Taking Stock of Mysteries
Once a year I take inventory. This means that May 31, I ensure that everything is counted for both locations so that the financial reports for the fiscal year reflect “reality”.
The exercise if filled with opportunities to further understand, and fine tune, our operation. It is also a stimulus in other areas, I guess, because it reminded me of the following mystery.
About 50% of our customers pay with credit or debit cards. Of those, probably 25% of the debit card users leave a tip for the Staff. The folks who use charge cards write in a tip about 2% of the time. Admittedly, a few (5% of them?) leave a tip in the form of coins. (Cash payers are definitely the highest tippers).
We have not been able to conclusively determine the reason for this – but it certainly would help us figure out why the Staff only get 1-1/2 to 2% of revenue for their tips.
Theories abound on why this is… let me know what you think and I will reproduce the responses anonymously. I’ll add my own thoughts at that time – or if I don’t get any ideas from our readers.
So, I am off to take stock – but first, to enjoy a slice of French Toast with strawberries, pineapple, banana, cantaloupe, organic yogourt, organic maple syrup and a splash of strawberry sauce on SOMETHING so I can taste the Grand Marnier and lemon in it! (Diabetes be damned)! Of course, I’ll finish with a short latte… Have an equally fine day!