Bean There, Done That!

Flipping Cafes, Crafting Success: How Giorgina Venzin Shapes the Hospitality Scene

In this inspiring episode of Bean There Done That, Phillip Di Bella sits down with Giorgina Venzin, a dynamic hospitality entrepreneur, to discuss her journey from washing dishes at age 13 to owning multiple successful cafes by her early 30s. Giorgina shares valuable insights into the hard work, sacrifices, and creative vision that fuel her success. From her first venture, Pawpaw Café, to her innovative approach of flipping cafes like houses, Giorgina’s story reveals how passion, family support, and perseverance create the foundation for a thriving career in hospitality. Whether you're an aspiring business owner or simply love a good success story, this episode offers essential lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the importance of starting with strong foundations.Key Topics and Themes:Early Foundations: Giorgina’s first job washing dishes at her father’s restaurant and how it shaped her work ethic.Entrepreneurial Journey: The launch of Pawpaw Café and how Giorgina adapted her father’s struggling venue into a profitable business.Learning on the Job: Insights into running lean operations, dealing with early challenges like customer reviews, and leveraging social media for growth.Creative Business Strategies: The innovative "cafe flipping" approach and how Giorgina expanded her business.Personal Growth: Giorgina’s evolving definition of success, focusing on holistic work-life balance and personal fulfilment.Mentorship and Leadership: The importance of building a supportive team, mentoring the next generation, and staying true to her values.About Our Guest:Giorgina Venzin is a Brisbane-based hospitality entrepreneur and the owner of multiple successful cafes, including the well-known Pawpaw Café. Starting her career at age 13 washing dishes at her father’s restaurant, Giorgina quickly developed a love for hospitality. Her innovative approach to business—flipping cafes like houses—has made her a respected figure in the industry. Giorgina is passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders, fostering team culture, and maintaining a work-life balance that includes time for creativity and personal fulfilment.Key Takeaways:Start Early, Learn Everything: Giorgina’s story underscores the importance of starting with humble beginnings and learning the ropes from the ground up.Adapt and Innovate: From flipping cafes to using social media to grow her brand, Giorgina demonstrates the value of being adaptable and creative in business.Mentorship Matters: Giorgina attributes much of her success to the mentorship and support of her father, and she now seeks to mentor her own staff.Stay Relevant: Giorgina stresses the need for continuous innovation, whether through menu changes or unique marketing strategies, to keep her businesses thriving.Work-Life Balance: A more holistic approach to success includes personal growth, health, and making time for family and friends.Links and Resources:Pawpaw CaféDarvella PatisserieThe Coffee CommuneTime-Stamped Key Points:00:00 – Introduction to Bean There Done That and guest Giorgina Venzin.01:40 – Giorgina's early days working at her father’s restaurant at age 13.03:20 – The value of independence and the foundation of Giorgina’s work ethic.05:20 – Pawpaw Café: How it all started and her father’s role in enabling her first venture.07:20 – Managing early challenges: Running lean, dealing with customer feedback, and growing the brand through social media.09:40 – Expanding the business: Giorgina’s journey to owning multiple cafes.11:40 – Creativity in cafe flipping: The adrenaline behind the expansion.13:00 – The importance of building unique identities for each venue and staying relevant.16:20 – Building emotional engagement with customers and staff through storytelling.18:40 – The value of hospitality as a foundational career, especially for young people.22:00 – Giorgina's personal approach to leadership, mentoring staff, and fostering a positive work culture.25:20 – Future vision: Training staff, creating a long-term impact, and possibly shifting to an educator role.Don’t miss out on this episode filled with invaluable lessons from Giorgina Venzin. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply curious about the inner workings of successful cafes, this conversation offers rich insights. Produced by The Podcast Boss.

