FAQs
Who should invest in our consulting services?
Whether you are new to the hospitality industry or a seasoned operator, another set of eyes is always valuable. Our team has the talent, experience and expertise to assist with any and all aspects of your business to ensure revenue growth, exceptional experiences and maximized profits. No matter if you are opening a new concept from scratch or operating one that already exists, Northlands Consulting offers completely customized services to handle projects of any size.
How does the process work?
Once you reach out, you can expect to hear from us within 24 hours. We will set up a free, no-pressure consultation to understand more about you and your business. You will receive a proposal with our recommendations detailing the scope of the project, expected timelines, deliverables and pricing structure. We are happy to take on any project, large or small, so you can pick and choose specifically where we should focus our efforts, all of which will be detailed on a signed agreement.
How much do your services cost?
Each partner and project is unique, with circumstances unknown to us until we meet for an initial consultation. Once we get to know you and the results you are looking for, we will be happy to provide detailed pricing info designed for you. We can work with virtually any budget and bring value to your organization that far exceeds our cost. Once we have an agreement, we will provide detailed invoices every two weeks, as we take pride in the transparency of our pricing model.
When you open a new restaurant with a partner, how long do you stick around?
We are committed to the success of our partners and we know what it takes to open a new restaurant successfully. We will never turn our back on you and will insist on time in the trenches with your team as they integrate the training we have provided. We will stay engaged with you until we have the right people in the right places for your business to thrive and provide follow-up services to ensure a thriving culture takes hold.
Do you recruit and hire staff?
Yes. We offer recruitment services and can absolutely lead searches ranging from a single position need to a new restaurant staff hiring program. We also provide training for your leadership team where customized interview questions and best practices can be implemented so that your own team is prepared to fill any seat with a quality candidate that aligns with your culture.
What can you do to help us navigate COVID-19?
The pandemic has exacerbated the restaurant industry’s notoriously challenging business model. The Independent Restaurant Coalition commissioned a study that shows as many as 80% of current restaurants may close permanently by the end of 2020. Those who do not pivot and ensure both staff and guests feel safe while providing new, convenient opportunities to sell their products will inevitably fail. We offer COVID-specific operating procedures as well as recommendations on sanitation, air quality solutions, new revenue ideas and dozens of other actions you must take now to ensure your restaurant enjoys lasting success.
Do you manage restaurants?
Absolutely! We are a small team committed to the industry as a whole so we are not a long term solution for in-store leadership, but we can operate at an above store level, working closely with your leadership team to establish the culture that will ensure success. Monthly retainer options are available to enlist us as full time operators so that you don’t have to stress about your restaurant day to day.
What is the single most important factor in a restaurant’s success?
There is no answer to this question, and most who do not understand the complexities of the industry fail. It is estimated that 70% of restaurants close within their first three years. Location, menu, ambiance, branding, marketing, customer service, pricing, cost controls and dozens of other factors are at play when operating a successful restaurant. Systems supported by a strong culture are necessary to ensure every detail is accounted for. Use our over 40 years of knowledge and experience to ensure you are not another statistic in the increasingly competitive landscape of the restaurant industry.