Successful Food Procurement RFP Delivers Exceptional Results Across Clubs

By Allan Forsdick

Food & Consumables Procurement in Clubs & Pubs

In the Club industry, beverage procurement is often meticulously planned and managed through contracts and pour targets. However, food procurement tends to be more arbitrary, often left to the discretion of the Chef or kitchen manager. 

This approach can lead to issues including spiralling food costs, inconsistent quality, and missed opportunities to leverage the Club’s purchasing power.

Streamlining the Procurement Process

To mitigate these risks and enhance the efficiency of food procurement, clubs can implement a structured Request for Proposal (RFP) process. This involves allowing suppliers to bid for the right to supply the Club’s food needs, including greengrocers, butchers, and dry goods suppliers.

Benefits of the RFP Process

The RFP process, when properly managed, offers several benefits:

  1. Transparency. A clear and open process ensures all potential suppliers have an equal opportunity to bid, fostering fair competition. An independent consultancy provides the process with a level of separation from the Club.

  2. Objectivity. Decisions are based on predefined criteria, reducing bias and ensuring the best supplier is chosen based on merit.

  3. Fairness. All suppliers are evaluated on the same standards, ensuring a level playing field.

Action Steps for Clubs

  1. Review current food procurement practices and identify areas for improvement.

  2. Contact Future Food to develop an RFP strategy tailored to your Club’s specific needs.

Client Testimonial
"Future Food's expertise in developing a tailored food and beverage strategy for Vikings Group has been instrumental in our success. Their innovative approach and deep understanding of our membership and community needs have significantly enhanced our catering services across multiple locations.

Future Food's recommendations have not only aligned perfectly with our strategic goals but have also driven tangible results. We've experienced notable growth in our catering outlets and have consistently met our projected profit targets since implementing their strategies. Their comprehensive procurement review was particularly impactful, leveraging group buying power and centralising activities to optimise efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This initiative has streamlined our operations and enhanced our overall profitability.

Future Food has proven to be a valuable partner, dedicated to delivering exceptional service and results. Their commitment to understanding our unique requirements and delivering tailored solutions has made a significant difference in our business. I highly recommend Future Food to any organisation seeking to elevate their food and beverage offerings and drive sustainable growth."

-- Ron Kent, General Manager, Vikings Group

 

Read the Vikings Group Case Study HERE