to be equally satisfied with every visit – no matter the location.

At Consolidated Concepts, our industry leading foodservice technology can help you create the consistency your brand needs to maintain quality and service in every area at each of your locations. From data visualization you can leverage for better forecasting to detailed reporting of your spend in real-time, you can put your purchasing data to work for you.

Looking to elevate your restaurant’s success with consistency procurement strategies? Here are five reasons to partner with Consolidated Concepts:

Consolidated Concepts technology creates procurement consistency for multi-unit restaurant operators with a range of benefits, including streamlined procurement, centralized procurement, cost savings, performance metrics, and expertise. Optimize your procurement strategies and achieve greater success across all your locations by becoming a Consolidated Concepts member today!

Restaurant distribution agreements typically fall in the procurement and purchasing phase of the supply chain, which involves sourcing, ordering, and delivering goods from suppliers to the restaurant. By formalizing a distribution agreement with a reputable distributor, the restaurant can ensure reliable and consistent supply of high-quality ingredients, while also managing their costs and inventory levels.

The agreement may also involve ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the distributor’s performance, as well as periodic reviews and renegotiations to ensure that the terms remain competitive and aligned with the restaurant’s evolving needs and priorities.

A restaurant distribution agreement is a legal contract between a restaurant and a distributor that outlines the terms and conditions of the supply chain process. The agreement defines the products and services that the distributor will provide to the restaurant, as well as the pricing, payment, quality, and delivery standards that must be met. The agreement may also include provisions for warranties, liability, confidentiality, and dispute resolution. The purpose of a distribution agreement is to establish a clear understanding between the restaurant and distributor, mitigate risks, and ensure that the restaurant has a reliable and cost-effective supply chain to support its operations.

The products and services covered by a distribution agreement may vary depending on the needs and requirements of the restaurant. In general, the agreement will outline the types of food and beverage products that the distributor will supply, such as fresh produce, meat, dairy, and dry goods. It may also include services such as order processing, inventory management, and delivery. The agreement should specify the exact products and services covered, as well as any exclusions or limitations, to ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and obligations. Additionally, the agreement may outline the quality standards that the products must meet and the delivery schedules and procedures to ensure that the restaurant receives high-quality and timely deliveries of the products they need.

The pricing and payment terms of a distribution agreement are critical to the success of the restaurant’s supply chain management. The agreement should specify the pricing structure for the products and services, including any discounts, rebates, or volume-based incentives. The payment terms should also be clearly defined, including the payment method, due dates, and any penalties for late or non-payment. The agreement may also include provisions for price adjustments based on market conditions or changes in the cost of raw materials or transportation. The pricing and payment terms should be negotiated carefully to ensure that they are fair and reasonable for both parties and that they support the financial sustainability of the restaurant’s operations.

By partnering with third-party supply chain management experts such as Consolidated Concepts, multi-unit restaurant operators can leverage the industry expertise and resources the partnership provides. Outsourcing your restaurant distribution agreements to third-party experts offers several benefits for restaurant operators. Our experts have established relationships with multiple suppliers, can negotiate better prices and terms, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality products to the restaurant. We use advanced technology and data analytics to optimize supply chain performance, mitigate risks, and provide industry insights and best practices. Overall, outsourcing the distribution agreement to third-party experts can help restaurant operators reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance their overall competitiveness and profitability.

At Consolidated Concepts, we’ve been through it, know the pitfalls, and have the software advantages to make your contract management more efficient. Contact our experts for help with your distribution agreements and learn how you can streamline the entire contract management process!