Recently a client got in touch asking for help driving ticket sales to an event at their stadium.

Happy to oblige, we sent push notifications to end users' phones - as well as emails to the relevant segment of our database. This is possible because SwipeStation users tick a box to say they’re happy to be contacted for offers and news. In return we keep them engaged by focusing on quality rather than quantity.

Automation vs Human Interaction: what’s best for the catering industry?

Last month it was reported that a new McDonalds restaurant had opened in Texas with no front-facing staff at all. Orders are placed by phone or screen, then collected from an automated area when ready. The only staff in the store are in the kitchens - cooking and preparing the food.

This new store is being heralded as the future and is described as ‘the experience customers want’.

But is that really the case?

The staffing crisis in hospitality has the potential to decimate our industry - and it doesn’t look like it’s going away. If anything it’s getting worse. Just this week, the Office for National Statistics reported that there are a staggering 83% more vacancies available in the hospitality industry.

Working from home has many benefits….but sometimes a change of scenery is needed and I decamp to the local coffee shop. I’m greeted with a smile and made to feel welcome as I settle in.

Being a great procrastinator I have a quick flick through LinkedIn while waiting for my coffee to arrive. The post at the top of my timeline is from an industry professional, and is a picture of a sign in a coffee shop asking customers to respect the staff and be understanding if the wait is longer than ideal. I’ve seen many similar posts - as I’m sure we all have.