Answers to common questions about running, modernising, and growing food businesses. Get clarity on operational challenges, finance, marketing, and legal essentials.


  1. What is the best way to modernise my restaurant kitchen?
    Modernisation involves streamlining workflows, upgrading equipment, and implementing operational audits to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
  2. How can I improve my menu profitability?
    Menu engineering and development focused on high-margin items and customer preferences will boost profit while maintaining quality.
  3. What licenses do I need to open a bar or restaurant in the UK or Spain?
    Licensing requirements vary by location but typically include food hygiene, alcohol licenses, and health & safety certifications.
  4. How can a hospitality consultant help my business grow?
    Consultants provide expertise in business development, finance & strategy, market research, and operational efficiency to optimise your business.
  5. What are the key factors to consider before selling my food business?
    Valuation, exit strategy, operational audits, and ensuring the business is financially attractive to buyers are essential.
  6. How do I create a successful social media marketing strategy?
    Identify your target audience, create engaging content, and use analytics to refine campaigns for maximum impact.
  7. What is involved in a restaurant operational audit?
    An in-depth review of kitchen processes, staff performance, supply chain management, and financial controls to identify improvement areas.
  8. How can I scale my fast casual restaurant effectively?
    Focus on concept creation, brand consistency, operational systems, and market research to support expansion.
  9. What are the costs involved in opening a new café or takeaway?
    Costs include property rental, equipment, licenses, staff wages, marketing, and initial inventory, varying by location and size.
  10. How do I attract investment for my hospitality business?
    Prepare a comprehensive investor pack showcasing market research, financial forecasts, concept uniqueness, and growth potential.
  11. What is the role of brand design in a food business?
    Strong brand design creates identity, builds customer loyalty, and differentiates you in a competitive market.
  12. How can I reduce food waste and control costs?
    Menu engineering, portion control, supplier negotiation, and staff training are key strategies to minimise waste.
  13. What digital tools can help run my restaurant more efficiently?
    POS systems, inventory management software, social media marketing platforms, and scheduling tools improve operational control.
  14. How important is market research in hospitality?
    Critical for understanding customer demographics, competitor analysis, and identifying new opportunities for growth.
  15. What is menu engineering and why does it matter?
    Menu engineering analyses item popularity and profitability to optimise offerings and maximise revenue.
  16. How can I use finance & strategy to improve my food business?
    Budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning enable sustainable growth and informed decision-making.
  17. What should I consider when developing a new food concept?
    Customer needs, brand identity, location, menu development, and operational feasibility are vital.
  18. How can contract chef services benefit my kitchen operations?
    They provide flexible, skilled culinary support, helping maintain quality and consistency during peak periods or transitions.
  19. What social media platforms are best for restaurant marketing?
    Instagram and Facebook are essential, with LinkedIn and TikTok offering niche marketing opportunities.
  20. How do I prepare my food business for sale?
    Ensure clean financials, documented systems, operational audits, and strong branding to maximise business value.