This case study explores the transformation of a busy kitchen at a prominent dude ranch.
For the past few seasons, the ranch had experienced a revolving door of chefs, which resulted in poor guest experiences, financial losses, and high turnover. However, a shift towards investing in skilled kitchen talent yielded significant cost savings and enhanced guest satisfaction.
Nestled in a picturesque mountain landscape, this vacation destination ranch has long been a favorite hot spot for guests seeking adventure and relaxation. A key element of the appeal is the dining experience. Guests arrive with high expectations of exceptional food. However, the past few seasons saw a series of independent chefs come and go, leaving both the ranch's reputation and bottom line in jeopardy.
Challenges:
Chef Turnover: Over the previous three to four seasons, the ranch struggled with chef turnover. The demands of the kitchen environment in a high-traffic venue, required a unique skill set. Additionally, the ranch's remoteness and mountain climate mean it's not an ideal fit for everyone.
Guest Expectations: Guests arrive at the ranch with lofty expectations, anticipating outstanding culinary experiences as a significant part of their vacation. The ranch is not convenient to other dining options, making it even more essential that the food on property is exceptional.
Financial Consequences: The revolving door of chefs led to significant financial losses, including food waste, higher labor costs, vendor expenses, and inefficiencies. Some of the previous chefs were not adequately experienced in costings, ordering, negotiating, and managing inventory, compounding the mounting expenses. Attempting to cut costs upfront with DIY hiring solutions ended up being a costly mistake in the long run.
The Extraordinary Solution:
In a bid to break free from this cycle of inconsistency, inefficiency, and disappointments the dude ranch management partnered with the League of Extraordinary Chefs. We are an organization known for sourcing and matching top-tier culinary talent with properties in need of viable solutions. By investing upfront in skilled kitchen talent that's a good fit for their unique property, they have returned to creating memorable dining experiences for their guests.
Results:
Cost Savings: Contrary to the initial concern of higher upfront costs, the ranch experienced substantial savings in various areas. They paid more for kitchen staff but cut 40% off their bottom line by reducing food waste, improving efficiency, and renegotiating vendor terms for better prices on supplies.
Consistency in Guest Experience: The consistent presence of skilled chefs improved the overall guest experience. Guests began raving about the food, attributing it to the ranch's new culinary direction. Five star reviews increased, as did positive comments about the dining options.
BONUS! Boosted Staff Morale & Job Satisfaction: The property offers daily staff meals for the team. With the turnover and turmoil, staff meals took a hit in quality and quantity. The League crafted innovative menus that used extra and leftover ingredients, creating delicious staff meals and in quantities to fill 'em up, without increasing food costs!
This case study underscores the importance of investing in your talent, especially in settings where guest experience is paramount. The traditional approach of hiring local chefs proved to be costly, both in terms of finances and reputation. By opting for a culinary talent matchmaking approach with the League, the destination ranch reaped the benefits of a stable, experienced culinary team.
If you are facing culinary staffing challenges, remember that the right partner can make all the difference. Connect with us to explore how our expert talent can transform your establishment.
About the League of Extraordinary Chefs
The League of Extraordinary Chefs was established in May 2021 when a team of chefs converged upon the 147th running of the Kentucky Derby. Arising out of extreme staffing shortages in the culinary industry, the League was born and has grown to a full roster of highly-vetted and qualified culinary professionals. We offer talent management and placement of extraordinary chefs & FOH hospitality professionals for hotels & resorts, sporting & entertainment events, conventions, top tier restaurants, and vacation ranches. From short-term (3-7+ days) to long-term (6+ months) to permanent placements, let us source the right culinary talent for your needs. #STAFFEXTRAORDINARY