We know there’s often a very small window to create a positive first impression, and as foodservice competition continues to rise, how can restaurants use cleanliness to make their business more appealing? From pest control to odour to consumer perception, dirty floors are something that restaurant operators need to work to eliminate.

As the largest visible surface for customers, it’s crucial to pay attention to the condition of your floors. The same pride must be taken in the cleanliness and hygiene of your restaurant that is taken for the quality of the food on the menu.

A recent webinar from QSR hosted by Marc Ferguson, VP global sales and foodservice director at Kaivac, provides some valuable insight into how cleaner floors can help build your brand and drive more traffic to your restaurant.

Staff buy-in

Every one of your employees is a brand ambassador, so empower your teams to clean and prioritize safety and hygiene.

Often employers get resistance to cleaning from employees for three reasons: the tasks are unappealing, it’s physically demanding, and it’s not the job they were hired for. Restaurant cleaning can also be a morale killer with ineffective practices and antiquated equipment. Focus on processes that remove soil with updated, simple equipment to motivate staff to prioritize cleaning and complete it efficiently, rather than leaving staff unmotivated and frustrated.

Safety and cost

Cleaning effectively makes it a safer environment for your staff and guests. Slip-and-fall accidents can occur when there is dirt and debris or wet floors in a restaurant. From ice melter in the winter to dirt pushed into the corners of the floor to sticky residue from food and beverage spills, your floors need to stay clean to stay safe. While you may need to invest in some updated, higher-level equipment to achieve the results you are looking for, upgraded tools can cut back on labour, saving you money in wages, while upgrading the cleanliness at the restaurant.

Switching out mops and buckets for a more sophisticated system can look like a daunting investment but when you weigh it against the results, it might make sense for the long-term success of your business.

Setting yourself apart from the competition can be accomplished in part by heightened cleanliness and leaving a positive impression that brings guests back. Keeping your floors clean can keep people safe, increase cleanliness and hygiene, and provide elevated guest experiences.