Managing a restaurant or catering business can be challenging as there are many factors to consider. Some of the primary concerns include location, menu options, staff, stock and seasonal availability but how can restaurant storage help?
In the restaurant game, you’ll almost always run out of space and that could cost you in the long run. As your business continues to grow, you will need more room for kitchen equipment, tools, ingredients and for diners. If your kitchen is filled to the brim with products, it’s difficult and potentially hazardous to move around. Another issue is to create room for more dining tables and chairs to increase your capacity and ultimately, your turnover.
From food displays to table napkins, cutlery, crockery, cooking equipment and seasonal decorations, a successful restaurant requires many different supplies. However, what about when you don’t use certain types of items? Where and how should you store them? Remember, “space means money” in the restaurant business and any space used for storage means fewer tables for diners. With that, let’s take a closer look at how restaurant storage can help.
What Can Restaurant Storage Be Used For?
Running a restaurant requires thousands of items; from table settings and decorations to tables, chairs, cooking equipment, utensils and other tools of the trade. In the UK, the average 40-seater restaurant requires a 200 sq ft kitchen to operate effectively but that is not enough if you are storing all the supplies, ingredients, and equipment in the kitchen.
The same applies to a catering business as you also need space for the extra tables, silverware, plates, decorations, and tablecloths. This is where restaurant storage units can make a significant difference. These types of storage units are for both individuals and businesses that require more space in a convent location at an affordable price.
Tips On Using Restaurant Storage
Restaurant owners or managers face various daily challenges with restaurant storage being among the top. Since restaurants and catering businesses run out of storage room very quickly, they need a safe place to store extra tables, chairs, supplies, dishes, glassware and seasonal displays. Here are some practical tips on how to use a restaurant storage unit properly.
Create An Inventory List
The first step in using restaurant storage is to make an inventory list to help you identify what items are inside at any given time. Make it a habit to fill out a new inventory whenever you remove anything from the container. By using an inventory list you’ll determine just how much storage space you’ll need. Besides, you don’t make to make the mistake of renting a space that’s too big as this would be an unnecessary and avoidable expense.
Organise Your Restaurant Storage Unit Like A Pro
Even if you have a storage unit, it doesn’t mean you can put everything in there without properly arranging things. To ensure that similar items are grouped together, put related goods into boxes and label them accordingly. This will make it easier to identify the contents when removing them from storage and avoid wasting time going through hundreds of boxes to find seasonal decorations, for example.
Where applicable and if the facility allows it, you can add shelves to your storage unit to maximise the available space. Using the ceiling means you could store more items as height is your friend, especially in terms of restaurant storage. A great tip is to designate one shelf for each category, such as silverware, kitchen utensils, kitchen equipment, knives and plates, etc.
Choose A Convenient Location
Running a restaurant is already a challenge so why add to the stress by using a storage facility that is miles away from your business? Make sure you choose a facility in a convenient location. So, if your restaurant is based in Bristol, we recommend renting at Space Centre Self Storage Bristol. Not only are our prices among the lowest in the area but our units have drive access while the facilities are in convenient locations near major access roads.
Date And Store Perishables
Before deciding on storing perishables, check with the site manager first as many facilities don’t allow food, except non-perishable goods. The reason is simple; food can quickly go off and attract vermin which is not good for health and safety, to say the least.
While this is the case for most sites, some storage facilities may allow it if the containers are sealed properly. If you are allowed to use the facility, make sure to date all your perishables with ‘Best Before dates’. This will ensure that none of the food in storage goes to waste.
It may seem obvious but if you are planning on using restaurant storage for perishables, always opt for a climate-controlled storage unit. These allow you to monitor and regulate the temperature and humidity inside the unit.
Save Space By Stacking Tables And Chairs
As any restaurant or catering business will tell you, tables and chairs often take up the most space. Instead of just placing them on the ground around your unit, it’s best to disassemble what you can and then stack tables and chairs. While disassembling furniture will help you save space, it will also minimise any accidents and damage resulting from incorrect storage.
Recommended: How To Pack A Storage Unit To Save Space (And Money)
Keeping Excess Supplies And Inventory Safe
A restaurant storage unit can be used to store any excess equipment, chairs, tables or supplies. That includes dishes, flatware and cutlery that can’t be kept at the restaurant. The golden rule is to clean and wrap everything properly before going into self storage. By packing properly, you will greatly reduce the risk of breakages during transit and storage.
Seasonal Restaurant Storage Tips
Many restaurants are seasonal and require outdoor furniture, equipment, mobile bars and even banners. If a restaurant operates with fewer staff during winter compared to summer, a restaurant storage unit can help keep excess items safe until they are needed again.
While that applies to seasons and weather-related storage, Christmas, Easter, Halloween and other holiday decorations also need a safe place when not in use. Avoid cluttering the restaurant’s storeroom or office by renting a storage unit which can also greatly benefit anyone who wants to buy in bulk for added savings.
Can You Store Vehicles In Self Storage?
If you own a catering business, you probably have at least one truck or van for transport but where do you keep it if there’s no space at home or the office? The good news is that most self storage facilities offer either outdoor or enclosed parking for vehicles. While not all facilities operate in the same way, we suggest contacting the self storage facility manager for more information.
Do I Need Restaurant Storage?
Before making a decision, evaluate your business to see whether or not you need a restaurant storage unit. Find out if the facility provides month-to-month contracts so you don’t have to worry about a long-term commitment if your situation changes. At Space Centre, we don’t charge a deposit and you can change your unit to a different size for free, provided the unit in question is available.
If you think you can benefit from a restaurant storage unit, find a facility that meets your requirements best. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when discussing your needs and options with the facility manager. Space Centre already has many different businesses relying on our top quality and affordable storage units.
If you need help finding a restaurant storage solution, our experienced staff at Bristol, Stroud, Gloucester, Cheltenham and Stonehouse are ready to assist in any way they can.