From Dishwashing to a Burger Empire: The Success Story of Matthew Rollo

In this episode, Phillip Di Bella sits down with Matthew Rollo, the founder of Hashtag Burgers and Waffles, to explore his inspiring journey in the hospitality industry. Starting as a dishwasher at 14, Matthew’s career grew from washing dishes to managing his own multi-location burger business. The conversation covers the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, his strategic approach to growing the business, and his insights on leadership, work ethic, and creating a customer-driven brand.Key Topics and Themes:The Long Road to Success: Matthew shares his start in hospitality, beginning with dishwashing at 14 and working through various roles before launching Hashtag Burgers and Waffles.Strategic Growth: Matthew explains the importance of learning the business inside-out before expanding, and how he carefully scaled from one store to four, with a focus on systems and technology.Resilience in the Face of Challenges: The discussion highlights the challenges of opening his first store just before the COVID-19 pandemic and how he turned this obstacle into an opportunity.Customer and Employee Engagement: Matthew talks about building a menu that sparks memories for customers and fostering a positive, involved work culture.The Power of Planning: Emphasising the importance of planning, Matthew offers advice for young entrepreneurs on the necessity of patience, strategy, and resilience in building a successful business.About Our Guest:Matthew Rollo is the founder of Hashtag Burgers and Waffles, a Brisbane-based burger chain known for its creative menu and strong connection with customers. Starting his career as a dishwasher at 14, Matthew worked his way through the hospitality industry, gaining a wealth of experience before launching his own business. Today, Hashtag Burgers and Waffles operates four locations, with plans for further expansion through franchising.Key Takeaways:Success is built over time: Matthew stresses that success doesn’t happen overnight. His story is a testament to patience, learning, and persistence.Focus on systems: Developing strong systems and embracing technology has been crucial to scaling his business.Embrace failure: Matthew encourages entrepreneurs to learn from their mistakes and use them to grow.Customer connection: Building a menu with nostalgic touches and actively engaging with customers can create strong emotional ties to a brand.Support and mentorship: Having the right mentors and seeking guidance can significantly aid business growth.Links and Resources:Hashtag Burgers and WafflesThe Coffee CommuneRestokeTime-Stamped Key Points:[00:00:00] – Introduction to the episode and the new "Success Stories" series.[00:01:00] – Phillip introduces Matthew and shares the vision behind the series.[00:02:00] – Matthew begins by discussing his start in hospitality at 14, dishwashing, and working in various roles to learn the industry.[00:05:00] – Key takeaway: "Not an overnight success"—the importance of learning and growing from the ground up.[00:07:00] – Matthew shares how he started Hashtag Burgers with just $2,000 and strategic thinking.[00:09:00] – Lessons from failures and how to adapt and pivot in business.[00:12:00] – Creating a customer-centred menu with nostalgic elements like the Milo shake.[00:16:00] – Opening the first store just before COVID-19 and using his experience with delivery platforms to survive the lockdown.[00:19:00] – The importance of systems and technology in scaling up to four stores.[00:22:00] – Matthew’s future plans: Expanding Hashtag Burgers and Waffles to 20 stores and exploring franchising.[00:25:00] – Advice for potential franchisees: The key values required are attitude and a willingness to learn.[00:29:00] – Discussion about the importance of work ethic, personal development, and learning how to balance work and life effectively.[00:34:00] – Matthew’s final advice: "Enjoy what you do and push through the challenges."Don’t miss this engaging episode! Tune in to hear Matthew Rollo’s inspiring story of growth, grit, and strategy, and learn how you too can turn a passion into a thriving business. Produced by The Podcast Boss.

