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23. October 2024, 2 min read

“What’s Cooking” in October? The best restaurant industry news

Author: Jake Juba
Restaurant industry

All the leaves are brown, and the sky is… full of restaurant industry news! That can only mean one thing: it’s time for some fresh updates. So, what’s cooking this October? 

One thing’s for certain—some guests are still skipping out on their bills! In the UK, “Dash & Dine” is back and more aggressive than ever—you won’t believe the stories. This issue ties in with the wellbeing of hospitality professionals, highlighted in a must-listen podcast. We’ll wrap up with a big question: is fine dining in hotels making a comeback? (It certainly looks like it!) 

The starter: Restaurant staff injured in alleged ‘dine and dash’

So, here’s a wild story from the UK: a couple allegedly skipped out on their bill, and things got a little out of hand at the restaurant. Instead of just walking out, they decided to take it up a notch, leading to an attack on the staff. The manager shared that her team ended up with some injuries, and a 39-year-old woman has been arrested on charges including common assault. Crazy right? 

Why it’s worth a read? 

This article shines a spotlight on the real risks restaurant staff face when dealing with bill disputes—because who knew dinner could turn into a scene straight out of a thriller? It’s a reminder that we need solid safety measures and training in place (even if this particular case is a bit extreme!). 

Read the full article here

But wait, there’s more! The “dash & dine” trend is a financial headache for the restaurant industry. So, how do you keep your tables secure? Simple: consider implementing prepayment options. 

If you’re finding guests pulling a disappearing act when the check arrives, reach out—we’ve got your back and can help you regain control! 

Main course: Advocating for hospitality industry mental health and wellbeing 

Main course: Advocating for hospitality industry mental health and wellbeing 

This week’s main course comes straight from Tripleseat’s podcast, Two Chicks, Three Seats

Hosts Kate and Rachel sit down with Steve Palmer, founder of Indigo Road Hospitality Group and co-founder of Ben’s Friends, a non-profit supporting hospitality workers dealing with substance abuse. Their conversation dives into the mental health challenges faced by industry professionals, especially regarding substance use. 

Why it’s worth a read? 

This podcast emphasises the crucial need for a positive workplace culture and provides actionable tips for management to create supportive environments. This is a must-listen for any restaurant owner or manager looking to prioritise employee wellbeing. 

Dive into this important podcast now

Dessert: Culture trends 2025: Will hotel fine-dining see a renaissance? 

A report from Expedia Group predicts that hotel dining is set to soar in 2025. It turns out travelers are not just booking rooms but also dinner reservations, as hotels revamp their restaurants with top chefs and tasty seasonal menus. 

Why it’s worth a read? 

With a growing interest in hotel dining, it’s a great opportunity to learn how hotels are partnering with quality dining experiences. 

Read more about this latest trend

So, whether you’re navigating the challenges of dine-and-dashers, prioritising your team’s mental health, or exploring the exciting future of hotel dining, there’s plenty to chew on this October. Check out our blog for more restaurant industry news, guides, and interviews!