When the weather starts to heat up, business owners start to worry about
how they will keep their customers cool. Outdoor areas can be a huge
liability during the summer months, but with the right tips and tricks,
you can keep your customers comfortable and safe. Below, we will discuss
some of the best ways to beat the heat.
Provide Shade
One of the most important things you can do to keep your customers cool is to provide shade. There is nothing worse for a customer than to be seated outside on a hot day with no shade. If you have an outdoor seating area, make sure that there are plenty of umbrellas or awnings to provide relief from the sun. By doing so, you will help create a cooler environment for your customers to enjoy and feel comfortable in.
Water Misters
Another great way to keep your customers cool is to install misters in your outdoor area. This will help to lower the temperature and provide much-needed relief from the heat. Misters can be a great addition to any outdoor space, and they can make a big difference in keeping your customers comfortable when sitting and eating outdoors.
Use Fans
Fans are perfect to circulate air and keep your customers cool. If you have the ability to do so, invest in some ceiling fans or floor fans to help keep the air moving at your establishment. Not only will this provide extra comfort for your customers, but providing fans can also help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Offer Cool Drinks
Make sure you have plenty of cool drinks on hand for your customers. This includes water, iced tea, lemonade, and anything else that will help them stay hydrated and cool. Encourage your employees to drink plenty of water as well, and consider keeping a cooler stocked with drinks in your outdoor area.
Recommended Dress Code
It is important to make sure your employees are dressed for the weather. This means light, breathable fabrics and clothing that will help them stay cool throughout their shifts. By recommending a dress code at your foodservice establishment, you can help ensure that your employees are comfortable and able to provide the best possible service to your customers.
Host More Night Events
Consider hosting more events during the cooler evening hours. This allows your customers to enjoy your outdoor space without having to worry about the heat of the day. By offering a variety of events and activities, you can ensure that your customers have a great time all summer and during the warmer months.
Avoid Fire Features
If you have a fire feature in your outdoor space, such as a fireplace or a fire pit, avoid using it during the hottest hours of the day. This will only add to the heat, and it can make your outdoor area uncomfortable for your customers. Save the fire for later in the evening when the temperature has cooled down and your customers will be able to enjoy it.
How Hot Is Too Hot To Serve Customers Outdoors?
While we know it’s important to prevent long queues of patrons and having enough space to seat guests, there is a time when it is too hot to seat customers outdoors. According to the Weather Channel, through a survey that was conducted, it was revealed that temperatures from 85 degrees to 100 degrees are too hot to enjoy. Keep in mind, this varies depending on where you're located. If it is too hot to serve customers outside, consider opening the windows or doors to create a cross breeze. This will help to circulate the air and keep your customers cool.
Additionally, you can turn on any fans you have in the area to help
create a cooling effect. If it is still too hot, consider moving your
operations indoors until the temperature has cooled down.
Beat The Heat
It is essential to maintain your customers' cool throughout the hottest moments of the year. With these simple steps, you can create an enjoyable outdoor space that your customers will love. So don't wait, put these tips into action and allow your guests to enjoy the summer and warmer months today.