Selling Sustainability in Cafes. With Michael McFarlane

In this episode of Bean There Done That, host Phil Di Bella is joined by Michael McFarlane, Head of Sales and Marketing at Huskee, to discuss sustainability in the cafe industry. They explore the role of reusable cups, misconceptions about sustainability, and how cafes can implement environmentally friendly practices. Michael shares insights from his 14 years in hospitality, offering practical tips on everything from menu creation to waste reduction and the importance of choosing sustainable suppliers.Key Topics and Themes:Sustainability challenges and solutions in cafesThe role of reusable cups in reducing single-use wasteThe importance of material choice and consumer preferencesMisconceptions around sustainability in the coffee industryExploring reusable cup programs like HuskeeSwapPractical tips for cafes to promote sustainabilityThe future of single-use plastic bans and their impact on cafesAbout Our Guest:Michael McFarlane is the Head of Sales and Marketing at Huskee, a company leading the way in sustainable coffee solutions. With over 14 years of experience in hospitality and retail, Michael is passionate about coffee culture, innovation, and reducing waste in cafes through reusable systems like HuskeeSwap. He has helped scale an Australian startup to global prominence, promoting sustainability in the cafe industry.Takeaways:Reusable Cups Matter: Whether plastic or stainless steel, reusable cups are a great first step towards sustainability.Start Small: Promote reusables, engage with customers about their preferences, and experiment with different sustainable practices.Sustainability Can Be Profitable: Reducing waste and choosing the right suppliers can lower costs and attract environmentally conscious customers.Links and Resources:Huskee – Learn more about Huskee’s reusable cup systems and sustainability initiatives.The Coffee Commune – Join the coffee community and explore their sustainability strategies.Time-Stamped Key Points:[00:01:05] – Introduction to sustainability in cafes and Michael’s background in coffee culture and innovation.[00:02:16] – Michael explains the first steps cafes can take towards sustainability, starting with BYO and reusable cups.[00:03:16] – Discussion on material choice and how different reusable cups cater to personal preferences and enhance customer experiences.[00:06:57] – Phil and Michael break down the importance of cup size, from 6oz to 16oz, and how it affects pricing and consumer choice.[00:10:15] – Should cafes charge less for customers bringing reusable cups? Michael offers his take on this contentious topic.[00:12:45] – Introduction to HuskeeSwap, a reusable cup system designed to streamline cafe operations and reduce waste.[00:14:22] – Insights into countries leading the way in sustainability and upcoming single-use bans in Australia.[00:17:06] – How cafes can use sustainability initiatives like HuskeeSwap to attract more customers and reduce operational costs.[00:20:00] – The importance of choosing suppliers with strong ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) strategies.Don’t miss this insightful episode on how cafes can embrace sustainability and improve their bottom line. Listen now on your favourite podcast platform and start making your cafe more sustainable today!Produced by The Podcast Boss.

Leverage Your Leadership to stay competitive in the Digital Age. With Marija Hall

In this episode of Bean There, Done That!, host Phil Di Bella welcomes Marija Hall, Director of Momentous Australia, to discuss the evolving landscape of leadership. Marija shares her passion for developing great leaders and helping teams thrive in the digital age. The conversation covers the shift from traditional leadership styles to more inclusive, coaching-focused approaches, and the importance of resilience and adaptability in today's rapidly changing environment. Marija offers practical tips for improving performance and productivity, emphasising the need for clear expectations, continuous learning, and fostering a sense of belonging among team members.Key Topics and ThemesEvolution of Leadership StylesImportance of Customer-Centric LeadershipImpact of Digital Transformation on LeadershipStrategies for Employee Engagement and RetentionRole of Innovation and Problem-Solving in Modern LeadershipBuilding Resilience and Accountability in TeamsBalancing Personal, Professional, and Family Goals for Holistic LeadershipAbout Our GuestMarija Hall is the Director of Momentous Australia, where she delivers bespoke programs to help leaders gain the capabilities to lead confidently in the digital age. With a background in professional services and various industries, Marija is dedicated to fostering great leadership, team performance, and business success.TakeawaysLeadership Evolution: The shift from traditional, hierarchical leadership to more inclusive, coaching-focused approaches is crucial in today's digital age.Customer-Centric Strategy: Effective leadership starts with a deep understanding of customer needs and aligning employee engagement with delivering exceptional customer experiences.Resilience and Accountability: Leaders must foster resilience and accountability within their teams, encouraging continuous improvement and personal responsibility.Balancing Goals: Successful leaders balance personal, professional, and family goals, recognising the holistic nature of effective leadership.Links and ResourcesMomentous AustraliaGallup Strengths TestYoung Presidents OrganizationSimon Sinek on ResilienceTime-Stamped Key Points00:00:00 - Introduction by MC00:00:36 - Phil Di Bella introduces Marija Hall00:01:07 - Marija shares her background and passion for leadership00:03:13 - Differences between current and past leadership styles00:04:48 - Impact of digital transformation on leadership00:07:39 - Challenges of attracting and retaining talent in the hospitality industry00:09:13 - Tips for improving employee engagement and performance00:12:31 - Importance of creating a sense of belonging in teams00:16:55 - Future trends in leadership and organizational structure00:20:43 - Enhancing performance and productivity through clear expectations and difficult conversations00:24:16 - Role of structure, mindset, and skillset in successful leadership00:28:00 - Available programs and resources for leadership development00:29:53 - Characteristics of an ideal leader00:31:06 - Importance of resilience in leadership00:36:40 - Balancing personal, professional, and family goals in leadershipDon’t miss out on this insightful discussion about modern leadership! Listen to the full episode onyour podcast app. For more resources and to connect with Marija Hall, visit Momentous Australia.Produced by The Podcast Boss. #Leadership #DigitalAge #EmployeeEngagement #Resilience #Innovation #TeamBuilding #Hospitality #Coaching #Productivity

