Why Foodservice and Hospitality Businesses Need Permanent Solutions for Wobbly Tables
In the world of foodservice and hospitality, attention to detail can make or break a customer experiences. One often overlooked detail is the stability of tables. Wobbly tables are more than just a minor inconvenience; they can significantly impact customer satisfaction, staff productivity, the overall perception of a business and create hygiene issues if staff are constantly adjusting screw-in feet underneath dirty tables. For customers, being seated at a wobbly table can feel disrespectful and ruin the experience. ‘Do you not care that I am sat here?’ ‘Why hasn’t anybody noticed?’ ‘What do they expect me to do about it?’ ‘Why should I spend my money here if they’re not willing to provide a table that doesn’t wobble?’ ‘I’m not happy now, what else is wrong with this place?’ are a few common thoughts often running through the minds of disgruntled customers. Then, cue the waiter with a napkin – an unsightly, botched fix! Relying on temporary fixes such as sugar packets, napkins and other props is not only ineffective but also detrimental to your brand.
Temporary Fixes Are Ineffective and Unprofessional
Using makeshift solutions like folded napkins or sugar packets to stabilise tables sends a clear message to customers: the business is unprepared and unprofessional. These quick fixes are not reliable and often need to be readjusted multiple times, leading to increasingly frustrated and sceptical customers (I mean, what else is being botched??). More importantly, they detract from the dining experience, causing spills and discomfort that can quickly turn a pleasant meal into a negative experience.
The Impact on Business Reputation
In a highly competitive industry, maintaining a strong reputation is crucial. Wobbly tables can lead to negative reviews and word-of-mouth complaints, tarnishing the image of the establishment. Customers expect a seamless dining experience, and instability can overshadow even the best food and service. A single bad experience can lead to lost customers and tips and a damaged reputation that can be difficult to repair.
Efficiency and Productivity
For staff, dealing with wobbly tables is an unnecessary distraction. Waitstaff should focus on providing excellent service, not repeatedly fixing wobbly tables. This inefficiency can slow down service, leading to longer wait times and decreased customer satisfaction. Additionally, the constant need for adjustments can increase wear and tear on the table and create potential cross contamination issues from staff needing to manually adjust dirty screw-in feet.
The Permanent Solutions: FLAT® Table Bases and FLAT® Equalizers
Investing in permanent solutions such as FLAT Table Bases or FLAT Equalizers (for stabilising existing tables) is a smart move for any foodservice or hospitality business. These innovative products provide reliable stability, ensuring that tables remain stable on uneven surfaces. FLAT technologies not only improve the dining experience for customers but also enhance operational efficiency.
FLAT Table Bases and Equalizers are designed to adapt to uneven surfaces, eliminating the need for makeshift solutions. This not only enhances the dining experience but also boosts the overall aesthetic of the establishment. A stable table setting reflects attention to detail and commitment to quality, reinforcing the business’s reputation for excellence.
Conclusion
In the competitive world of foodservice and hospitality, every detail counts. Wobbly tables are more than a minor inconvenience; they can significantly impact customer satisfaction, brand reputation, operational efficiency and hygiene practices. By investing in permanent solutions like FLAT Table Bases and FLAT Equalizers, businesses can ensure a consistently excellent dining experience, fostering positive reviews and repeat customers.
We’re always thrilled to see the reaction of operators at trade events or at their premises, when they see how easily the problem of wobbly and misaligned tables is solved with FLAT.
So, say goodbye to sugar packets and napkins, and embrace a professional, reliable solution that benefits both your customers and your business.
Contact us to find out more or locate your nearest FLAT Dealer here.
