Almond Family Pubs is using a GS EPOS solution to improve the way it operates and provides a far better customer experience at its carvery pubs.
GS Systems has recently installed a new EPOS solution at the Hesketh Tavern in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire and will be following this up with installations at the Three Bears in Hazel Grove and the Fletchers Arms in Denton.
“What attracted us to this system was the capability to use it across multi-sites. Our managers are cross-trained so they can do the kitchen, bar and cellar and we can move them between pubs as the operations are very similar, The only problem was having to learn different EPOS solutions. That will be solved now we’re investing in GS,” said James Almond, who owns the chain with father Doug and sister Vicki.
“Back of house, we’ll have access to consistent and comparable data, which will help with our decision making and controlling costs.”
There are plenty of practical operational benefits to the new EPOS solutions too. The Hesketh has added a new Barn dining section to the pub, increasing covers from 80 to 120. However, this new dining section cannot physically be seen by hosting staff at the door.
“The host welcoming guests can now see an electronic table plan on the terminal and can send customers through to the Barn or anywhere else in the pub, knowing which tables are free. Because of this, we’re now able to turnaround tables more efficiently,” said James. “We’ve also positioned two terminals on the floor so we can serve customers a lot quicker and a lot more accurately. Instead of handwritten notes that can lead to mistakes and misunderstandings, everything is dispensed through the system. Drinks and desserts cannot be served until they have gone through the till.”
“What’s more, we can alleviate the pressure at the short bar because drink orders for diners are sent through the system. One bar person concentrating solely on drinks can rattle through the tickets a lot faster than you can by taking verbal orders and handling cash and change.”
The entire experience at the popular pub has been enhanced by the GS EPOS solution, even as capacity at the Hesketh has increased. The pub used to do 350 meals on a Sunday but can now easily accommodate just over 500.
“With the alterations and the new EPOS solution, we have been able to separate the drinkers at the bar from the diners, who don’t have to push past the lads with their pints at the bar to order. It’s a better, female-friendly experience,” says James, who is equally impressed by the impact of the system with staff.
“Thanks to GS, our staff are happy because they are getting better tips because they’re giving customers a better service. I’m happier because they’re more inclined to upsell using an efficient interface. And the stock takers are happy because we have much better control of our stock.
“Overall, we are able to give customers a high quality eating experience in traditional, comfortable surroundings. However, behind the scenes, we’re very high tech and modern. The kitchen equipment is the best available, similarly with the EPOS.”
ENDS
Issued on behalf of GS Systems, 119/121 Buxton Road, Stockport, Cheshire, SK2 6LR (www.gs-systems.co.uk)
For further information or high resolution images please contact Andrew Field (m: 07850 933350 a.field@gs-systems.co.uk)
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