How to Retain your Top Performers. With Lauren Karan

In this episode of Bean There, Done That!, host Phil Di Bella dives deep into the crucial topic of retaining top talent with special guest Lauren Karan. Lauren, an expert in recruitment and organisational coaching, shares her extensive knowledge on creating effective hiring strategies and fostering a culture of retention. They explore the importance of understanding your business's pain points, aligning hiring strategies with growth goals, and continuously building a pipeline of potential hires. Lauren emphasises the significance of leadership, inclusivity, and emotional engagement in retaining staff and offers practical tips on interviewing and onboarding processes. Whether you're in hospitality or any other industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build and maintain a high-performing team.Key Topics and Themes:The importance of retaining top talent versus merely recruitingStrategies for proactive hiring and avoiding desperation in recruitmentCreating a robust and effective recruitment processUtilising behavioural questions and psychometric testing in interviewsThe role of leadership and culture in employee retentionPractical tips for interviewing and selecting the right candidatesThe value of involving your team in hiring decisionsBalancing competitive wages with performance expectationsBuilding a sense of belonging and emotional engagement in your teamRecognising when and how to promote within your organisationTakeaways:Effective recruitment processes are crucial for improving retention outcomes.Always be on the lookout for great talent and maintain a continuous hiring mindset.Leadership and culture are key drivers of employee retention; make your team feel valued and heard.Behavioural questions in interviews help reveal true capabilities and fit.Competitive wages should be balanced with clear performance expectations and a strong value proposition.Involve your team in hiring decisions to foster a sense of ownership and belonging.Promote from within by identifying and nurturing employees who take initiative and show leadership potential.Time-Stamped Key Points:00:05 - Introduction to the main topic: retaining top talent01:30 - Phil introduces guest Lauren Karan and her background03:45 - The importance of linking hiring strategy with business goals08:20 - Tips for hiring in a competitive and transient market15:10 - The significance of behavioural interviewing and asking for specific examples22:30 - The role of leadership and culture in retaining employees28:45 - Real-life examples of effective customer service and team dynamics34:50 - Balancing wages with performance and commercial viability41:20 - Identifying and promoting top performers within your team50:10 - Strategies for continuous recruitment and building a talent pipeline57:00 - Closing thoughts and the importance of simple, actionable stepsAbout Our Guest:Lauren Karan is a specialist in technical and engineering recruitment within the building and civil construction market. With over 12 years of experience, Lauren holds a degree in psychology, accreditation in behavioural interviewing and psychometric testing, and certification as an organisational coach. Her hands-on, strategic approach to recruitment has set her apart in the industry, making her a sought-after expert in finding and retaining top talent.Links and Resources:Book: "Belonging" by Owen EastwoodBook: "Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect" by Will GuidaraPodcast: Building Doors by Lauren KaranDon't miss this insightful episode with Lauren Karan as we uncover the secrets to retaining top talent and building a high-performing team. Listen now on your favourite podcast platform and accelerate your potential with The Coffee Commune.Produced by The Podcast Boss. For more information, visit thepodcastboss.com.#TalentRetention, #RecruitmentStrategies, #EmployeeEngagement, #Leadership, #WorkCulture, #HospitalityIndustry, #BusinessGrowth, #CoffeeCommune, #PhilDiBella, #LaurenCurran, #BeanThereDoneThat

