The first in a series of Webinars took place last week, gathering industry experts to brainstorm and discuss the ongoing challenges and future of hospitality, and the importance of being prepared.
Joining host Scott Barber, chief commercial officer at Quantaco, were Marcello Colosimo of Momento Hospitality, the NTIA’s Justine Baker, and AVC’s Rachel Checinski.
The program focused on three key themes: maintaining engagement with teams, mitigating the growing skills gap, and considerations for a safe return to work.
Panellists spoke of a variety of methods for maintaining a connection with employees during lockdown, from trivia nights to free meals to simply picking up the phone. One aspect in common was ensuring ongoing honest and transparent communication.
Labour shortages, wage crunch and skills shortages were also discussed. The guests broached Government assistance in the form of the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements scheme, and seizing this time to invest in training and future leaders.
“We need to remember what a fun and rewarding industry this is and we need be building confidence in our future and the unique opportunities that exist in hospitality,” said Baker.
Discussion on the opening of venues and a safe return to work found more questions than answers, amid rolling restrictions and rising case numbers, but the panel was unanimous in agreeing that getting ‘match fit’ needs to start again immediately.
Colosimo touted his group’s use of Learn Hospo – an industry-specific platform that provides over 200 online courses covering everything from cocktail making to mindfulness.
“Mental Health is an area of great concern for our industry, so having access to high-quality content aimed to help those struggling with lockdowns and isolation is essential,” said the Momento CEO.
Following the discussion Quantaco, business advisory service and host of the series, has partnered with Learn Hospo to help grow the skills base across the industry.
The companies are offering free access to the Learn Hospo platform to everyone, for the remainder of lockdown. Available HERE.
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The next in the Webinar series will take place 2pm AEST Wednesday, 1 September.
Barber will be joined by: Simon Johnston, Feros Group COO; Jen Russell, MD of W. Short Hospitality; and Matt Hunt, Founder of Geronimo.
The panel will be talking about the post-lockdown customer, and if operators should anticipate changes in their behaviour, trends and expectations.
For more information and to secure your free, interactive place, register at Quantaco Webinar Series.
