The scorching Australian summer is almost upon us, with temperatures soaring as high as 40 degrees in some regions, and let’s not forget about the sticky humidity!

As a savvy hospitality venue owner, it’s crucial to enhance your customer’s dining experience and working conditions for your staff during this season. Here are five straight-forward methods to ensure your customers and staff have a fantastic time.

1. Menu makeover

It’s time to unveil your summer menu and make sure it’s packed with refreshing options. Think smoothies and frappes that can help your customers beat the heat and satisfy their taste buds. Get creative with flavours, from fruity delights to indulgent chocolatey treats. Remember, your drinks can steal the spotlight and elevate your menu.

2. Hydration station

Keeping your customers and staff cool and hydrated is essential. Offering a free and easily accessible water station ensures your customers stays comfortable and hydrated for the duration of their dining experience, increasing the chances of them staying longer at your venue or ordering more food from you. You can even take it up a notch by providing infused water options like lemon water, adding a touch of elegance to your offering.

3. Furry friends

If your venue welcomes furry companions, ensure you have complimentary water bowls available for them. This thoughtful gesture not only keeps our four-legged friends happy but also enhances the overall dining experience for your customers. Embracing inclusivity for pet owners can earn you extra points.

4. Shaded seating

For venues with outdoor seating, providing ample shade can significantly enhance your customer’s dining experience. Large umbrellas not only shield customers from the sun’s harsh rays but also add a charming ambiance to your hospitality space. Consider incorporating fans for a cool breeze, making your outdoor seating area even more inviting.

5. Air conditioning check

A malfunctioning air conditioning system can turn a delightful dining experience into a sweltering ordeal. Ensure your venue maintains a comfortable and cool atmosphere for your customers and staff, especially during the scorching summer months. Regular checks and immediate repairs are essential to prevent discomfort and potential heat-related health issues for both customers and staff.

Prepare for summer storms

Australian summers often bring unexpected weather events, including heavy rain, hail, lightning, and even bushfires. In 2022, there were a staggering 197,000 insurance claims due to storm and flood damage according to the ABS. Protecting your venue from such weather events is crucial.

For insurance solutions tailored to your hospitality business, chat to the team at East West Insurance Brokers. As a locally owned brokerage with a deep understanding of severe weather events, we are dedicated to supporting fellow hospitality owners like you. Connect with us today to explore our wide range of services and discover how we can protect your thriving hospitality venture.

Visit our website at ewib.com.au to learn more about our offerings and how we can become your trusted insurance partner. You can also reach our dedicated insurance advisors directly at 1800 809 132. Let’s join forces to secure the future of your hospitality business!