A Practical Approach to IR for Cafes. With Nathan Forward

In this episode of Bean There, Done That, host Phil Di Bella is joined by Nathan Forward, a Human Resources Business Partner at People Squared. With over 15 years of experience in HR and IR compliance, Nathan shares his expertise on navigating industrial relations, ensuring compliance, and fostering a positive workplace culture. The discussion covers key legislative changes, the importance of proactive HR management, and practical tips for creating a thriving business environment.Key Topics and Themes:The importance of staying proactive in compliance and HR managementUnderstanding and adapting to changes in industrial relations lawsStrategies for fostering a positive workplace cultureBalancing employee needs with business viabilityPractical tips for effective human resource managementTakeaways:Ignorance is not a defence: Stay informed and proactive about compliance and legislation changes.Foster a culture of belonging: Ensure your employees feel valued, safe, and engaged.Use HR systems: Implement tools like FoundYou for compliance and efficient HR management.Be proactive: Address issues early and consult with experts to avoid costly reactive measures.Communicate effectively: Regularly engage with your team to understand their needs and motivations.About Our Guest:Nathan Forward is a Human Resources Business Partner at PeopleSquared, with over 15 years of experience in HR and industrial relations. He has worked with the Fair Work Ombudsman and the Queensland Government, providing deep insights into compliance, legislation, and effective human resource management. Nathan's expertise helps businesses navigate complex regulatory environments and foster positive workplace cultures.Links and Resources:The Coffee CommunePeopleSquaredFair Work OmbudsmanFoundYou HR SystemTime-Stamped Key Points:00:00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and episode overview00:00:20 – Phil Di Bella introduces the show's sponsor, The Coffee Commune00:00:40 – Phil welcomes listeners and introduces the episode's theme on compliance and HR00:01:00 – Introduction of Nathan Forward, HR Business Partner at PeopleSquared00:01:20 – Nathan's background and expertise in HR and industrial relations00:01:40 – Nathan discusses his experience with government compliance and investigations00:02:00 – The importance of understanding legislative changes and their impact00:03:00 – Why ignorance is not a defence in compliance issues00:04:20 – Simplifying complex legislation for business owners00:05:00 – Strategies for creating compliant and attractive wage packages00:06:00 – The evolving needs and expectations of the workforce00:07:00 – Importance of communication and understanding employee motivations00:08:40 – Key changes in industrial relations and their impact on businesses00:09:00 – Understanding the "right to disconnect" for employees00:10:00 – Visa changes and their impact on the hospitality industry00:11:00 – Balancing business viability with employee needs00:13:00 – Upcoming changes in wage theft legislation00:14:20 – Complexity of wage systems in hospitality and managing different pay rates00:17:00 – Discussion on passing on wage costs to customers00:20:40 – Importance of proactive HR and compliance management00:21:00 – Human resource management: fostering a culture of belonging and performance00:24:00 – Practical tips for managing human resources effectively00:27:00 – Importance of structure and documentation in businesses00:28:40 – Building a positive workplace culture through engagement and communication00:30:00 – Nathan's top tips for creating a great workplace environment00:33:40 – Importance of utilising HR systems and consulting with experts00:35:00 – Closing thoughts and importance of proactive management00:36:00 – Wrap-up and final message from Phil Di BellaDon’t miss out on this insightful episode of "Bean There, Done That." Listen now on your favourite podcast platform and visit The Coffee Commune for more resources to help you accelerate your business potential. Stay proactive, engage with your team, and ensure compliance to build a successful and sustainable business.Produced by The Podcast Boss

The Importance of Workplace Psychology in Hospitality. With Kelly Maniatis.

