Monthly Archives: July 2013

Many people think that commercial refrigeration units can be installed, switched on and will run themselves. While this is true, there are a number of things which your restaurant can do which will optimise their refrigeration operations. By organising stock correctly, you will not only have created a system that will enable items to be on hand when you need them, but you will also maximise the efficiency of your equipment. The compressor doesn’t need to work as hard and will therefore last longer. The decrease in work load for the compressor also means that you can save money on your utility bills and overall running costs.

Recently the source of the world’s fish consumption has become an area of scrutiny. With the seafood supply dwindling or, in some cases, fished to extinction, there has been an issue highlighting ways that the public can still enjoy their fish dishes while not affecting the wild fish population. Big names, such as Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and a charity patronised Prince Charles have backed campaigns to either change people’s seafood preferences to fish that are more easily sustainable or highlighted alternative ways for purchasers to buy from more preferable suppliers.

The hygiene and cleanliness of a restaurant should be a main priority for all staff. Commercial kitchens are often the subject of lack of maintenance which results in unsanitary conditions, therefore increased risk of food contamination and may ultimately mean government closure of your restaurant. Cleaning rotas may be in place but not all staff will clean as thoroughly as they should. From all staff member’s first day, the importance of hygiene and thorough cleanliness should be emphasised and training and demonstrations of all cleaning processes should be made a priority. 

The Department of Energy and Climate Change have introduced a new scheme named the Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA). This scheme enables any business paying company tax to claim 100% back on their investments in energy saving equipment in the first year, providing that the equipment purchased is included in the scheme. If a product is listed on the Energy Technology List (ETL) then you will be eligible for the ECA scheme.