The pub sector has emerged from the impact of the pandemic and economic downturn facing higher costs and competing for reduced consumer. Even so, pubs still play a vital role in communities.
How are the best operators attracting customers and growing sales?
What are the most appealing menu styles and irresistible drinks, and the key trends in food, drink, and entertainment that pubs need to stay on top of?
Pubs face a tough climb: higher costs, less spending, and fierce competition. However, operators can combat these challenges with RATIONAL's iCombi Pro combi-steamer and the iVario Pro multifunctional advanced bratt pan. These cooking systems unlock diverse menus, consistent quality, flexibility of menu choice and faster service.
While pubs are primarily known for their beverages, successful operators are expanding their offerings. RATIONAL, a leading manufacturer of combi steamer iCombi Pro and the advanced multifunctional brat pan – iVario Pro, are growing popularity in commercial kitchens and have shown success in many establishments.
Mike and Jacqui Down are the owners of the Volunteer Inn in Ottery St Mary, Devon. They have run this traditional pub since 2012 and were looking for ways to expand the output of their kitchen for the past few years. Early in 2021 they installed the RATIONAL cooking systems, subsequently doubling the amount of business they do, as they can cook in larger volumes and have more variety as their cooking times have been reduced.
Owner, Mike Down says, “We’re able to serve more customers a greater variety with fewer staff – it’s been a significant investment, but we knew it was important to make.”
At Oakman Inns, multiple award-winning pub company with restaurants & hotels, Executive Chef Ross Pike demand kitchens with cutting-edge technology. “When chefs are looking for new jobs the first thing, they want to see is the kitchen. What’s in there? What are they going to be using every day? Especially younger chefs coming through now; they’re so used to using iPads, they want to see that on a piece of cooking equipment as well.” Ross continues to say, “When you’re really cooking at a high level, once you trust your equipment you know you don’t have to worry about it.”
Embracing Rational modern technology cooking systems optimises kitchens, reducing costs and food waste. This allows pubs like Volunteers Inn, Oakman’s, and others to offer competitive pricing and higher staff satisfaction.
Rational cooking systems excel at catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences efficiently. They offer precise temperature and environment control, allowing for perfect preparation of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options alongside traditional dishes. This versatility combined with their ability to handle larger volumes quickly makes them ideal for pubs seeking to expand their menus and cater to broader audiences without compromising quality, speed or flavour transfer.
Pubs need to keep up with changing tastes, offering modern twists and catering to diverse diets. Rational cooking systems helps them do this by offering appliances that cook both classic and trendy dishes perfectly, quickly, and efficiently. They also help pubs save money through smart features and reduce waste, all while ensuring consistent quality. With Rational, pubs can adapt, thrive, and keep customers coming back for more.
Every business operator wants to make a conscious effort to be eco-friendly. RATIONAL cooking systems helps to reduce a kitchen's carbon footprint. Both iVario and the iCombi Pro are not only efficient but will minimise waste and energy use, helping pub owners to be more eco-friendly and save significant money.
Connected Cooking the digital kitchen management solution from RATIONAL offers remote monitoring and control capabilities, recipe management an enables chef to monitor, control and document all HACCP data digitally allowing chefs and kitchen managers to keep an eye on cooking processes and adjust if needed. These features enhance kitchen management and ensures consistent quality and transparency even when the chef is not physically present.
All these benefits contribute to an improved overall consumer experience within pubs and bars. Customers can expect consistently high-quality meals, shorter wait times, and a broader selection of dishes to choose from.