In this episode of Bean There Done That, Phil Di Bella dives into the intricate world of workplace psychology with expert Kelly Maniatis. Discover how effective leadership can transform your business and unlock your team's potential.Key Topics and Themes:Importance of workplace psychologyStrategies for leading people, not managing tasksCommon leadership pitfalls and how to avoid themEffective communication and engagement with employeesHandling transient workforce in hospitalityGenerational differences and how to manage themPhil Di Bella is joined by Kelly Maniatis, an organisational psychology expert, to discuss the importance of understanding and implementing workplace psychology. Kelly shares her extensive experience working with diverse organisations and offers practical advice on leading people effectively. They explore the challenges faced by hospitality business owners, especially in managing transient workforces, and provide actionable strategies to enhance leadership skills, improve employee engagement, and maintain a positive work environment.Time-Stamped Key Points:00:05: Introduction to workplace psychology and Kelly Maniatis10:15: Kelly discusses common leadership mistakes and how to avoid them25:30: Importance of fun in the workplace and its psychological benefits35:00: Effective leadership traits and the impact of authenticity and clarityKelly’s Background:Kelly Maniatis is a seasoned organisational psychologist with over 20 years of experience. She has worked with prestigious organisations such as Aldi and Brisbane Airport Corporation. Kelly also owns a retail business, Superior Fruit, with her husband, providing her with a unique perspective on the intersection of psychology and hospitality.Unique Insights or Takeaways:The significance of leading people rather than managing tasksPractical tips for improving staff retention in transient work environmentsThe benefits of creating a fun and engaging workplace cultureInsights into managing generational differences in the workforceLinks and Resources:Leftfield Co. Website - Explore tools, templates, and free eBooks by Kelly ManiatisKelly Maniatis' Book: The Leadership Difference - Coming soonDon’t miss out on these valuable insights into workplace psychology and effective leadership. subscribe to the show now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform.Produced by The Podcast Boss

Small Business Restructuring and Working with the ATO. With Peter Biazos

In this episode of Bean There Done That!, host Phil Di Bella is joined by Peter Biazos, the founding director of B&T Advisory. Together, they delve into the intricacies of the Small Business Restructure regime introduced by the Liberal government in 2021. This initiative is designed to help businesses manage ATO debt effectively and avoid liquidation. Peter shares his extensive experience in solvency accountancy and provides practical advice on how small businesses can navigate financial difficulties, particularly those exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.Key Topics and Themes:Introduction to the Small Business Restructure regimeEligibility criteria for small business restructuringBenefits of proactive engagement with the ATOSuccess stories and real-life examples of businesses saved through restructuringImportance of paying employees and superannuation firstAdvice for suppliers to protect themselvesThe current economic landscape for small businesses in hospitality and constructionAbout Our Guest:Peter Biazos is the founding director of B&T Advisory with over 25 years of experience in solvency accountancy. He has held numerous senior positions and partnerships and is a registered liquidator. Peter is dedicated to helping businesses avoid insolvency through proactive restructuring and financial management.Takeaways:The Small Business Restructure regime offers a viable path for businesses to manage ATO debt and avoid liquidation.Proactive engagement and compliance with the ATO are crucial for successful debt management.Paying employees and superannuation should always be prioritised.Early consultation with financial advisors can provide more options and better outcomes for struggling businesses.Links and Resources:B&T AdvisoryCoffee CommuneATO Small Business Restructure InformationDon't miss this episode if you're dealing with ATO debt and looking for proactive solutions. Tune in now on [platforms]. For personalised advice, contact Peter at B&T Advisory and join the Coffee Commune for support and resources.Time-Stamped Key Points:[00:00:40] Introduction to the episode and guest, Peter Biazos.[00:01:17] Overview of ATO issues and introduction to the Small Business Restructure.[00:02:00] Peter's background and expertise in insolvency accountancy.[00:02:27] Discussion on the proactive approach to business solvency.[00:02:47] Details on the Small Business Restructure and its setup.[00:03:00] Eligibility requirements: debts under $1 million, superannuation payments, and up-to-date ATO lodgements.[00:04:03] Importance of proactive communication with the ATO.[00:04:40] Breakdown of the restructuring process and associated costs.[00:05:20] Example of a successful restructuring case saving over $100,000.[00:07:20] Voting process and compliance history’s impact on ATO decisions.[00:08:20] Checklist for businesses considering restructuring.[00:11:07] Advice for businesses struggling with financial difficulties.[00:12:12] The importance of personal guarantees for suppliers.[00:13:40] Tips for businesses to manage cash flow and expenses.[00:15:20] Success stories from Peter’s clients.[00:16:17] Advice for suppliers on protecting their interests.[00:18:00] The current economic environment and its impact on small businesses.[00:20:27] The significance of open communication with landlords, suppliers, and staff.[00:21:20] Final advice: early engagement with financial advisors.Produced by The Podcast Boss. For more information, visit thepodcastboss.com.

Mastering Strategies for Financial Management, Efficiency, and Growth in the Hospitality Industry. With Rhian Shellshear

On this episode of "Bean There Done That," industry expert Rhian Shellshear from Italian Gelato Concepts shares his extensive knowledge on business performance and cost optimisation. With over 22 years in the coffee and hospitality sector, Rhian offers practical advice on equipment selection, financial management, and the benefits of comprehensive consultancy services. We explore shared and dark kitchens as innovative solutions for testing business concepts with minimal risk. Learn how collaboration, efficient space utilisation, and strategic planning can drive your business forward in challenging times. Tune in for insights that will help you navigate the current economic landscape and prepare for future growth.Rhian Shellshear is the Commercial Operations Manager at Italian Gelato Concepts, with a career spanning over two decades. He has worked with brands like Soul Breads, Adriano Zumbo, and Couch at Howard Smith Wharves, and has represented Australia in international competitions, get in touch with Rhian Shellshear on LinkedInKey Takeaways:Understand ROI when investing in equipment.Manage CapEx costs effectively.Explore shared and dark kitchens for testing business concepts.Leverage collaboration to expand business opportunities.Adapt to changing market conditions and consumer behaviours.Highlights:"Working on your business, not just in it, is crucial for growth.""The right equipment ensures quality and better ROI.""Shared kitchens minimise financial risk for new ventures.""Collaboration opens new revenue streams."Timestamps:[00:02:00] Business Performance and Cost Optimisation: Managing costs and capital expenditures.[00:08:10] Benefits of Shared and Dark Kitchens: Low-risk environments for testing business ideas.[00:16:10] Strategies for Business Efficiency and Growth: Scaling down physical footprint and adjusting operating hours.[00:20:57] Collaboration and Growth in Business: Preparing for major events and building strong partnerships.[00:30:07] Coffee Commune Thank You Message: Appreciating the insights from Rhian and the Coffee Commune team.Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and visit our website at The Coffee Commune for more insights. Follow us on social media for the latest updates and episodes.Links and Resources:The Coffee Commune Business Performance PaperSilver ChefTurbine Sunshine CoastFood and Agribusiness Network (FAN)Facebook: The Coffee CommuneLinkedIn: The Coffee CommuneQuestions? Email us at hello@coffeecommune.com.au or visit our contact page.#CoffeeCommune #BusinessPerformance #HospitalityIndustry #Gelato #SharedKitchens #BusinessConsultancy #CapExCosts

POS Power: The Secret Ingredient to Thriving Cafe Businesses. With Jacob Kelly

Could your cafe's profitability be just a tech upgrade away? Join me, Phil DiBella, alongside Jacob Kelly, General Manager at Innovators Direct, as we serve up a brew of knowledge on advancing your cafe's operations through technology. This episode steeps with insights into how bespoke POS systems can be the secret ingredient to enhancing your menu, team performance, and overall business efficiency. We're not just talking about the jingle of the cash register but also the symphony of data and strategy that can turn a good cafe into a community cornerstone.Do you feel like you're juggling orders, payments, and loyalty programs without a safety net? We discuss the move towards integrated tech solutions that act as a digital barista, managing the hectic rush of the hospitality industry with fines and ease. With Jacob's expertise, we explore how interconnected systems, especially in payment solutions and online ordering, can save you more than just a few headaches – they're an investment poised to streamline your operations and amplify your business growth. And for those doubting the power of loyalty, let us introduce you to platforms like Byte, where targeted promotions meet customer convenience to brew a stronger bond with your patrons.Peering into the future, we're not just predicting the next coffee trend – we're looking at the evolution of POS technology itself. The forthcoming omni-channel loyalty systems are setting the stage for a new era in customer engagement, one where every sip and snack counts towards a more personalised and rewarding cafe experience. As Jacob shares how Innovators Direct's unwavering support is helping their extensive client base thrive, we ensure this episode is more than just talk – it's filled with actionable advice that can truly transform your cafe into the go-to spot for tech-savvy coffee lovers. So, sit back, pour yourself a cup, and let us guide you through the digital transformation of the hospitality sector.Highlights(00:02) Technology in Hospitality Industry InnovationThis chapter, I sit down with Jacob Kelly from Innovators Direct to discuss the pivotal role of technology in enhancing the skillset of cafe operators. We address the findings of a recent study highlighting that operational know-how, not red tape, is the primary challenge facing the cafe industry in Australia. Jacob emphasises the importance of using technology, like bespoke point-of-sale (POS) systems, to collect data, analyse business performance, and develop strategies for menu optimization and team management. We examine how understanding and implementing the right technological solutions can significantly impact the efficiency and profitability of a cafe.(07:38) Integrated Technology Solutions for EfficiencyThis chapter highlights the importance of integrated technological solutions in streamlining business operations and reducing workload. We explore the risks of non-integrated systems and the value of integration, particularly in payment solutions and online ordering. We emphasise looking at technology investments not just in terms of cost but in terms of the efficiencies and savings they can bring, especially in labour. Additionally, we touch on the benefits of using data to run a business effectively and the role of technology in gathering that data to inform strategy and customer engagement. Loyalty programs and their implementation through platforms like Byte are also discussed, including their cost-effectiveness and potential to increase customer spending through targeted promotions and convenience.(17:45) Importance of Business Performance MetricsThis chapter examines the importance of tracking various metrics in business performance, with a focus on the often-overlooked average transaction value. We discuss how small increases in this figure can significantly impact a business's top and bottom lines, emphasising the need for strategies like upselling to enhance revenue. Additionally, we consider the importance of understanding wages relative to earnings and how technology can assist in optimising labour costs and operating hours for profitability. We also explore the realities of POS system reliability and the misguided allegiances or biases that business owners may have towards certain brands, highlighting the inevitability of technological issues regardless of a company's size or investment.(24:31) Future Innovations in POS TechnologyThis chapter we explore the latest trends and technological innovations in the POS and hospitality industry, focusing on the emergence of omni-channel loyalty systems that integrate POS, FPOS, and online ordering to enhance customer engagement. I highlight the collaborative efforts between companies to offer these advanced services not only to large players like AVC or ALH but also to smaller businesses, enabling them to improve customer service and accrue loyalty points from various ordering methods. With insights from Jacob Kelly of Innovators Direct, we discuss the importance of data analysis and strategic planning for business sustainability and growth, and how his team provides round-the-clock technical support to their now 700-strong client base across the country. I underscore the impact of a robust POS system on business performance, advocating for a proactive approach to adopting new technologies in the hospitality sector.Produced By The Podcast Boss